Holland Highlands II

In 2007 the Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance announced the acquisition and preservation of 10 acres of land adjacent to property preserved by the land trust in 2005 located in the Highlands of Holland Township. The parcel contains the headwaters of a category one trout production stream and is entirely wooded with mature forest. The back portion of the preserve is uplands with evergreens that provide a link to 97 acres of land preserved in 2005 and now owned by Holland Township. The properties are situated on the southern shoulder of Musconetcong Mountain.

The property was owned by the Kolonia family, long time residents of Holland Township with an appreciation for the township's rural character. The Kolonia family generously donated a portion of the value of the property to the trust by agreeing to sell the property at a value significantly less than what it was appraised for. Robert Kolonia, Sr. said, "I am honoring my parents and grandparents by preserving this land and keeping it in its natural state. There are important water sources on the property which we don't want to pollute or jeopardize. I feel good knowing I am protecting the natural environment that was treasured by my family and ensuring it will be there for our kids and future generations."

To acquire the property, the Hunterdon Land Trust Alliance utilized a grant from the state Green Acres program as well as funds provided through the Hunterdon County Open Space Trust Fund. The property will be owned and managed by the land trust and long term plans include a public access trail for hiking through the woods.

The parcel is in a sensitive watershed area that drains into the Delaware River. "Preserving this land ensures that generations to come in Holland Township will enjoy clean water, scenic views, and a quiet walk in the woods," said Margaret Waldock, executive director of the land trust. "The Kolonia family has demonstrated generosity and a commitment to preservation in preserving their land. We are very happy to have worked with them to add this property to the land we helped preserve two years ago."