WURTSBORO – The Open Space
Institute has acquired the 117-acre Kaufman property that buffers the
northern part of the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area in the Wurtsboro
area.
The newly-conserved land safeguards the Bashakill and also links three
state forests – Wurtsboro Ridge, Roosa Gap and Shawangunk Ridge
state forests, along the Shawangunk Ridge.
OSI will hold onto the Kaufman property until the state Department of
Environmental Conservation acquires it as an addition to the Bashakill.
“This newly-conserved land will help protect an amazing natural
resource, while enhancing the local economies supported by recreational
tourism,” said OSI President Kim Elliman.
“Conserving this parcel provides additional protection to headwaters
of the Bashakill wetland and to the Shawangunk Ridge overlooking this
important area for wildlife and public enjoyment,” said DEC Commissioner
Basil Seggos.
