Protecting Land to Improve Communities
NeighborSpace requires community partners to actively steward the land it protects
and is fortunate to have a number of community partners who go above and beyond in
carrying out their stewardship duties. This Spring’s Stewardship Salute Award was
given to Tollgate Wyndham Preserve, Inc. at the Gwynn Oak Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
on July 14.
Built in the 1950’s, the Tollgate community in Owings Mills was developed before open space regulations were promulgated and, other than the high school athletic field, public open space has long been in short supply. For many years, however, there was a piece of privately held land adjacent to the community that was a popular place for the adventures of Tollgate’s youngsters. This area, now called Tollgate Wyndham Preserve, has been in its natural state for at least 50 years and has many mature tulip poplars, some with trunks that are more than two feet in diameter, along with a stream and wetland area.Following NeighborSpace’s acquisition of a conservation easement on the seven-acre site, Tollgate Wyndham Preserve, Inc., with the leadership of Dave Fuller, set to work removing trash and debris from the property, making several mulch trails and documenting the area’s flora and fauna. The group wanted the Preserve to provide educational opportunities for students at the nearby Owings Mills Elementary School and passive recreational opportunities for residents of the Tollgate community. By all accounts, many of their goals are being met. A December 2009 article in the Owings Mills Times, noted that “this park gives plants and animals a safe sanctuary from any building development, and allows a relaxing, peaceful place for neighbors to go for nature walks.” It noted, further, that “Dave Fuller oversees the preserve, putting in countless hours and finding ways to enhance the area ... This area has evolved over the years and is a true gem in the neighborhood.”
Dave, we could not do this work without you and so appreciate your leadership and dedication to the cause of preserving open space!
