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From Left to Right: Commissioner Paul M. Drake and Deputy Director Melonie Marano celebrate Somerset County surpassing 15,000 acres in preserved Open Space land.
Somerset County spans 195,213 acres, populated by a combination of picturesque downtown areas, sweeping mountain ranges, lush farmland, and scenic parks. With our recent purchase in Hillsborough, Somerset County now boasts over 15,000 acres of open space. We encourage you to explore and experience the beauty of Somerset County this summer.
“Somerset County is consistently identified as one of the most desirable places to live in New Jersey, and our dedication to preserving open space is one core reason why,” said Deputy Director Melonie Marano.
Open space is best defined as undeveloped land including forests, grasslands, parks, farms, streams and river corridors, and more, which remain unbuilt in order to support agriculture, forestry, recreational activities, and other vital ecosystem services.
“The motivated County staff who continue to champion this conservation effort does so with one important goal in mind — keeping Somerset County desirable for all — residents, students, senior citizens, visiting tourists, and businesses,” said Commissioner Paul M. Drake.
Sixty years ago, the County’s first plan titled, “Park and Recreational Plan for Somerset County New Jersey,” was prepared by renowned regional planner Russell Van Nest Black. The plan established the very lofty goal of 10,500 acres.
In 2022, our award - winning Open Space Preservation Plan, established a new preservation goal of 24,000 acres — a goal we are well on our way to achieving!
Most notable open space purchases that you may not realize include the 437- acre Neshanic Valley Golf Course, 411- acre Natirar Park, 247- acre Skillman Park, and 359- acre Mountain View Park. The newly acquired Hillsborough Country Club, the largest single open space acquisition in 20 years, now adds 407 acres to the County’s breathtaking 6,000 - acre Sourland Mountain Preserve. Our open spaces provide residents a wide range of leisure opportunities.
Today, we operate five golf courses throughout the County. We oversee specialized facilities including a riding stable, an environmental education center, tennis facilities, pickleball courts, swimming pool, and paddle boating. Our horticulture amenities include a rock outcropping and rare plant garden, an international award - winning rose garden, arboretum, and a sensory and fragrance garden. Many have general use and athletic parks which offer picnic facilities, bike paths, an opportunity for bird watching, hiking, and fishing opportunities.
“As we plan our 250th celebrations, it seems even more important that we continue to think strategically about preserving our spaces for future generations,” said Marano. “Whenever I visit one of our parks or local farms or golf courses, I look around, breathe in the fresh air, and easily remember all the reasons why I will never leave Somerset County.”
To learn more about Somerset County, register for free email alerts at somersetcountynj.gov/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.
About Somerset County
The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.
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