Who we are:
The Open Space Committee is an advisory body that was established by Town Meeting (pdf-warrant article-28kb) in May, 2005 to carry forward the recommendations of the Shelburne Open Space and Recreation plan (pdf-OS goals-72kb).  The Committee includes members appointed by the Selectboard for 3-year terms, and a representative appointed for one-year terms from each of the Agricultural Commission, Conservation Commission, Planning Board and Recreation Committee.

The Committee works with the Selectboard, Town Boards, other local, regional and state officials, regional farm and conservation advocacy organizations, members of the business community, landowners, farmers, and citizens on issues relative to open space preservation in Shelburne.

What we do:
The Open Space Committee carries out the action plan (pdf-5yr action plan-72kb) mandated by the Town through the Open Space and Recreation Plan adopted in 2004 by the Town. Activities include:

• Working to ensure that Shelburne sustains its small town environment characterized by general peace and quiet, clean air and water, safety from crime and vandalism, and maintains its rural character outside of Shelburne Falls while supporting infrastructure of the village;
• Working to ensure that Shelburne maintains or improves the quality of its air, drinking water, streams and other surfaces waters including the Deerfield River, and maintains and improves the quality of farm and forestlands, scenic views, and wildlife habitat through the conservation of locally important natural and open space resources;
• Working to ensure that Shelburne maintains and improves the quality and accessibility of all its recreational facilities and programming.