National Conservation Group Honors Smart Growth Communities - Brief Article

The Trust for Public Land (TPL), a national land conservation organization, has named seven states and counties as national models of using land conservation as a smart growth strategy. Greenprint Gallery 2000 recognizes these rapidly growing areas as leaders in seeking ways to guide growth and protect valuable natural resources.

Broward County, Florida: voters approved $400 million to buy some of its last remaining open space and convert previously developed areas to parks.

Gallatin County, Montana: a ranching community voted to approve funding for a Purchase of Development Rights program (PDRs).

Gwinnett County, Georgia: where the state and county partnered to protect green space through local financing and state matching funds.

Illinois and Missouri: voters approved funding for the first ever bistate local parks district and its centerpiece- a 40-mile riverside park on both sides of the Mississippi

Ohio: voted to fund conservation and urban revitalization by linking brownfield restoration and protecting suburban greenfields

Westchester County, New York: rapid growth galvanized seven towns to support open space preservation.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts: the Community Preservation

Act married housing, historic preservation, and open space protection.

Sneak Fitness Into Your Day

Find a new hobby -- If your favorite pastime is sedentary, switch to one that is both fun and physical. Pass on decoupage and consider dancing, bird watching while you hike or gardening.