Fifer's Fields Conservation Area

The old farm that now is the Fifer's Fields Conservation Area was in the possession of the Fifer family since the early 1940's. This property in the Borough of Franklin Park is in the center of a portion of the Borough rapidly developing with upscale housing.

Instead of selling her farm to allow more housing to be built, however, the owner decided that the 35-acre property should be retained as open space and available for recreational uses by future generations of area residents. HOLT agreed to accept the donation in 1998 and is developing a local caretakers committee composed primarily of area residents.

The farm pond on the property is a favorite fishing hole for local youngsters, and hunting dogs are trained to retrieve there. Water from the pond spills into a low-lying area that has developed into a diverse wetlands, supporting a variety of birds and amphibians. One area of the farm was devoted to a pine plantation and now boasts mature trees, providing cool shade on a hot day. Other areas retain their old field characteristics, and horses have been allowed to graze there.

Land Steward: If you have any questions concerning use of the property or want to discuss the possibility of a scientific study or visit by a school class, call the Land Steward, Stan Sattinger, through the HOLT office at 264-5354.