Dutchess County
Fishkill/Beacon Ridge (Putnam and Dutchess counties) Once these undeveloped, upland forest tracks are acquired, recreational opportunities would increase. Land preservation in this ecologically rich area would provide an important link on the northern end of the Hudson Highlands and safeguard the scenic viewshed of the Highlands and the Hudson River.
Quaker Brook-Haviland Hollow Watershed (Dutchess and Putnam counties) – dually designated with Connecticut The Housatonic Valley Association is fighting to defend the fragile ecosystems in the area. The watershed, which empties into the Hudson River, is noted for its clear water.
Taconic Ridge (Dutchess County) Protection of this area is crucial due to the region’s biodiversity, scenic views, recreational value, steeply sloping hillsides, unique geology, historic architecture, and working farmland.
Orange County
Fort Montgomery Gateway (Orange County) Perched on a cliff 120 feet above the Hudson River, the historic battle site is rich in history and offers dramatic views of the Highlands and the Bear Mountain Bridge.
Goosepond Mountain Link (Orange County) Lands adjacent to the 1,500-acre Goosepond Mountain State Park, a biodiversity hotspot, are threatened by immediate and intense development pressures.
Greater Sterling Forest (Orange County) Continuing preservation efforts in Sterling Forest are critical to maintaining the rich biodiversity and diverse habitats of this ecosystem and vital watershed.
Pochuck Mountain (Orange County) The mountain rises above 1,000 feet and, on clear days, its heights offer unbroken views for 15 miles. Pochuck contains a network of streams that feed into the Wallkill River and trails that connect to adjoining parklands.
Ramapo Mountains and Ramapo River Watershed (Orange and Rockland counties) The Ramapo River Watershed is an irreplaceable water supply, recreational resource, and key ecosystem in the Highlands. Torne Valley, part of the Ramapo River Watershed, is under intense development pressure. Photo by Geoff Welch
Schunnemunk Mountain/Moodna Creek/Woodcock Mountain (Orange County) The three areas provide necessary habitats for rare plant and fish life, and are also a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts who can hike the 7-mile stretch of the Long Path.
Walkill Valley Farmland (Orange County) The area contains forested, emergent wetlands and is adjacent to grasslands, forests, and farmlands that are regionally important for migratory waterbirds and waterfowl, raptors, grassland birds, reptiles, and plants.
Putnam County
Fishkill/Beacon Ridge (Putnam and Dutchess counties) Once these undeveloped, upland forest tracks are acquired, recreational opportunities would increase. Land preservation in this ecologically rich area would provide an important link on the northern end of the Hudson Highlands and safeguard the scenic viewshed of the Highlands and the Hudson River.
Great Swamp (Putnam and Dutchess counties) The largest and highest quality red maple hardwood swamp in southern New York purifies drinking water for New York City residents and provides a home for bird and aquatic species. Large parts of the Great Swamp's 63,000-acre watershed have been identified by the U.S. Forest Service as a Highlands Conservation Focal Area. Photo by Al Ullrich
Quaker Brook-Haviland Hollow Watershed (Dutchess and Putnam counties) – dually designated with Connecticut The Housatonic Valley Association is fighting to defend the fragile ecosystems in the area. The watershed, which empties into the Hudson River, is noted for its clear water.
Hudson Highlands/Fahnestock Link (Putnam County) This area contains large blocks of nearly contiguous upland forests, reservoirs for several municipalities, and the Clove/Fishkill Creek Watershed. Parks and protected lands in the area are rich in ecological, recreational, and historical value. Photo by Greg Miller
New York City Croton Watershed Lands (Westchester and Putnam counties) The reservoirs that are buffered by forests produce clean drinking water for 9 million people in the New York metropolitan area. However, the city's acquisition program in the Croton System is limited in scope, leaving many areas vulnerable to development.
