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Governors Press release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 10, 2003
GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES PRESERVATION OF MORE THAN 500 ACRES

Land Along Shawangunk Ridge, Turkey Point Acquired by State

Governor George E. Pataki today announced the preservation of more than 500 acres of critical open space in the Hudson Valley that contains scenic trails, rare ecosystems, and additional recreational opportunities. Two parcels have been acquired by the state - 510 acres on the Shawangunk Ridge in the towns of Greenville and Deerpark, Orange County, and more than 8 acres of the Turkey Point Multi-Mission property in the Town of Saugerties, Ulster County.

"The Hudson Valley is renowned for unparalleled beauty, historical significance and treasured natural resources," Governor Pataki said. "new York State's ongoing investments to further protect the Shawangunk Ridge and to create additional opportunities for public enjoyment of the Hudson River will continue to benefit our environment and our economy."

Under the leadership of Governor Pataki, New York State has preserved more than 412,000 acres of open space, resulting in increased recreational opportunities, preserving historic resources, strengthening local economies, and protecting valuable ecosystems.

New York State purchased 510 acres of undeveloped forest located on the Shawangunk Ridge in the towns of Greenville and Deerpark, Orange County. The property was purchased from the Fini Brothers Partnership for $826,000 and is funded by the Environmental Protection Fund. DEC will manage the property as a reforestation area, which can be utilized for hunting, hiking, bird watching, nature study and sustainable forestry. The state will pay local taxes on the property.

The purchase also includes a portion of the Shawangunk Ridge Trail, a hiking trail more than 30-miles long that traverses the geologically unique Ridge. The trail contains several scenic vantage points as it connects public lands from the western base of the Ridge at Bashakill Wildlife Management Area to Minnewaska State Park and the Mohonk Preserve along the northeast corner of the Ridge. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has identified the Shawangunk Ridge as one of the country's 'last great places' in recognition of its unique ecosystem and rare, endangered species habitat.

Representative Sue Kelly said, "The Hudson Valley is one of the nation's most treasured natural resources and all levels of government must work together to protect it. This latest acquisition will play a vital role in preserving the local environment and will allow residents and visitors alike the opportunity to experience all the Hudson River region has to offer. Governor Pataki is to be commended for his leadership in protecting New York's natural heritage. I look forward to working with the Governor to see that the federal government remains a strong partner in safeguarding our local environment."

Senator John Bonacic said, "With the Shawangunk Ridge and the entire Hudson Valley facing massive development pressure, today's announcement by the Governor is especially welcome. I also want to applaud the Governor for ensuring that the State will pay property taxes on this land."

Assemblyman Daniel Hooker said, "Saugerties is a beautiful town and the Hudson River is certainly the crown jewel of the town's natural resources. I am very happy that the citizens of Saugerties will enjoy additional access to the river and more recreational opportunities as a result of this preservation. Our natural environment is a precious heritage for our children and I am pleased to help pass it on to them."

George Hossann Jr., Supervisor, Town of Greenville said, "I am pleased to find out that this land has been set aside. It will help to maintain the pristine beauty of our area, as well as keeping our spectacular view of the valley below. To save this for the future is a blessing to us all."

James Chandler, Supervisor, Town of Deerpark said, "On behalf of the residents of the Town Deerpark we are grateful to Governor Pataki for the preservation of the open space land in the Town of Deerpark. Now the land can be enjoyed by generations to come because of Governor Pataki's support of environmental sensitive areas."

Erik Kulleseid, of the Trust for Public Land and the Open Space Institute said, "This property is a keystone of the southern Shawangunk Ridge and has long been a state priority for protection. The purchase of this land for public recreation was made possible by support from Governor Pataki, Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Erin Crotty, and groups including the New York/New Jersey Trail Conference and the Shawangunk Ridge Coalition."

New York State is acquiring the Turkey Point Multi-Mission property in the Town of Saugerties, Ulster County, through a surplus land transfer from the National Park Service. The acquisition will expand opportunities for hiking, environmental interpretation and fishing on the Hudson River. In 1997, Governor Pataki nominated the Hudson River to be one of the nation's first American Heritage Rivers, a federal program which provides targeted federal assistance to rivers of national importance. The no-cost Turkey Point acquisition was a key project of this initiative and Congresswoman Sue W. Kelly was the catalyst to making the transfer a reality.

The 8.2 acres of woodland property at Turkey Point will be incorporated into the adjacent DEC Turkey Point Unique Area, a 133-acre parcel of forest and fields. The property also includes a 200-foot wharf on the Hudson River and a navigational light. It will be managed for recreation, environmental and historic interpretation, and Hudson River fishing access. DEC will work closely with the Town of Saugerties and Ulster County to develop additional trails, environmental interpretation opportunities and access to the Hudson River.

The property will become a component of the Hudson River Greenway Trail and may also become a site for a designated Hudson River Water Trail currently under development. Access to fishing from the wharf by people with disabilities also will be encouraged. The partners will work closely with the Coast Guard to develop historic displays of the rich Coast Guard history in the area. The Coast Guard will maintain the Hudson River navigational light on the wharf.

State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Erin M. Crotty said, "Governor Pataki continues to demonstrate his commitment to protecting open space and providing additional opportunities to enjoy New York's magnificent natural resources. Today's announcement is an important part of our continuing efforts to protect the Hudson Valley's critical open spaces."

Carmella R. Mantello, Executive Director of the Hudson River Valley Greenway Communities Council, said, "The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation acquisition of Turkey Point goes hand in hand with Governor Pataki's and the Greenway's efforts to expand recreational opportunities and preserve open space in the Hudson Valley. This important piece of property will help the Greenway fulfill our mission for land and water-based development and fill a gap in the Hudson River Greenway Water Trail."