Land Preservation

Land Preservation Program

The goal of Plumstead Township's land preservation program is to maintain open space throughout the Township for agriculture, parks and the protection of natural resources.

Funds from three voter-approved bond referendums have allowed the Township to purchase land for these purposes as well as to purchase conservation easements on privately-owned land.

The conservation easement program is the Township's primary vehicle for preserving land, with over 2,800 acres of land preserved through 2011.

Methods used to preserve land by conservation easement vary according to available funding, the property owner's needs, and how the proposed easement fits into the open space goals. The Township strongly encourages easement donations and in most cases will contribute funds towards associated costs, such as a property survey and appraisals.

Easement donations are attractive to many landowners since they can provide substantial Federal tax benefits. The Township can also purchase conservation easements. To maximize preservation funds, the Township gives preference to those interested in bargain sales-purchases below the fair market value. Property under immediate threat of development may also be given priority in the nominating process.

Land Preservation Education and Advisory Committee

The Committee membership will consist of 7 members who are Plumstead Township residents. One member each maybe appointed from the Planning Commission, Environmental Advisory Council, and the Historical Advisory Committee. The remaining members shall be from the public who have an interest in land preservation.

The Committee may call on others, who would be in a non-voting capacity. These advisors would assist the Committee as needed. These would be likely experts and would not have a resident requirement. However, no advisor shall be called upon unless the Board of Supervisors has approved the advisor's fee.

(7) Members
Members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors.

Current members are:

• Chance Worthington - Chairman
• Michael May - Vice Chairman
• James Stark - Secretary
• Gary Talbot
• Kim Troup
• Vacancy
• Vacancy

Meetings:
The Committee the second Thursday of each month. Meetings will be at 7:00 PM in the Township Building. All meetings shall be open to the public.

View the Current Agenda