Greenfield Reconnaissance Report - MA Heritage Landscapes ...

Without permanent protection of this land underthe Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR)program, development pressure is a threat tokeeping this land open and in agricultural use,especially given current economic conditions. Itis important for the town to advocate that thisarea remain as an agricultural district given itsimportance to the community. Among itsimportant values are its historic significance inthe development of Greenfield, preservedhistoric homes, the scenic views it providesFarmland in the Meadowsfrom the road as well as for long-range viewsfrom the Mohawk Trail and Poet Seat Tower, its impact on the local and regional economy,supply of farm products for area residents and businesses, and the provision of wildlife habitat onits open fields.Opportunities:• The Meadows is a significant resource to the town, containing multiple important valuesto the community including active agricultural land, wildlife habitat, and scenic views.• This area is the most rural area in Greenfield, providing a scenic landscape to balancedowntown and densely populated residential neighborhoods.• Fresh, local produce is available from local farmers that if purchased by local andregional consumers will increase access to healthy food, limit transporation costs, andreduce emissions associated with transporting produce from other areas of the country.Issues:• Residential development pressure is a threat to this area for land that is not protected.• Land in the Chapter 61 program is not permanently protected, so if it comes on themarket to be converted to another use and the City of Greenfield does not exercise itsright of first refusal, this land could be developed.• Long-term sustainability of many small, family farms is a challenge with high productioncosts and ongoing maintenance needs for farm infrastructure and equipment.• Historic houses in this area have been well preserved, but as turnover occurs with a newgeneration of owners, knowledge may be lost about the significance of these homes andthe maintenance needed to preserve original architectural features.Massachusetts Heritage Landscape Inventory Program 27Greenfield Reconnaissance Report