2012 Cape Ann Guide – Experience Cape Ann…serving Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Rockport. Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.
Issue link: http://capeannguide.epubxp.com/i/68289
Cape Ann Land Conservation S 12 erene estuaries and salt marshes, vernal pools, rocky shorelines, open agricultural fields, granite outcroppings and boulder fields of moraine… Welcome to Cape Ann and Essex County Greenbelt. Founded in 1961, Greenbelt is a non-profit land trust that works collaboratively with land owners to conserve areas of agricultural, ecological and scenic significance within the 34 cities and towns of Essex County. This collection of permanently conserved properties, or natural greenbelts, offers free public access for both recreational and educational opportunities as they relate to our natural history and heritage. With over 250 permanently protected parcels totaling some 15,000 acres, Greenbelt is committed to conserving farmland, wildlife habitat and preserving the scenic landscapes of Essex County. "Keeping Essex County beautiful is a very important part of my life," says long-time Greenbelt volunteer Holly Langer. "We're not all natives, but we have a deep commit- ment, if not a passion, for this incredible place and for building a community of conservation on the North Shore." Greenbelt's dedicated groups of volunteers and outdoor enthusiasts grew up here, work were, walk their dogs, bird- watch, mountain bike and hike or kayak here. They build trails, paint or draw the landscape and enjoy the bounty of locally grown food. Their ongoing involvement in site preparation, signage installation, trail maintenance, the monitoring of such plant and animal species as the majestic Osprey and the restoration of wildlife habitat is truly a labor of love. Most recently, with the support of the City of Gloucester and local business and community members, Greenbelt worked to acquire a 6.5-acre parcel of land which serves as a "gateway" into Thompson Street Reservation. "This project was truly ground breaking; as it represents Gloucester's first use of Community Preservation Funds to advance the City's Open Space Plan," said Mayor Carolyn A. Kirk. "Construction of an off-street gravel parking area will begin in 2012, enhanc- ing public access to this incredible Cape Ann resource. We look forward to an opening celebration for Greenbelt partners and supporters before summer," she continued. To many on the North Shore, Greenbelt is most known for its signature outreach event that connects the iconic landscapes of the region with an active arts community. Each June, the annual Art in the Barn exhibit and sale, now in its 22nd year, brings over 4,000 attendees to Greenbelt's historic Allyn Cox Reservation in Essex. Works in a variety of media - sculpture, painting, pottery, woodcrafts, jewelry and more showcase the talents of over 100 artists. This unique opportu- nity allows those in attendance to leave with an original work Cape Ann Guide 2012 ~ Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport