Open Space
Map of percent public access open space by HUC-14 in the Raritan Basin
Open space provides a myriad of enhancements to quality of life in the Raritan. These spaces are often vegetated and minimally developed, providing many of the same benefits as canopy cover such as species habitat, carbon sequestration, temperature modification, oxygen generation and air purification. Open space can also store floodwater or filter runoff to enhance water quality. Extensive literature points to the mental and physical health benefits that access to open space provides to people living near open space or using it for recreation. Open space provides opportunities for physical activity, reducing obesity and reducing stress. Parks and open space provide economic benefits as well. Proximity to parks and open space can enhance property values and tourists visiting an area to utilize open space often contribute to the local economy.
Public open space (land held in fee or easement) comprises 20% of Raritan basin – though less than half of that is open access with access most problematic in the heavily populated Lower Raritan region.