Open Space Advisory Committee
Preserving Fredon’s rural character through the identification, prioritization, and protection of land for open space, agriculture, and passive recreation.
About
In an effort to preserve Fredon’s rural character, the Open Space Advisory Committee (formerly the Open Space Commission) was formed in the spring of 2006. The Committee’s mission is to identify and prioritize land parcels for preservation, make recommendations to the Township Committee, and develop partnerships with allied conservation organizations.Accordion content
- Identify and prioritize parcels of land for preservation
- Recommend acquisition and preservation strategies to the Township Committee
- Build partnerships with county, state, and nonprofit conservation organizations
- Focus on land that protects agriculture, scenic views, water quality, wildlife habitat, and passive and active recreation
The Committee’s work is supported by the Township’s Open Space Trust, funded through a dedicated Open Space Tax. In 2008, the Township Committee reduced the tax from 2 cents to 1 cent per $100 of assessed home value, and reduced it again to a half-cent in 2009.
Preservation Accomplishments
Several preservation mechanisms are available beyond outright land purchases, many of which keep land under private ownership and control. The Committee’s efforts have contributed to a number of long-term preservation successes in the township.
- 2007:
Acquisition of 35.9 acres now known as Coursen’s Meadows, located across from Lodestar Park. - 2009:
Acquisition of a 16.5-acre parcel adjacent to Lodestar Park, expanding the township’s central recreation area. - County Partnership:
Preservation projects funded largely through Sussex County support, with minimal draw on the Open Space Trust account. - Trail Connectivity:
Preserved parcels provide part of a pathway connecting Lodestar Park to the Paulinskill Valley Trail.
Land Preservation Options
Several preservation mechanisms are available aside from the outright purchase of land. Many of these programs allow the land to remain under private ownership, use, and control while still protecting it for future generations.
Residents considering land preservation, or with questions about the Committee’s work, are encouraged to contact any Committee member or the Township offices directly.
Open Space Membership
The Open Space Advisory Committee is currently being reconfigured as the Township Committee updates membership appointments. A current roster will be posted here once appointments are finalized.
Residents interested in serving on the Committee are encouraged to apply through the Township Clerk’s office.
