The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has enlarged its footprint in Sandisfield.

Recently, the DCR acquired 384 acres of private forestland lying along the west side of Route 8 and the Farmington River, just north of New Boston. This acquisition forms a link between the Sandisfield State Forest with the Tolland State Forest across the river to create, according to the DCR, a much larger protected property that "strengthens wildlife connectivity, preserves critical natural resources, and increases opportunities for public access and outdoor recreation."

In a press release, DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle said, "The acquisition represents an important investment in both environmental conservation and public enjoyment. By protecting the land, the state is helping preserve biodiversity, improve climate resilience, safeguard water resources, and ensure future generations can continue to experience and enjoy the region's natural beauty."

The newly acquired parcel lies within the Berkshire Wildlife Linkage, a region identified by The Nature Conservancy as one of the most intact forest ecosystems in southern New England. The area serves as a critical habitat and migration corridor for wildlife including black bears, moose, bobcats, deer, mink, and wild turkey.

What the acquisition does not provide for is habitat for humans and it very likely will reduce Sandisfield's real estate tax income. The privately owned 470 acres with one house was located at 159 North. Main Steet (of which 384 acres were acquired by the DCR). In a statement, a DCR spokesman declined to identify the owner or the sale price, but the land was listed on Town records as property of Brighenti Nominee Trust with an assessed value of $870,800.

To make up for real estate taxes that will be missing from Sandisfield's coffers, the spokesman reported that the land "will be added to the town's inventory of state-owned lands. From these properties, the town receives annual PILOT payments (or payments in lieu of taxes) from the state to help offset changes in tax revenue. Payments are administered by the state Department of Revenue and subject to appropriation by the Legislature."

As for the real estate taxes that will be missing from Sandisfield's coffers, the spokesman said that the land "will be added to the town's inventory of state-owned lands. From these properties, the town receives annual PILOT payments (or payments in lieu of taxes) from the state to help offset changes in tax revenue. Payments are administered by the state Department of Revenue and subject to appropriation by the Legislature."

The acquisition was completed through DCR's Land Protection Program, which focuses on preserving lands with significant ecological, cultural, and recreational value. The heavily forested property includes stands of sugar maple, hemlock, birch, and ash trees and is located within the Farmington River watershed, an area considered a potential future water supply source for Hartford, Connecticut.

The project also supports Massachusetts' broader conservation goals of protecting 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030 and 40 percent by 2050.