Open Space Institute

The Open Space Institute (OSI) protects scenic, natural, and historic landscapes to ensure public enjoyment, conserve habitats, and sustain community character. OSI achieves its goals through land acquisition, conservation easements, regional loan programs, fiscal sponsorship, creative partnerships, and analytical research. OSI has protected more than 100,000 acres through our New York Land Program, by means of direct acquisition and conservation easements in the State of New York. The Conservation Finance Program, since its inception in 2000, OSI has made more than 70 loans and grants for nearly $80 million to protect 1.6 million acres valued at over $530 million. OSI's Research Program influences land use policy and practice through research, communication and training.