Preserve Metrics

Advance the protection and stewardship of open space, farmland, and natural and cultural features to realize economic, ecological, and quality of life benefits.

Metric 1 — Protected Open Space

Track the percentage of permanently protected open space within the county, including farmland, nature preserves and parks.

Metric Results

In 2024, the amount of protected open space increased by 2,592 acres, which is consistent with the past six years, when increases typically ranged from 2,000 to 3,000 acres.

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Metric 2 — Open Space Connectivity

Monitor protected open space within the conservation corridors.

Metric Results

In 2024, the amount of protected open spaces located within connectivity corridors increased by 276 acres. This is somewhat higher than in the past five years, when increases typically ranged from between 100 and 200 acres.

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Metric 3 — Viable and Protected Farmland

Track the percentage of viable farmland that is eligible for an agricultural conservation easement and has been protected from development.

Metric Results

In 2024, the amount of viable farmland decreased by 141 acres, which is less than in most of the past five years when it ranged from 1,000 to 2,000 acres. This loss was mostly due to development. The increase in protected farmland was 4,739, which is more than in most past years when it ranged from 1,000 to 2,000 acres. This farmland was protected by county and private easement programs, some of which permit fields and pasture to eventually be rewilded. Thus, some of these farmlands may become natural areas at some future date.

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