Land Acquisition For Conservation
PRESERVING OPEN SPACES FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Land acquisition for conservation is a powerful tool for protecting natural landscapes, ensuring wildlife habitats remain intact, and creating beautiful public spaces for generations to enjoy. Open Space STL has a long legacy of acquiring land in the St. Louis region to preserve open spaces and foster outdoor recreation. Our work has contributed to the establishment of parks like Castlewood State Park and other cherished green spaces, allowing residents and visitors to connect with nature and experience the beauty of our region.
TOOLS FOR LAND ACQUISITION
Open Space STL utilizes fee-simple land acquisition to conserve land and safeguard it from development. Through this method, our organization purchases land outright to preserve it in its natural, undeveloped state. This ensures long-term protection and allows us to manage the land for conservation, recreation, and ecological restoration.
GET INVOLVED
If you are a landowner interested in donating or selling land for conservation purposes, Open Space STL welcomes the opportunity to discuss how we can work together. Please fill out this form to contact us and learn more about our Land Transactions Policies and Procedures and how you can leave a lasting conservation legacy.
“...parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” – Wallace Stegner
Together, we can preserve the natural beauty of the St. Louis region and beyond.
HOW LAND ACQUISITION FOR CONSERVATION WORKS
The process of acquiring land for conservation follows a strategic, multi-step approach:
Local and regional conservation experts identify key landscapes for protection – These areas may include critical wildlife habitats, watersheds, forests, or recreational spaces in need of preservation.
Projects are evaluated and prioritized – Opportunities are assessed based on ecological value, community impact, and alignment with regional and national conservation goals.
Funding is allocated – Federal, state, and private funds are secured to support land acquisition efforts.
Land is acquired through fee-simple purchase or conservation easements – Depending on the conservation objectives, land is either purchased outright or protected through voluntary agreements with landowners.
THE BENEFITS OF LAND ACQUISITION FOR CONSERVATION
Conserving land has wide-ranging benefits for the environment, communities, and future generations:
Protects natural resources, wildlife, and open space – Ensures critical ecosystems remain intact, supporting biodiversity and climate resilience.
Provides recreation opportunities – Expands public access to trails, parks, and outdoor activities that improve mental and physical well-being.
Enhances public access to public land – Increases opportunities for families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts to explore and enjoy green spaces.
Allows private owners to continue traditional land-based activities – Ensures that agricultural lands, forests, and other working landscapes remain productive while protecting their ecological value.
WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
“Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.” – Aldo Leopold
By supporting land acquisition for conservation, you are helping to create a legacy of environmental stewardship and outdoor enjoyment. Whether through donation, advocacy, or participation in our initiatives, your involvement makes a lasting impact.
GET INVOLVED
If you are a landowner interested in donating or selling land for conservation purposes, Open Space STL welcomes the opportunity to discuss how we can work together. Please contact us to learn more about our Land Acquisition Transactions Policies and Procedures and how you can leave a lasting conservation legacy.
“...parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” – Wallace Stegner
Together, we can preserve the natural beauty of the St. Louis region and beyond.