Open Space Conservation Easement
590 Acres, 1998
Access: Private property. No public access.
Conservation Values: Scenic views, historical resources, open space, riparian corridor, plant and wildlife habitat.
Tom Dargie, the landowner of approximately 600 acres on McCourtney Road wanted to protect his beloved land used as a cattle ranch for many years. So toward the end of his life he worked with the Land Trust to create a legacy for his family. He placed a Conservation Easement on his property to protect the agricultural operation and natural habitat by preventing incompatible uses for future development.
The ranch was purchased in 2008 by Animal Place Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization for abused and discarded farm animals. Rescued cattle, pigs, rabbits, sheep and chickens share the forest, meadows, hills and ponds with indigenous wildlife.