Through careful planning and regulation, Shelton strives
to preserve its agricultural and open space properties. A balance of controlled
growth and land preservation gives Shelton its unique character: a vibrant
home for many business opportunities, while retaining a rural character
to ensure a high quality of life for its residents.
Shelton Land Conservation Trust
The
Shelton Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) is a private, non-profit organization
devoted to preserving Shelton open space in its natural state to the extent
possible. Presently the SLCT owns about 350 acres of forest, meadowlands,
streams and swamps. These parcels are as small as one acre and some are
large enough to boast mile long forest trails and scout camps.
Open Space
The
Open Space ordinance was first passed in 1992. It called for an Open Space
Committee and the preservation of 10% of the total land in the City. This
ordinance was revised in 1998 to increase the preservation to 15% of publicly
owned Open Space or approximately 3000 acres. In the past 10 years, since
this ordinance was passed, the Open Space Committee was formed, a Shelton
Open Space Plan was written, and the City has purchased over 600 acres
with another approximately 100 acres through sub-divisions. This brings
the total in Shelton to approximately 1435 acres of Shelton Open Space.
Conservation Commission
The Shelton Conservation Commission consists of seven volunteers who serve
in an advisory position to make recommendations in regard to preservation
of open space and to its use. The Committee determines how development
requests will affect the overall greenbelt plans for the City.
Inland Wetlands Commission
The Commission was established to protect and preserve inland wetlands
and watercourses. The agency strives to minimize wetland disturbance,
prevent pollution and erosion, and protect the Citys potable fresh
water supply. As the land base of the community diminishes, the Commission
provides an orderly process to balance the need for economic growth with
the need to protect the ecology of Sheltons natural resources.
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