11/15/2025: The Dennis Conservation Land Trust has secured the opportunity to acquire 13.45 acres abutting existing conservation land in Dennis Port.

Imagine: An expanded 61-acre conservation area with the opportunity for miles of new trails by one of the region’s most stunning white-cedar swamps – right in the heart of Dennis Port.

You can help us make this vision a reality.

We must raise $479,000 for closings by February of 2026.

Donations can be made by credit card (below) or by mailing checks to: DCLT; P.O. Box 67; East Dennis, MA 02641.

Why Here? Why Now?

Dennis Port is the fifth most densely populated zip code on Cape Cod and the only village in Dennis without a public nature trail — despite boasting some of the most stunning natural habitats in the region.

This ambitious project will expand the Plashes Conservation Area, creating a 61-acre network of connected conservation lands ideal for public access.

Thanks to the vision of four Dennis Port landowners – the late Natalie Chase, Mary Ann Cravenho, the Clapp Family and the Raymond Family – the Dennis Conservation Land Trust now has this incredible, but fleeting opportunity.

Who Benefits?

This project will benefit us all by:

  • Securing 13.45 acres of land for conservation & public enjoyment
  • Improving health & wellbeing through access to nature
  • Creating outdoor exploration space for kids & families
  • Connecting walking communities & businesses between Rt. 28 and Lower County Rd.
  • Supporting local tourism as a unique natural attraction
  • Strengthening community spirit in Dennis Port

To date, the following Town of Dennis Committees have voted unanimously to endorse our vision.

See our presentation slides here, and for the longer version presented at our 12/10/2025 public meeting, click here.

The Dennis Chamber of Commerce also supports this project.

* Endorsement does not imply approved wetlands permitting. Permit applications will be submitted at a future date.

Unique, Critical Habitat

By acquiring this land, we will carefully monitor and protect its unique habitats and functions:

  • Rare Atlantic white-cedar swamp with old-growth characteristics
  • Mosaic of upland, wet meadow, ponds & vernal pools
  • Rich plant & wildlife diversity
  • Natural flood storage & protection for nearby neighborhoods

Experience the beauty by watching a short video here.

Assisting with our forever stewardship of the properties will be our partners at the Town of Dennis and the Native Land Conservancy.

What's at Stake

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to give Dennis Port a peaceful place to walk, breathe, and connect with nature — a hidden gem just steps from shops, homes, and the shore.

Project Budget

Phase I: Land Acquisition
Purchase and protect the 13.45 acres of land by February 2026 – $479,000

Phase II: Trail Development
Design, permit, and construct 2+ miles of walking trail and boardwalk, opening public access in the next three years – $400,000

Total: $879,000

As a challenge to the local community, a private foundation has pledged a generous 1:1 match for the first $100,000 raised. Double your impact by donating today!