\n\tThe Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity (LAND) grants will fund land conservation projects in Amherst, Barre, Belchertown, Conway, Granby, Groton, Hopkinton, Middleton, Northampton, Southampton, Southwick, Sudbury<\/strong> and Townsend<\/strong>.<\/p>\n \n\tSince 2007, the Patrick-Murray Administration has conserved more than 100,000 acres of land throughout the Commonwealth. Under this unprecedented effort, more than 16,000 acres in 10 habitat reserves – the most pristine habitats – have been preserved, and more than 150 parks have been created or restored.<\/p>\n \n\tThe 13 grants announced today will help fund a variety of projects – including one in Amherst that will protect one of the few large remaining unprotected parcels along the Mt. Holyoke Range. Other grants will fund projects to connect open space and trail networks, and protect rare species habitat, viewsheds, key water resources, and working farms and forests.<\/p>\n \n\t“With Governor Patrick’s dedication and leadership to land conservation, we’ve achieved some significant results in partnership with municipal officials, private land owners, and land trusts,” said Secretary Sullivan. “Through partnering with communities, we are leveraging further investment in our local economies, preserving open space for public recreation, and protecting vital wetlands and wildlife habitat.”<\/p>\n \n\tThe following communities have been selected to receive LAND grant funding:<\/p>\n \n\t"I am extremely pleased that the Patrick-Murray administration has provided a generous land grant of $400,000 to protect 94 acres of public land in Sudbury,” said Sen. Jamie Eldridge. “The town of Sudbury has always placed a priority on protecting open space and expanding recreational opportunities for its residents, while also working to maintain the biodiversity of all wildlife and plant life in the town."<\/p>\n \n\tSince 1961, EEA's LAND (formerly known as Self Help) awards have helped cities and towns acquire land for conservation and outdoor recreational uses such as hiking, wildlife watching, fishing, hunting, and cross-country skiing. Funding for the grants comes from the Energy and Environment Bond Bill signed by Governor Patrick in 2008. To qualify for the reimbursement grants, communities must fund projects upfront through local, federal, or private sources and the protected open space must be open to the public. Municipalities may use grant funds for outright land purchases or partial interests, such as conservation restrictions, and for associated acquisition costs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" State Awards $3 Million in Grants to Protect 862 Acres of Land in 13 Communities Read full article\n