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Chester County Press

Dinniman announces $175,000 for Open Space in Lower Oxford

10/29/2014 08:30PM ● By Lev

State Sen. Andrew Dinniman announced last week that the Natural Lands Trust will receive $175,000 in state grant funding for the acquisition of approximately 108 acres of open space in Lower Oxford Township.

The funds will go toward the acquisition and conservation of the land located along the Octoraro Reservoir and Bethel Road for watershed, wetlands and habitat protection, as well as passive recreation.

“It is important that we continue to invest in preserving our open spaces and natural places and in making them more accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” Dinniman said. “This project will help preserve our natural treasures and benefit local residents and families from throughout the region by increasing outdoor recreational opportunities.”

The funds come through the Community Conservation Partnership Grant Program, which is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. Funding is made possible through several programs including the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund and the Environmental Stewardship Fund.

The Lower Oxford project is part of more than $33 million in total grants awarded to 219 conservation and recreation projects statewide. They include 25 land acquisition projects that will conserve 7,400 acres, 107 park projects, 12 river recreation and conservation projects and 41 trail projects that will result in more than 39 miles of new trails.