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