Open Space Institute

Founded in 1974, the Open Space Institute (OSI) is a national conservation leader, partnering in the protection of more than 2.5 million acres across the Eastern U.S. OSI protects land for clean drinking water, public recreation, healthy communities, and wildlife habitat. Additionally, the intact forests and floodplains we protect capture and store carbon and protect against extreme weather events. In addition to strategic conservation, OSI is also committed to making protected land [more welcoming](https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/how/park-improvements) to the public; making the outdoors more accessible for all; and, promoting [science-based conservation](https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/how/research) among fellow land trusts and government leaders. OSI is also a leader in advocating for public policies that promote innovative and effective land protection, including securing full and permanent funding for the federal [Land and Water Conservation Fund](https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/news/full-funding-of-land-water-conservation-fund-secured-as-great-american-outdoors-act-is-signed-into-law).