SAUGERTIES – Scenic Hudson, working with representatives from the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill and the Esopus Creek Conservancy, held a ribbon cutting ceremony Sunday for Falling Waters Preserve in Saugerties.

The 168-acre parcel protects ecologically sensitive land along the Hudson River.

The preserve features over one mile of scenic riverfront, a stream, meadows, wetlands and hardwood forests, plus mountain and river vistas. An agreement between Scenic Hudson and the Dominican Sisters grants a conservation easement and public access for the next five years.

“What’s beginning today is just the latest example of citizens and organizations coming together in a collaborative partnership, to preserve something important along the river, and make it available to members of the public,” said Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan.

“The Dominican Sisters have been privileged to be stewards of this land for over 80 years. We treasure this gift,” said Sister Mary Murray, president of Dominican Sisters of Sparkill.

“It is our hope that this preserve will be a place of spiritual refuge and beauty to all who come, a place of refreshment in one part of God's holy creation,” Murray said.

The organizations were joined by local public officials and members of the community. After the ribbon was cut, all were invited for the first ever public tours through the property.

Susan Bolitzer, president of Esopus Creek Conservancy, said they hope to expand their program of nature walks and habitat study in collaboration with the other two “amazing organizations... who have shown such dedication to the land in preserving and sharing this Hudson River gem.”

The preserve is located on Dominican Lane, off York Road, just south of the Village of Saugerties down Route 9W.