Openlands protects the natural and open spaces of northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region to ensure cleaner air and water, protect natural habitats and wildlife, and help balance and enrich our lives.

Openlands knows how important farmland is to our region. Beginning in 1977 with the permanent protection of Garfield Farm—a 1840’s inn & farmstead—Openlands has worked with rural landowners to preserve agricultural landscapes. We also work with farmers to encourage and support their adoption of sustainable farming practices and production of local food. In addition to protecting farmland, Openlands advances sustainable, local food farming in greater Chicago through research, partnerships, and public policy.

Founded in 1963 as a program of the Welfare Council of Metropolitan Chicago, Openlands is one of the oldest metropolitan conservation organizations in the nation and the only such group with a regional scope.