Boucher: Protect Connecticut’s Open Space Permanently

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton) released the following statement today re: the Environment Committee consideration of a bill to preserve lands under the control of the Department Of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Department Of Agriculture.

“This important bill will help to protect Connecticut’s open space by permanently preserving state lands of high conservation value. Whatever, the importance of its individual parcels Connecticut’s open space as a whole is a precious and irreplaceable resource. As such, its value should not be subject to constant revision, and it should to be necessary to continually defend this land from being repurposed.

“Over the years, we in Connecticut have become increasingly conscious of the vital role that the environment plays in our quality of life. Open space contributes to public health by supporting a wide variety of low impact recreational activities. It acts a s a bellwether for observing changes in the environment, and offers numerous educational and scientific opportunities. Finally it preserves the ecological richness of Connecticut, its biodiversity, and the natural beauty which attracts would-be residents and creates a salutary environment in which to live and raise a family.

“The state of Connecticut should recognize the permanent value of such a vital resource. This bill will allow Connecticut’s open space program to realize its original intentions, removing any doubt about the state’s commitment toward protecting our environment, and ensuring its preservation for future generations. “