The town of Monson has permanently protected Reimers Road Conservation Area, a 124.9-acre property on Reimers Road, through a conservation restriction agreement now held by Opacum Land Trust.

This agreement ensures that the land will remain forever conserved for open space, wildlife habitat, and passive recreation, strengthening Monson’s commitment to protecting natural resources for future generations.

Reimers Road Conservation Area is just minutes from downtown Monson and features a parking area with a kiosk and a short trail highlighting some of the interesting ledge and boulders found on the property. In the coming months, Opacum Land Trust and the Monson Conservation Commission will develop a longer trail system to highlight the geology and history of the new conservation area. The property’s ecological values include flood protection, mature forest, and habitat for rare species, contributing to regional biodiversity and water quality.

“This was a wonderful collaboration between the Conservation Commission and a landowner that wanted to see their land permanently protected as the forest they had enjoyed for many years. Opacum Land Trust will hold the Conservation Restriction on the property, ensuring it remains protected forever,” said Glenn Colburn, Monson Conservation Commission chairperson and Opacum board member, “This 124.9 acres will be a significant addition to open space in the north end of Monson. Without Opacum’s participation, land protection projects like this would not be possible.”

The property was acquired by Monson earlier this year with Community Preservation Act funding and a Massachusetts state LAND (Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity) grant. By holding the conservation restriction, Opacum ensures that Monson’s newest conservation area will remain protected forever, preventing development and guaranteeing its use for public recreation for generations to come.

“Projects like this show what’s possible when towns and conservation organizations work together,” said Laney Wilder, Opacum Land Trust executive director. “We’re honored to partner with the town to ensure the Reimers Road Conservation Area remains a place for recreation and as wildlife habitat.”
The Reimers Road Conservation Area represents a key link in the town of Monson’s efforts to create a continuous greenbelt of conserved lands in northern Monson. This property is less than a quarter mile from a contiguous block of 960 acres of protected land, bringing them significantly closer to creating a connected greenway and wildlife corridor.
Glenn Colburn, Conservation Commission Chairperson and Opacum board member emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Opacum Land Trust has been a long-time partner in conserving and stewarding conservation parcels in Monson, and the Conservation Commission is pleased to add the Reimers Road Conservation Area to the other permanently protected open space areas in town.”

Opacum Land Trust’s partnership with the town of Monson to support green space began in 2012, with the protection of 163 acres, known as Flynt Quarry Lands. Opacum now works alongside the town to protect five properties totaling 515 acres.