Open Space Land
Aquisition
The Hampshire Woods Parcels
A total of 46 combined acres consisting of forested
woodlands, fields, wetland areas and walking trails. A pristine,
completely natural, undeveloped swath of land that will provide
tranquil, serene surroundings, as well as beautiful scenery for
those who walk its varied and easily traversed trails. By acquiring
this combination of parcels the town will be getting lands that
lie just north of our aquifer protection area, within approximately
1000 feet of two of the town's wells.
In addition to preserving this majestic area simply
to augment protection of our aquifer for the drinking water of
future generations of townspeople, it will also safeguard the
habitat for some of the town's most important wildlife. With over
200 species of biota already documented in the area these parcels
are critical not only to some of Georgetown's more common species
but to some that are state listed as threatened in the Commonwealth.
Finally, if protecting our aquifer and safeguarding
a wildlife habitat aren't reasons enough to purchase this property,
the historic value alone should be enough to compel us to preserve
this area. The remains of Federal City are located here, and archeological
excavations have uncovered artifacts dating back to the 18th century.
A little bit of Georgetown's history resides in these woods.
Although the purchase price is not yet agreed upon
we should keep in mind that the townspeople's contribution to
the CPA funds are matched dollar for dollar annually. The state
EOEA Self-Help grant will be applied for, and if awarded, will
pay for up to 50 percent of our CPA outlay via a reimbursement.
In the end, Georgetown taxpayers' contribution will effectively
be only 25 cents per dollar of the purchase price. With the Self-Help
grant, in addition to the CPA match, the state will be providing
75 percent of the funding.
Click here to see a map of the parcels
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