Open space consists of protected lands of significant value that are conserved in their natural state, restored or improved with appropriate native landscaping to retain a natural or natural-appearing condition, or conserved in quality agriculture.
The benefits of open space include:
Separating or buffering communities to allow them to keep their individual identities
Enhancing community gateways
Conserving natural features and protecting lands of high ecological, scenic or cultural value
Providing visual separation between built areas
Providing places for types of outdoor recreation appropriate to the natural setting
Limiting development on lands that would adversely affect the community in some way
Providing places for local agriculture to continue
Preserving long distance views
Maintaining Erie's rural character and creating corridors for the safe and enjoyable movement of people and animals.