By Janet McMahon
Rapid development—often overdevelopment—is everywhere all the time. Terms like “open space” or “green space” are heard frequently. But what do they really mean, and why are they so vital?
Open or green space broadly refers to undeveloped land or water that remains free from significant building. These areas may include natural habitats, public parks, or privately owned parcels left undeveloped. They can be preserved for many purposes: protecting ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, offering recreational opportunities, or supporting agriculture.
Here in Greenwich, our open spaces provide a welcome refuge for both people and wildlife. According to the 2022 Town of Greenwich Open Space Plan, the town has just 3,981 acres of dedicated open space—out of a total of 30,592 acres. Well-known examples include Tod’s Point, Mianus River Park, and Babcock Preserve. Beyond their beauty, these spaces improve public health by encouraging exercise, reducing stress, supporting mental well-being, fostering community connections, and enhancing the character of our town.
Can you imagine Greenwich without these iconic gems?
Why Open Space Matters
Open spaces are central to Greenwich’s identity. They attract new residents, inspire homeowners to stay, and preserve the unique character of our community. But their value extends far beyond aesthetics.
Open spaces are powerful tools in the fight against climate change. As storms, droughts and heat waves intensify—and rising seas threaten our coastal communities—natural landscapes provide resilience. Forests, meadows, and wetlands act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂ from the atmosphere. According to the USDA, a single large tree absorbs about 5–6 kilograms of CO₂ each year, while a mature oak can produce roughly 274 liters of oxygen per day. Tree cover and natural vegetation also reduce the urban heat island effect through shade and transpiration. Did you know that a single healthy, mature tree can create a cooling effect equivalent to ten room-sized air conditioners running 20 hours a day?
Wetlands and forests also absorb stormwater, mitigate f looding, and replenish groundwater supplies. At the same time, open spaces safeguard biodiversity by providing habitats for countless species. They strengthen ecosystems, ensure cleaner air and water, and create healthier, more sustainable communities.
Greenwich Land Trust’s Role
Greenwich Land Trust (GLT) is proud to permanently protect and steward more than 1,000 acres of open space across 82 preserves that span every corner of town. From tidal marshes along Long Island Sound to meadows, orchards, and backcountry woodlands, GLT properties represent the full ecological diversity of Greenwich.
Several of our preserves are open to the public, including Converse Brook, Byram River, Mueller, and Westfall. We invite you to explore these town treasures—or visit www.gltrust.org to learn more about all of GLT’s preserves.
A Shared Responsibility
GLT is an independent 501(c) (3), separate from the Town of Greenwich and receives no town funding. For 49 years, we have been Greenwich’s oldest and most trusted local land conservation organization, earning national accreditation status in 2012. Acquiring, protecting and stewarding open space forever is no small task and requires dedicated professional staff, a committed Board of Directors, strong community and government partnerships, and ongoing financial support.
By supporting GLT, you are helping to conserve the very landscapes that define Greenwich!
Join Us at Go Wild!
One way you can support GLT’s mission is by attending our largest annual fundraiser and most beloved family event: Go Wild! Family Field Day. Now in its 26th year, Go Wild! will take place on Sunday, October 19, from 2:00–5:30 P.M. at the Greenwich Polo Club.
This much-anticipated celebration will feature live music by Sasco Dead and Jumpin’ Jams, and activities for all ages such as GAGA courts, Soccer with Aldwin, a rock climbing wall, pony rides, a petting zoo, hands-on crafts, the jumbo truck experience, food and beverage trucks, and of course— the iconic Ferris wheel offering breathtaking bird’s-eye views of all of Greenwich’s open spaces!
Patron Tickets include early entry at 1:00 P.M. and admission to an exclusive Movie Night on October 17.
Purchase your tickets today at www.gltrust.org and be part of the movement to protect Greenwich’s open spaces—ensuring they remain part of our community forever while raising awareness of their importance.
Janet McMahon is the Communications Coordinator at Greenwich Land Trust as well as an abutting neighbor of the Land Trust for over 17 years. She has hiked most of Greenwich’s open spaces and hopes to spread awareness about all of the good things Greenwich Land Trust does for the community.
