By Marlene McTigue
Capital Region Independent Media
BETHLEHEM – In a bold step toward environmental sustainability and climate resilience, the town of Bethlehem is establishing itself as a leader in open space conservation.
Over the past seven years, the town has protected 693 acres of open space—three times more than in the previous 25 years combined. Thanks to innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and the commitment of local leaders, Bethlehem is setting an example for communities across the state.
“Our goal is simple but essential: to ensure that open spaces, forests and farmlands remain an integral part of Bethlehem’s landscape,” said Town Supervisor David VanLuven. “Development is inevitable, but through strategic planning and collaboration with willing landowners, we can ensure a balance that supports growth while preserving our natural resources.”
COMPREHENSIVE TOOLS FOR CONSERVATION
The foundation of Bethlehem’s success lies in its Farms and Forest Conservation Program, a voluntary initiative that provides landowners with flexible options to protect their property from future development. Participants can donate or sell conservation easements, which permanently preserve land while allowing it to remain in private ownership, or they can sell their development rights to the town.
“No two easements are the same,” explained Open Space Coordinator Lauren Axford. “Each one is tailored to the landowner’s specific situation. We work collaboratively to meet their goals while protecting what makes our community special.”
Landowners who enter into conservation easements also receive property tax reductions.
“The land stays in private ownership, but the rights to develop it are removed,” Axford said, emphasizing that the program respects private property rights while aligning with the town’s broader conservation goals.
The program has been bolstered by the town’s Farms and Forest Capital Reserve Fund, which is supported by budget surpluses. This fund has been critical for both immediate land acquisitions and as a matching tool for state and federal grants.
“For example, we secured $195,000 in federal funds for a community forest project by using this fund as a match,” Axford noted.
LANDMARK PROJECTS
Bethlehem’s conservation efforts have resulted in tangible benefits for the community, including expanded public parks and preserved farmland.
The town’s purchase of 68 acres for the Normans Kill Ravines Park has created a 150-acre natural retreat, while 21 acres were added to Henry Hudson Park to enhance public access to the Hudson River.
Other key projects include a 41-acre conservation easement in North Bethlehem, which preserves scenic fields along Blessing Road, and the Pine Hollow Arboretum, a 20-acre public site managed by a nonprofit organization.
“These projects aren’t just about protecting land—they’re about creating spaces for the community to enjoy,” said VanLuven. “We’ve worked hard to ensure that Bethlehem remains a place where parks, forests and green spaces are part of our shared landscape.”
One of Bethlehem’s most ambitious conservation projects is the Heath Farm Initiative, which encompasses 307 acres of farmland purchased by the town in 2023. The property, currently leased to a local farmer, is envisioned as a hub for sustainable agriculture, community engagement, and educational programming.
“We bought the property with the priority of keeping the land in active agriculture and exploring ways to address broader issues like food security,” Axford said. “This land has such food capacity and potential. It’s exciting to think about how it could support not only local farmers but also the entire community.”
What makes the Heath Farm purchase even more notable is that it was approved by public referendum in 2022, with 62% of residents voting in favor. The referendum’s success underscores that the public strongly supports the town’s conservation goals, according to town leadership.
“The people of Bethlehem believe in these efforts,” VanLuven said. “It’s clear that our community values open space and understands its importance for the future.”
The town has partnered with organizations like the American Farmland Trust and the National Young Farmers Coalition to explore opportunities for young farmers and innovative agricultural practices. The Heath Farm Initiative has also received a $50,000 grant from the Nature Conservancy, which will help fund community outreach and the implementation of a long-term vision for the property.
“There’s so much we can do with this land,” Axford added. “From addressing hunger to creating educational programs, the potential is enormous. And with 307 acres, we can make a real impact.”
SETTING A REGIONAL EXAMPLE
Bethlehem’s achievements in conservation have not gone unnoticed.
“I defy any other neighboring community to come near it,” VanLuven said of the 693 acres the town has protected.
Bethlehem is also one of only two towns in New York state with a full-time open space coordinator, highlighting its commitment to long-term planning and action. The other is another Capital District community, Clifton Park.
The town’s approach stands out for its balance of pragmatism and ambition.
“We’re not stopping development,” VanLuven said. “Instead, we’re giving landowners more options. Our open space programs ensure that landowners can keep their property in private ownership while permanently protecting it from development. It’s about collaboration and respect.”
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
VanLuven’s vision for Bethlehem is one of guided growth and strategic preservation.
“People want to live and work in Bethlehem, so our town is going to grow,” he said. “The question is: How do we guide that growth in a way that supports and enhances the things that make Bethlehem such an attractive place to be?”
For Axford, the work is about creating a legacy.
“A lot of what we’re doing is forward-looking,” she said. “It’s about creating a connection to the land for future generations so they can make sure we don’t lose it. Once land is developed, it’s gone forever.”