The long term, big picture goals for the Bob O Link Greenspace include creating a conservation greenway plan.

A conservation greenway is a thoughtfully planned corridor of protected land that connects natural areas while supporting both ecological health and community well-being.

4 Key Features of a Conservation Greenway

🍃Core Purpose

Preserve natural habitats

Safeguard and restore natural habitats for future generations by maintaining undeveloped areas where native plants and animals can flourish.

Support biodiversity

Foster a rich variety of plants and animals by creating connected habitats that support wildlife health and resilience. Conservation greenways help sustain pollinators, preserve rare species, and encourage the natural movement and diversity of life across our landscapes.

Improve water quality

Conservation greenways play a vital role in improving water quality by protecting streams and wetlands. By preserving natural vegetation along waterways, greenways help filter out pollutants, reduce sediment and nutrient runoff, and prevent soil erosion. This leads to cleaner water, healthier habitats for aquatic life, and safer water resources for the entire community.

🍃Community Benefits

Recreation access

Conservation greenways provide welcoming spaces for people to enjoy nature up close. These green corridors make it easy for everyone—of all ages and abilities—to connect with nature, recharge, and experience the joy of being outside together.

Health and wellness

Conservation greenways provide serene, natural retreats where people can relax and unwind. Surrounded by greenery, these spaces invite walking, jogging, or quiet moments, helping to relieve stress and support mental well-being. By offering a peaceful escape from daily routines, greenways inspire healthy outdoor activity and make it easy for everyone to enjoy the calming benefits of nature.

Environmental education

Interpretive signs, guided walks, and engaging school programs offer hands-on learning opportunities that deepen understanding of local ecosystems. By connecting people with their environment, conservation greenways inspire stewardship and encourage everyone to play a role in protecting and sustaining the natural world around them.

🍃Conservation Focus

Unlike a typical park or trail, a conservation greenway prioritizes long-term ecological protection.
Development is limited, and stewardship involves:

Native plant restoration

Invasive species control

Light pollution reduction

Community science (like bird migration tracking!)

🍃Strategic Design

Greenways are often linear and connective—linking parks, preserves, neighborhoods, and even regional trail systems.

They can be part of larger conservation networks, helping cities balance growth with sustainability.