Sen. Eldridge, Rep. Sena, and Rep. Cataldo Announce $500,000 Open Space Grant to Preserve Agricultural Gateway and Open Space Wetherbee Woods in Acton
State grant provides opportunity for Acton residents to protect open space along Route 2 and Great Road
Acton, MA – Senator Jamie Eldridge, Representative Dan Sena, and Representative Simon Cataldo are proud to announce the preservation of Acton’s Agricultural Gateway through a $500,000 LAND (Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity) Grant awarded by the Healey-Driscoll Administration. This funding marks a vital step in protecting critical habitats and enhancing the town’s flood resilience, ensuring that Acton’s natural resources are preserved for future generations.
The grant will support the conservation of sensitive ecosystems, including wetlands and vernal pools, which are crucial for local wildlife and natural water filtration. In addition, this funding will provide essential flood protection along Nashoba Brook, a key waterway in the region. The property also expands a network of over 315 acres of protected land, strengthening wildlife corridors and contributing to environmental resilience. Importantly, the preserved land abuts the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, a cherished community asset that connects residents to recreational activities and historical features.
“I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for securing this funding, which will help Acton protect critical natural habitats and enhance our town’s flood resilience,” said Senator Eldridge, “This grant means so much to the community, ensuring that their natural resources, like Nashoba Brook and its surrounding wildlife, are preserved for future generations to enjoy. It’s a big win for both conservation and recreation in Acton, and I am proud to see that these efforts move forward.”
If town decides to protect the land at Town Meeting, the newly conserved property will enhance Acton’s broader landscape of protected lands, linking vital ecosystems with recreational spaces. Adjacent to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, this seamless green space promotes ecological health while providing residents with scenic opportunities for walking, biking, and outdoor activities.
“I’m happy to see this funding from the Healey-Driscoll Administration help with flood resiliency and protection of natural habitats,” said State Representative Dan Sena. “The grant will help preserve natural habitats for years to come, and I am so excited to see this in our very own community.”
“The LAND grant not only underscores ours and the Administration’s commitment to preserving Acton’s natural resources but also ensures that future generations will benefit from a healthier, more sustainable environment,” said State Representative Simon Cataldo. “Together, we are taking meaningful steps to safeguard our landscapes, support biodiversity, and protect our community from the impacts of flooding.”
"The Acton Conservation Trust is thrilled by this news,” said Susan Mitchell-Hardt, President of Acton Conservation Trust, “Protecting the Agricultural Gateway to Acton and the Nashoba Brook greenbelt has been on our radar for years. Protecting this parcel is even more important now in creating an unfragmented greenbelt, accessible to all by the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.”
This project is part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration's broader initiative, which has allocated $27.8 million in grants to support land conservation across Massachusetts, emphasizing climate resilience, environmental justice, and safeguarding natural resources. The LAND Grant Program, established in 1961, is designed to assist municipalities like Acton in acquiring land for the protection of natural resources and passive outdoor recreation.
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