A Portsmouth conservation group has convinced city officials to buy a conservation easement on a large, wooded property in the city to prevent it from being developed. 

Known as “The 100-Acre Woods,” the 99-acre section of woods and wetlands between Harding Road and the Rye town line will be largely preserved using $1 million from a city fund dedicated to conservation.  

The move was approved at a Sept. 3 City Council meeting at the urging of the Southeast Land Trust. 

Around 5 acres at the property’s center surrounding an existing house will be exempt from the easement. 

The Southeast Land Trust had negotiated a $1.8 million deal with landowner Joseph Cavaretta and needs the $1 million contribution from city coffers to make the deal work. The deal is expected to be finalized next year. 

The tract is the largest privately owned piece of land in the city.