Open Space Conservation Plan

2026 Open Space Conservation Plan Update

The Open Space Conservation Plan (Plan) is a comprehensive statewide plan developed by DEC and the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) that describes current open space conservation goals, actions, tools, resources and programs administered by state and federal agencies and conservation nonprofits. 

Since 1992, the Plan has served as the blueprint for the State's Open Space Program, guiding the investment of land protection funds from the Environmental Protection Fund. As required by law, the Plan is updated periodically, relying heavily on the assistance of nine Regional Advisory Committees (PDF) and other state agencies. DEC and OPRHP are currently in the process of updating the Plan and accompanying Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS) and anticipate the release of a draft Plan for public comment in 2026.

Scoping for Open Space Conservation Plan and Generic Environmental Impact Statement

As part of updating the Plan and accompanying GEIS, a Final Scoping document has been developed that outlines the potential impacts and mitigation measures related to the adoption of the Plan.
 

2016 Open Space Conservation Plan

The last update of the Open Space Conservation Plan was adopted in 2016 and remains in effect until the adoption of the 2026 Plan.

2016 Open Space Conservation Plan Documents

• Open Space Plan Summary (PDF)
• Open Space Plan - without e-Appendices (PDF)
• Open Space Plan Generic Environmental Impact Statement (PDF)
• Governor's letter (PDF)

e-Appendices

1. Regional Advisory Committees' Reports (PDF)
2. Legislative Mandates (PDF)
3. Project Eligibility & Evaluation Process (PDF)
4. NYS Coastal & Estuarine Land Conservation Program Plan (PDF)
5. Forest Legacy Expansions (PDF)
6. Assessment of Public Comments (PDF)
7. List of Public Commenters (PDF)