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Conservation Benefits
Land conservation can play an important role in land use planning. Allegheny County continues to lose population while more greenspace is developed causing a series of fiscal, social and environmental concerns. Until a regional planning effort is implemented to curb land consuming sprawl, a community-based land conservation effort can offset this alarming trend. For example, protecting greenspace like Yough Slopes maintains scenic landscapes, habitat and provides convenient recreational opportunities for residents in the area. From an environmental perspective, protecting the hillsides in a natural condition maintains their capacity to absorb rainwater, stabilize steep slopes, buffer noise, and act as a carbon sink purifying our air.
The benefits of land conservation are plentiful…
- Greenspace doesn’t require much in municipal services.
- Studies indicate that property adjacent to dedicated greenspace has a higher market value.
- Protected local natural areas provide habitat and opportunities for outdoor education and passive recreation close to home.