HHLT was proud to partner with Woods End LLC and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation to conserve 93 acres of ecologically rich land -- which are now permanently protected as part of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. This project represents the culmination of a multi-year effort to safeguard a critical wildlife corridor adjacent to Fahnestock.

HHLT’s work on this project took shape following our protection of 150 acres of a neighboring property that was later conveyed to New York State Parks. Recognizing the conservation potential of the adjacent parcel, HHLT reached out to the owner, Woods End LLC, to permanently protect its property. What followed was a multi-year collaboration with Woods End LLC, the Town of Putnam Valley, and NYS Parks to navigate a complex subdivision process and ultimately permanently conserve this property as an addition to Fahnestock. The result, 93 acres of mature hardwood forest and sensitive habitat now belong to the public park system permanently.

This land stands out as an ecologically significant property in the Hudson Highlands. It also has been identified as a "Significant Biodiversity Area" by the New York Natural Heritage Program. The land also supports special concern species, including northern long-eared bats, and the mature tree canopy provides vital resources for native wildlife throughout the seasons. In a time of rapid environmental change, conserving landscapes like this one matters deeply for the long-term resilience of the Hudson Highlands ecosystem.

This project further exemplifies HHLT’s mission to conserving and caring for the lands and waters of the Hudson Highlands so that people and nature can flourish together for generations to come. The property benefits more than just wildlife and sensitive habitats — and while it is not currently publicly accessible, it opens opportunities for future outdoor access that connects people to the land. The acquisition was made possible through New York’s Environmental Protection Fund, a critical resource for protecting public lands across the state.

We are grateful to every, landowner, partner, and supporter who made this possible. Read the full press release from Governor Hochul’s office HERE.

Spring Migration Hike at Lane Gate Preserve
Monday, May 11, 10am - 12pm

Join HHLT staff and partners from the New York Natural Heritage Program and Putnam Highlands Audubon Society for a FREE guided bird walk that takes place at the peak of spring migration. Participants will enjoy a walk through the preserve, while learning to identify and observe incredible bird species in their natural habitat! Registration is required: CLICK HERE

Family Nature Day at Winter Hill

Saturday, May 30, 2pm - 4pm

Join us for an afternoon of FREE, fun nature activities for all ages! Don’t miss "World of Animals", an interactive presentation featuring live raptors, reptiles, and more! Let us know you're coming so we have enough treats for everyone: CLICK HERE

June Bioblitz at Lane Gate Preserve

Thursday, June 4, 8am - 6pm

Spring is in full swing, and there's no better way to celebrate than getting outside and discovering what's around us! Join HHLT staff and Wild Woods Restoration Project, for a community BioBlitz at Lane Gate Preserve, in Cold Spring, NY, where participants of all experience levels are invited to document as many plant, animal, and fungi species as possible in a single day.

Using iNaturalist, a free app that connects naturalists and scientists worldwide. All observations made at the event will contribute directly to HHLT's project record. Whether you spot a wildflower you've never noticed before or a familiar bird returning for the season, every sighting counts and all participants are welcome!

Heading out to HHLT preserves this spring through summer? HHLT's other preserves are open year-round and every observation you log there adds to the picture of what's thriving across our protected lands. Get out, explore, and track your data HERE.