Dear Friends and Neighbors,
For over 25 years, land protection has been the core of Willistown Conservation Trust’s (WCT) mission. Thanks to the generosity of the community and local landowners, and support of partnering organizations and funders, WCT has assisted in the conservation of thousands of acres in the region.
Despite these wonderful conservation success stories, there are pockets of open space, some quite large, that remain unprotected and vulnerable to development. WCT closely monitors these properties and their environmental resources, oftentimes for years, and tries to build relationships with landowners to work towards a conservation outcome – preserving open space for the protection and health of natural resources, and the enjoyment by the greater community.
Earlier this fall, we learned that Kirkwood Farm, a 218 acre parcel in the heart of the Willistown countryside between Providence and Plumsock Roads, surrounded by conserved lands, and a critical component of an established greenway, was to be marketed for sale. Its beauty and special natural resources include rolling hills and grasslands, mature woodlands, and two headwater tributaries to the high quality Ridley Creek. The Farm provides prime habitat for numerous species of wildlife and includes critical areas for declining nesting and migratory birds. It offers respite and visual beauty to the many people who travel the Providence Road corridor and use Plumsock Road for recreational enjoyment.
Although the real estate listing just became public, WCT and other conservation organizations have been working to develop a collaborative strategy to ultimately save this critical property from over-development. It remains a complex process due to several factors including the unusually strong real estate market and intense development pressure. We share this news because we know that you care about the countryside and desire, as we do, to preserve its rich reservoir of natural, scenic and recreational resources that could be lost forever if the property is converted into a multi-lot residential development.
It is our desire to help facilitate a plan that appeals to the owner and also ensures the protection of these natural resources. We will continue to work towards a positive solution and will strive to keep you informed. Meanwhile, please know that we are exceedingly grateful for your support and will work to achieve the best possible conservation outcome for Kirkwood Farm.
Please send this letter to concerned friends, neighbors, and conservationists who might wish to stay informed and learn more about the mission and programs of WCT.
Sincerely,
Kate Etherington
