2011- 12-01-CPC-rpt (Needs Assessment Report)

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Protection, through acquisition or conservation restrictions, of parcels of highest scenic and historic character. Parcels are considered significant if they preserve one or more of the following: • Historic landscapes and the visual relationships between historic buildings and their settings; • The visual character of the Town,particularly of those areas designated as scenic; and/or • Open fields and meadows visible from public roads. Protection, through acquisition or conservation easements, of parcels of highest environmental value. Parcels are considered significant if they preserve one or more of the following: • Wetlands and watershed resources; • Agricultural land; • Greenway connections and wildlife corridors; and/or • Wildlife habitat. Acquisition of appropriate parcels to enhance recreational and educational opportunities of open space. Parcels appropriate for this purpose may include but are not limited to the following: • Trail connections or access to conservation land; • Open spaces near schools, and • Open spaces accessible to people of all ages and abilities. RECOMMENDATIONS • The Town should continue to monitor the status of parcels on its Land Acquisition Planning Report so as to be able to move promptly when such parcels become available for sale or donation to the Town. • Because land acquisitions are expensive, the CPC may consider banking CPA funds designated for open space over the annually required 10% so as to insure some reserves will be available to initiate such purchases. 15