# Westchester Land Trust Completes Major Projects

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/westchester-land-trust-completes-major-projects/
- Published: 2011-05-07T23:41:46-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## New Preservation Wins for Westchester County

The Westchester Land Trust (WLT) continues its mission to protect the region’s natural
beauty and [ecological health](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/11/why-keeping-your-surrounding-wild-is-essential-for-maintaining-a-healthy-ecosystem-for-all/).
The organization recently completed two major conservation projects in North Salem
and Lewisboro. These new easements safeguard farmland and forests from development
while supporting local communities, wildlife, and the environment.

Westchester County faces steady development pressure that threatens open space, 
historic farms, and vital ecosystems. Through partnerships with landowners, local
governments, and community members, WLT works to preserve these valuable landscapes.
The latest projects demonstrate the power of collaborative conservation and the 
benefits of protecting land for future generations.

### Preserving Farmland in North Salem

In North Salem, WLT secured a conservation easement on over 150 acres of active 
farmland. This property includes rolling fields, pastureland, and scenic views that
define the area’s rural character. The easement permanently restricts development,
ensuring the land remains dedicated to farming and open space.

Protecting this farm preserves local food production and maintains the scenic heritage
of North Salem. It also supports soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat
by keeping the land in sustainable agricultural use. By working directly with the
landowners and the Town of North Salem, WLT shows how partnerships can deliver meaningful
conservation outcomes that benefit the entire community.

![Preserved farmland in North Salem with rolling green fields, a line of mature 
trees, and a bright blue sky dotted with white clouds.](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.
com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/0C167D46-BF67-4B34-868E-5BBA385A73CE.png?resize=736%
2C491&quality=50&ssl=1)

Protected farmland in North Salem, Westchester County, showcasing the natural beauty
preserved by the Westchester Land Trust.

### Conserving Forest and Wetlands in Lewisboro

WLT also finalized a conservation easement on over 30 acres of mature woodland in
the town of Lewisboro. This land features diverse forest types, wetlands, and important
wildlife corridors. By protecting it from subdivision or development, WLT helps 
preserve critical habitats for native species and maintain the area’s natural character.

These woodlands contribute to local biodiversity, filter air and water, and provide
scenic green space for residents. Conserving them also strengthens the region’s 
climate resilience by storing carbon and reducing flooding risks. This project builds
on WLT’s broader goal of connecting preserved lands throughout northern Westchester,
creating healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

### Supporting Community, Agriculture, and Nature

The Westchester Land Trust’s latest conservation successes demonstrate its commitment
to protecting what makes the region special. By keeping farmland in production and
forests intact, WLT supports local farmers, safeguards drinking water, and preserves
Westchester’s rural charm.

These projects also offer lasting benefits to everyone in the community. Preserved
lands provide places for recreation, education, and connection with nature. They
help ensure that future generations can enjoy clean air, healthy water, and thriving
wildlife. Through these efforts, WLT works to balance responsible growth with the
need to conserve Westchester’s natural resources.

### A Model for Regional Conservation

As development pressures grow across the region, land conservation becomes even 
more urgent. Westchester Land Trust’s work highlights how communities can protect
working farms and natural areas through creative partnerships and conservation easements.
These tools allow landowners to preserve their property’s legacy while maintaining
its economic value and environmental health.

By permanently safeguarding farmland and forests, WLT helps maintain Westchester’s
identity as a place where nature and community coexist. It also supports broader
environmental goals like fighting climate change, protecting biodiversity, and sustaining
local food systems. With these new projects, WLT continues to lead by example, showing
that conservation is both practical and essential for a sustainable future.

Sources:

 * [Westchester Land Trust Official Website](https://www.westchesterlandtrust.org/)
 * American Farmland Trust: Farmland Protection Strategies