Senator Frederick E. Berry (D-Peabody) strongly supported and voted for an open space initiative, which was part of the supplemental budget passed yesterday in the Senate. This initiative would direct 15% of the Commonwealth's surplus funds to the acquisition of open space in Massachusetts, the third most densely populated state in the nation.

"With the increase of land development and urban sprawl, the protection of Massachusetts's open spaces-including our fields, forests, and beaches-has become a very important environmental initiative," said Senator Berry. "I feel that preserving the natural environment in our communities would contribute to a higher quality of life for Massachusetts's citizens. Moreover, our children and grandchildren deserve to see the beautiful sites that our state has to offer."

The surplus amount changes every year, so it is premature to predict what it will be this year. A review of the five most recent annual surpluses indicated that a 15% allocation for open space would have generated $172.4 million over the last five years. Based on a statewide average price per acre of $4,300, those dollars could have protected over 40,000 acres.

The supplemental budget was passed yesterday by the Senate. It will be sent to the House for its review.