Wallkill Valley Land Trust

Preservation Projects in Process

We have four land preservation projects that we expect to close this calendar year. Three in New Paltz and one in Marlboro, which is an area where we are just getting known. In New Paltz we are negotiating about the 43 acre land preservation agreement that is required for the Woodland Pond project. The easement when completed will protect the wetlands and woodlands and ensure that no additional development takes place on the property. The agreement will also encourage that the residents of Woodland Pondtake an active role in stewarding, managing, and perhaps restoring the important habitats. These forty three acres are the first part of what someday may become the Millbrook Greenway.  Also in New Paltz we are working with Historic Huguenot Street to conserve the Harcourt Sanctuary regardless of whoever the owner may be. The Land Trust received a grant from the New York State Conservation Partnership Program for this work. When completed the preservation of the three contiguous properties-the Huguenot Street Farm, the Jewett Family Farm, and the Harcourt Sanctuary-will cover more than 225 acres in New Paltz and over a mile of river frontage on the Wallkill. There are plans to create a public trail along this stretch of the Wallkill at some point in the future.  We are working with a private landowner on conserving fifteen acres that surround the Plattekill Creek at route 208. The fact the creek runs through a ravine means the range of species is rare for southern Ulster County. The creek and the ravine have been studied by the Mohonk Preserve and the Metropolitan Conservation Alliance. The parcel in Marlboro, also owned by a private landowner, is 18 acres with a pond, woods, and a working orchard leased to the neighboring farm. Surrounding the house are large, old maples. In addition to the relatively natural habitat around the pond and the active farming, this property provides scenic value to those passing on the road.