[1] Established in 1974, OSI achieves its goals through land acquisition,[2] fiscal sponsorship,[1] regional loan and grant programs,[3] park and trail improvements,[4] and public policy and advocacy.
[23] OSI aims to connect fragmented landscapes to protect wildlife habitat, expand recreational spaces, and preserve water quality.
[24] OSI collaborates with public entities such as NY State Parks and the Department of Conservation to improve access to open spaces.
[1] With OSI’s financial and legal oversight, these groups are eligible to receive grants and tax-deductible contributions and can focus on their programming and capacity-building.
[1] The participants have ranged from community gardens and land trusts, to environmental educators and promoters of nature-based arts and activities.