The preservation of natural open spaces in the County's 3,200-acre system has many benefits: wildlife habitat, recreation opportunities, buffer zones between developments, increased property values of adjacent land, noise attenuation, air pollution reduction, water quality preservation and improvement, and natural and cultural resource preservation.

The County's Open Space Preserves are located throughout the County. A preserve is 20-30 minutes from where you live. They are all open to the public with the exception of the Palmetto-Alligator Slough Preserve which will be opened at a later date once access improvements are made.

The Preserves offer a variety of topographical, geological, and environmental experiences for visitors. Some are hilly and rocky, some are broad meadows, some include wetlands, some are heavily wooded, and some are historically significant to both Texas and Dallas County. The Preserves set aside natural habitats where native plants, reptiles, birds and mammals can continue to thrive. The County, cities, and individuals have identified such unique habitats.

The County has acquired its 3,200 acres using a combination of bond funds, State and Federal grants and cash donations. Some of the Preserves were donated to the County by private landowners in an effort to preserve the basic fabric and beauty of the County. Lorch Park, North Mesquite Creek Preserve, and parts of other Preserves are examples of the continuing generosity of Dallas County citizens.