West Amwell's Clear Open Space Commitment

It goes without saying that the historical focus of our community has been to reduce or at best to hold the line on property taxes.  When politicians talk about “Investment”, the prudent taxpayer feels for their wallet.  That notwithstanding, one slice of the property tax pie consistently yields spectacular return on investment: Open Space acquisitions.

West Amwell has for over three decades been a leader in preserving key tracts of farmland, woodlands, and similar open spaces.  Working with County and State entities, our Open Space Committee has preserved or protected an astonishing percentage of the land mass of West Amwell. The most recent map of existing open space, conservation easements and related deed restricted land is shown below:

West Amwell Open Space and Conservation Lands - Click on map to expand

Preservation first and foremost keeps our community rural. Open space and woodlands provide a healthy environment for all living beings.

This is especially important given that nearly all residents rely on their own septic systems for waste, and wells for drinking water. Preserving open spaces helps to ensure a potable water supply and provides a safe means to return our wastewater to the ecosystem. Preservation curtails suburban sprawl, keeps agriculture front and center, and provides a vital inheritance for future generations. The increasing prevalence of violent storms impacting the region also highlights the importance of keeping impermeable surfaces such as pavement and parking lots to a minimum. By preserving our farms and forests, storm water runoff can "soak" into the land and recharge our wells.

The West Amwell Open Space Committee has been, and continues to be, comprised of conscientious volunteers with many years of experience in the nuts and bolts of land preservation.  Starting with identifying and ranking the best candidate properties, they work with the landowners, professionals, and outside agencies to negotiate equitable settlement terms for new properties.  Their task also includes overseeing any agreed upon perpetual maintenance – such as for the case of walking trails, posting, hunting parcels, et cetera.

You can learn more about the Township's Open Space efforts by clicking here for the Township's Open Space Committee Page.