プロジェクト概要

The Sandy Cross Forest Preservation Project is a 132-acre project area on a 214-acre property in the Mansfield metro area. The project will create substantial conservation and community benefits including carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and open space protection. A diverse, 85-year forest contained within the project lands features yellow poplar, sugar maple, oak, black cherry, and pine trees.
Preserving these lands is critical. Intact forests of this size are becoming increasingly rare in Richland County due to agricultural development and urban expansion. Surrounding forested land is being rapidly converted into agricultural land and is facing a continued threat of urban expansion from the adjacent Village of Lexington. Prior to the project, existing trees were offered no legal protections; more than 30% of the perimeter has been developed.