The DelCarte Open Space Area, sometimes referred to as the Franklin Reservoir, was donated to the town of Franklin by Ernest DelCarte after his passing in October 2000. In addition to this generous 136-acre donation, DelCarte is remembered for his work as the owner of a tackle shop located directly on the northern pond behind the boat launch. Locals reminisce of the care that DelCarte felt over the area, which ultimately resulted in the donation of the land as a conservation area to prevent development on the ecologically unique landscape.

Since 2000, the Conservation Commission of Franklin has worked on many projects in the area, including clearing trails, refurbishing dams, developing a playground, and adding attributes for easier access for recreation, including a floating boardwalk and two canoe launches.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at DelCarte Conservation Area.