Expansion of Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Governor Hochul Declares 291 Acres in Ulster County Now Part of the Park
In a significant stride towards New York's 30x30 Initiative, a new addition of 291 acres has been incorporated into Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County. This expansion protects a wilderness gorge through which the Peterskill stream flows, along with several rocky summits, including Dickie Barre, Ronde Barre, and portions of Rock Hill.
The park, which is situated on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge and rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level, already boasts numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, incising sheer cliffs and ledges, clear streams cut into valleys, 35 miles of carriage roads, and 50 miles of footpaths.
Governor Kathy Hochul has been actively advancing this initiative, with the Minnewaska expansion contributing directly to the 30x30 conservation target. Similar efforts have been made within the Catskill Forest Preserve, improving watershed protections essential for clean water and enhancing public recreational opportunities.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, which oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches, and more, is at the helm of these conservation projects. The office can be reached via various platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog, or via the OPRHP Newsroom.
The 30x30 Initiative also promotes sustainable use and access to these conserved lands. For instance, infrastructural improvements like accessible trails and parking at natural sites such as the Peekamoose Blue Hole in the Catskills have been implemented. Collaboration between state government, conservation groups, and local communities has been critical to these successes.
Beyond large-scale land conservation, there are complementary efforts in New York City to expand green space through converting underutilized lots and potential future use of land banks to create pocket parks, contributing to urban biodiversity and access to nature.
Information on Minnewaska State Park Preserve and other recreation areas can be found on the parks.ny.gov website, the NY State Parks Explorer app, or by calling 518.474.0456. The park welcomes over 88 million visitors annually, underscoring its importance as a hub for outdoor recreation and conservation.
The 30x30 Initiative integrates land preservation, watershed protection, public access, and community partnership as it works towards protecting at least 30% of its natural landscapes by 2030. This goal is part of a broader global effort to protect biodiversity and natural resources.
- The expansion of Minnewaska State Park Preserve has not only increased its conservation target for the 30x30 Initiative but also provides a healthier environment by protecting cleans waters essential for public recreational opportunities.
- The collaborative effort in New York City involves converting underutilized lots into pocket parks, ensuring a more sustainable urban lifestyle by promoting biodiversity and easier access to nature for city dwellers.
- In line with the 30x30 Initiative's commitment to public access, the newly preserved lands in Minnewaska State Park offer outdoor living experiences perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying the beauty of the surroundings, providing a fresh breath of healthy air and a connection with nature in our daily lives.
