HAMILTON — After a rigorous four-month fundraising campaign, Greenbelt recently announced it has raised the $3.7 million needed to permanently protect 66 acres of ecologically significant land at 133 Essex St., adjacent to Chebacco Woods.
A long-standing conservation priority, this acquisition will expand protected lands around Chebacco Woods by more than 20%, safeguarding this regional resource and the many environmental benefits it provides to the community, according to Greenbelt President Chris LaPointe.
“This conservation project truly captured the community’s interest, with nearly 700 individual donors contributing – a record for any Greenbelt land campaign – and generating extraordinary support from across the region,” LaPointe said. “It’s incredibly heartening to see this level of enthusiasm for a project we’re so excited to bring to life.”
In addition to individual contributions, the land campaign received strong grassroots support from a range of community organizations, including Save Chebacco Trails & Watershed, the Chebacco Lake & Watershed Association, and the New England Mountain Biking Association.
Having now successfully met its ambitious Dec. 31 fundraising deadline, Greenbelt will finalize the land acquisition in January. In the months that follow, efforts will focus on mapping the property, improving signage and enhancing trails, with a community celebration planned for later in 2026.
Greenbelt thanks the Rich family for their partnership in conserving this land.
“Having owned the property for more than 67 years, the family’s willingness to work with Greenbelt has helped to ensure the permanent protection of this treasured landscape,” LaPointe said.
Greenbelt works with individuals, families and communities to protect Essex County’s natural landscapes and ecosystems, safeguarding its unique biodiversity and scenic beauty.
By acquiring, stewarding, and advocating for the protection of open spaces, farmlands, forests, and coastal habitats, we play a pivotal role in preserving vital green spaces for current and future generations to enjoy. To date, Greenbelt has completed more than 700 projects and protected more than 22,500 acres of local land.