Today, in honor of Earth Day, the Chenango Greenway Conservancy announces a community fundraising opportunity to protect one of the most iconic landscapes in Norwich, the 110-acre Smith Property on West Hill. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — Today, in honor of Earth Day, the Chenango Greenway Conservancy announces an opportunity to protect one of the most iconic landscapes in Norwich, the 110-acre Smith Property on West Hill.

The historic Smith Farm west and south of Route 10A is known to many residents by its iconic mowed slope, buildings and marching metal elephants. It recently went up for sale, enabling the Chenango Greenway to enter into a purchase agreement.

“Now, thanks to their generosity and vision, the Chenango Greenway has entered into a purchase agreement to permanently conserve the property and make it accessible to the public,” said Chenango Greenway Conservancy Board Member Inez Moutarde.

Moutarde said a grant application is under review by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, but the Conservancy is also seeking $400,000 in grants and contributions from supportive community members to ensure the project moves forward regardless of state funding.

She explained it will create a continuous conservation corridor for wildlife, recreation and learning and will open up a public access point to West Hill, creating new trails and scenic overlooks.