Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

May 22, 2007

For Release: Immediate
Press Contact:
Eileen Larrabee
518.486.1868

State Parks Announces Addition to Sterling Forest State Park

100 Acre Parcel of Land Gifted from Cintichem, Inc.

(Albany, NY, May 22, 2007...) Carol Ash, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) today announced the addition of 100 acres of land in Orange County. The property, which was donated by Cintichem, Inc., will become part of Sterling Forest State Park.

"Sterling Forest is a magnificent public property. The addition of this parcel furthers our mission to protect New York's environment," Ash said, noting the importance of the land to the New York City watershed. "This addition contributes to our efforts to establish green corridors and to create networks between public and private lands for both people and nature."

Formerly an industrial site, the property is now open space. The land borders Hogback Mountain on the west and the Indian Kill Reservoir to the north. The reservoir extends onto the northeast corner of the site.

"I would like to thank Cintichem, Inc. for their commitment to the clean-up of this land and giving it as a gift to the people of the State of New York" Ash continued. "This land will be enjoyed for generations to come."

The property is located just off Long Meadow Road (County Route 84), providing easy access from major transportation corridors. This scenic and undisturbed parcel is home to important and unique habitats and wetlands. The site is a great hiking location.

Sterling Forest State Park is among the largest properties in the state's system and now offers upwards of 20,000 acres of nearly pristine natural refuge amidst of one of the nation's most densely populated areas. The park is a popular outdoor recreation destination with activities including hunting, fishing and hiking. On site is the US Senator Frank R. Lautenberg Visitor Center, which overlooks Sterling Lake and features exhibits about the local environment, as well as an auditorium.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation administers 178 state parks, 35 state historic sites and 19 heritage areas. For more information about state parks and historic sites in New York, please visit www.nysparks.com.

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