1. Protects Wildlife Habitat

Open space preserves biodiversity by providing plants and animals with a home to thrive—especially important as development, pesticide use, a warming climate, and pollution threaten natural habitats.

2. Protects Our Health and Well-Being

Open spaces safeguard our drinking water and the air we breathe, while access to trails provides recreational opportunities that deliver physical and mental benefits.

3. Builds Resilience to a Warming Climate

Over 400 acres of protected wetlands, woodlands, and meadows help New Canaan withstand storms and droughts by storing carbon, absorbing runoff, and cooling the air.

4. New Canaan Residents Care About Open Space

New Canaan’s natural beauty is a key reason families choose to live here. In the Town’s 2024 survey, residents ranked what makes life special: 

Open space remains central to what residents cherish most.  

Source: The 2024 Plan of Conservation and Development survey

5. Open Space Inspires Education and Conservation Leadership.

Our natural resources provide an opportunity to foster a lasting connection among our community, especially young people, and the environment.