The Economic Benefits of Parks and Open Space

How land conservation helps communities grow smart and protect the bottom line.

This casebook presents data and examples that can help leaders and concerned citizens make the economic case for parks and open space conservation.  Some communities protect open space as a way to guide growth and avert the costs of urban and suburban sprawl.  In others, new parks have invigorated downtown businesses and neighborhood economies. 

Some communities work to conserve economically important landscapes, such as watersheds and farmland, or they preserve open space as a way to attract tourists and new business.  And many communities are learning that conserved open space contributes to the quality of life and community character that supports economic well-being. 

Too many community leaders feel they must choose between economic growth and open space protection.  But no such choice is necesary.  Open space protection is good for a community's health, stabilty, beauty, and quality of life.  It is also good for the bottom line.