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State to review impact of Gunks proposal
By Dan Shapley
Poughkeepsie Journal, January 23, 2003

GARDINER -- The state Department of Environmental Conservation intends to lead the environmental review of a controversial Shawangunk Ridge development proposal, according to Assemblyman John Bonacic, R-Mount Hope.
Officials in the towns of Gardiner, Shawangunk and Warwarsing had requested the DEC lead the review under the State Environmental Quality Review Act. Bonacic said he got assurance Wednesday from Marc Moran, DEC regional director, that the DEC would seek ''lead agency'' status.

The Awosting Reserve development calls for 349 plots for homes, a golf course and other related structures on the Shawangunk Ridge in the three towns, mostly in Gardiner. The land borders both the Minnewaska State Park Preserve and the Sam's Point Preserve, which draw thousands to the ridge for hiking, biking and rock climbing.

About 60 percent of the property -- 1,499 acres of forest and the golf course -- would be permanently protected as open space, but not in one contiguous block.

The proposal has drawn opposition from many who believe the project will destroy a recreational resource. Roger Beck, president of Awosting Reserve, said he is willing to work with the community to follow strict guidelines and ensure conservation.

The town must wait until Feb. 14 to choose a lead agency.