Three Farms Saved in Rondout Valley

On Thursday, Nov. 8, Scenic Hudson announced the permanent protection of three multi-generational farms in the Rondout Valley, an important agricultural area. These transactions, completed in partnership with the Open Space Institute and Ulster County, are the latest accomplishments in our ongoing effort to support working landscapes in the Hudson Valley. Details about the announcement and photos of the newly protected farmland can be found in this press release.

Since 1992, Scenic Hudson has protected nearly 7,000 acres of farmland in 10 communities throughout Columbia, Dutchess, Orange and Ulster counties. Complete details about Scenic Hudson's two decades of farmland protection are available at this link.

George Trakas' dramatic new riverfront sculpture includes a terraced angling deck, a new boardwalk, and a restored bulkhead. Photo © Harry Wilks

ON THE WATERFRONT: New Sculpture Connects People with the River in Beacon

On Saturday, Oct. 27, officials from Scenic Hudson, Dia Art Foundation and Minetta Brook joined a crowd of art lovers for the dedication of George Trakas's Beacon Point, 2007. This permanent public artwork at Scenic Hudson's 25-acre Long Dock Beacon property will make the beautiful waterfront more accessible to local residents and visitors for years to come. More...

Prominent Research Scientist Now Helping Scenic Hudson Create Healthier Waterfronts

Dr. Michael W. Klemens, a widely respected conservation biologist noted for bridging the gap between nature and community planning, has joined Scenic Hudson. Dr. Klemens will provide invaluable support to our efforts to protect and restore wildlife and natural systems in the face of increasing pressure from developers.

More information about Dr. Klemens can be found in this press release.

CONTEST #2: Another Chance to Win an Autographed Copy of Reed Sparling's Latest Book

Visit this page to see if you can identify which Scenic Hudson Park Reed Sparling is visiting this month.

Last month we debuted a new feature, asking readers to identify a photo of Scenic Hudson Writer Reed Sparling hiding in one of our Hudson Valley parks and preserves.
You can find the answer to November's contest — and find out who won — at this page.

For December, we have a new challenge. The first person to respond correctly will win an autographed copy of his new book, Hudson Valley Voyage: Through the Seasons, Through the Years. Happy guessing!

Support
Scenic Hudson...
Help us protect the beautiful Hudson River Valley for today and for future generations. Donate by Dec. 31 — it's tax deductible!

December Events...

Orienteering Adventure
POSTPONED
Unfortunately, the orienteering event scheduled for Dec. 1 in Cortlandt has been postponed. Watch your e-mail box for rescheduling announcement.

"Winter World" Hike
Date: Saturday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m.
Location: Black Creek Preserve (Ulster)
Hike the trails of this 130-acre nature preserve and learn how plants and animals -- including humans -- can adapt to survive in the colder weather. More ...

Other Events...

"School's Out" Outdoor Fun Day
Date: Monday, Jan. 21
Location: Esopus Meadows (Ulster)

Sledding Party
Date: Saturday, Jan. 26
Location: Burger Hill (Dutchess)

Annual "Winter Fest"
Date: Saturday, Feb. 2
Location: Shaupeneak Ridge (Ulster)

Look for details of these and other winter events in next month's newsletter.

2007 Annual Report
Scenic Hudson has made strong progress in the past year, protecting shorelines, reshaping inappropriate development and launching an ambitious plan to save 65,000 acres of "the land that matters most."

Read our 2007 Annual Report for complete details.