A decades-long endeavor to preserve and protect more than 2,000 acres of Lynn Woods has finally come to fruition.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced its partnership with Greenbelt, Essex County’s Land Trust to “permanently preserve the park and ensure it remains an important recreational resource for the region and a supplier of clean water for city residents.”

“At DCR, we have a tremendous opportunity to improve the health and happiness of our residents across Massachusetts by preserving access to beautiful parks around the state like Lynn Woods,” DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo said in a press release. “We are grateful to (Lynn) Mayor (Jared) Nicholson, Greenbelt, and the Friends of Lynn Woods for their partnership in ensuring this remarkable landscape is permanently protected from development and that it will serve as a source of recreation and clean water for the region for generations to come.” 

The City of Lynn and the Lynn Water and Sewer Commission, which own and manage the land, gifted DCR and Greenbelt a conservation restriction on the reservation.

According to the Commonwealth, the partnership will now protect the reservation’s natural, water, and cultural resources for the public and ensure that it continues to serve as an outdoor recreation park for the community.

“In addition to all the benefits of its walking trails and water supplies, Lynn Woods is nature’s air conditioner for the neighborhoods of Lynn,” Greenbelt President Kate Bowditch said in the press release. “Greenbelt’s analysis has identified Lynn Woods as the most valuable ‘urban cooling’ property in all of Essex County, and its permanent protection will mean those benefits will be there for future generations, who may need Lynn Woods even more than we do now.” 

According to the Commonwealth, Lynn Woods Reservation has become a prime place for those in surrounding urban communities who want more open and green space. The reservation faced “threats of development over the years with proposals including a golf course and rerouting Route 95.”

“While progress and development are essential, we must also recognize the intrinsic value of Lynn Woods and the beauty that it contributes to our community,” state Rep. Dan Cahill, whose district includes parts of Lynn, said in the press release. “I believe in striking a balance between growth and preservation. Restricting future development of our public lands is a commitment to safeguarding the natural splendor that defines our region and sustains the well-being of current and future generations.” 

Nicholson called Lynn Woods a treasure in the community, and said that the City is committed to “prioritizing preservation initiatives that support our outdoor recreation spaces.”

“Permanently conserving the Woods ensures that this space will continue to be enjoyed for generations,” Nicholson said.

State Sen. Brendan Crighton, whose district includes Lynn, Lynnfield, Marblehead, Nahant, Saugus and Swampscott, thanked DCR, Greenbelt, and Friends of Lynn Woods for advocating for the reservation’s protection.

“Due to their efforts, Lynn Woods will continue to be a source of recreation and sustainability for generations to come,” Crighton said.