Our Mission
We conserve and care for the lands and waters of the Hudson Highlands so that people and nature can flourish together for generations to come.
Our Vision
Our mission supports a vision of the Hudson Highlands where wildlife thrives in a healthy, connected, climate-resilient landscape and people enjoy equitable access to nature’s benefits.
We cannot achieve this vision alone. HHLT engages in inclusive and creative partnerships across the Highlands region to ensure we address the interconnected needs of the human and natural communities we serve.
HHLT History
Founding
Accreditation & Evolution
Today
On March 12, 1989, twenty-one residents of the Hudson Highlands came together because they were alarmed by mounting development pressure in the area and were determined to preserve the region’s scenic beauty and natural resources. By the time that meeting ended, the Hudson Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) was formed, and a two-year plan of action had been adopted. On April 24, 1989, HHLT was issued a Certificate of Incorporation by New York State.
In September 2008, we became one of the first 39 land trusts nationwide to receive accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, which certifies a land trusts adherence to the highest standards in land conservation. HHLT remains a fully accredited land trust today.
Today, HHLT owns more than 1,000 acres outright and holds 94 conservation easements, permanently protecting more than 3,600 acres from overdevelopment. We have also partnered with other conservation organizations and state agencies to facilitate the permanent protection of thousands more acres. We fulfill our mission to protect natural resources by working closely with local municipalities on land use planning issues. Our public programs encourage people from all communities to get outdoors, on the land, as part of our effort to inspire lifelong stewards of the natural world.
A Delicate Balance
Less than 50 miles north of New York City, the Hudson Highlands region is rich in scenic beauty, wildlife habitat, and recreation opportunities. HHLT works to protect biodiversity and natural resources, address climate change, and create opportunities for people to experience the benefits of being in nature.