The Spano administration has added about 1975 acres of open space to the county open space since 1998. The 180-acre Hilltop Hanover Farm was purchased in 2003 to preserve open space and to protect drinking water. The farm’s Environmental Resource Center will focus on educating professionals, land-owners and the general public. Best management practices for agriculture and land use will be demonstrated.

Information about non-toxic, organic and sustainable residential landscaping practices and suburban agriculture will be promoted.