ESOPUS - Scenic Hudson has purchased a property surrounded by the organization’s 93-acre Esopus Meadows Preserve in Ulster County.

The transaction permanently safeguards this three-acre wooded property featuring 200 feet of Hudson River shoreline visible from Staatsburg, the location of Mills Mansion, Wilderstein and other historic and recreational sites across the river in Dutchess County. 

It also ensures the permanent protection of a large vernal pool – important habitat for amphibians such as frogs and salamanders.

Scenic Hudson’s purchase of this riverfront property stopped potential development that would have irreparably damaged the ecological value of the land, located within the state-designated Esopus Meadows Biologically Important Area, and degraded natural and scenic vistas enjoyed by users of the preserve, the environmental group said.  It also prevented a driveway from being built at an existing walking path that bisects the preserve.  At the same time, it will allow Scenic Hudson to extend a trail along a wooded bluff offering stunning river views.

Scenic Hudson Land Project Manager Matt Shipkey negotiated the purchase.

“Protecting this small parcel provides enormous benefits, safeguarding some of the most magnificent views in the Hudson Valley and ensuring that visitors to Esopus Meadows Preserve will always enjoy the land’s unspoiled natural beauty,” said Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan.