Town of Neversink, NY, March 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Open Space Institute (OSI) today announced the acquisition of more than 3,100 forested acres within the Catskill Park—one of the largest parcels of privately-owned, contiguous forestland remaining within the Catskill Blue Line. The site plays a key role in safeguarding sources of clean water, providing high-quality habitat for birds, turtles, fish, and other wildlife, and enhancing recreational opportunities.
Before OSI stepped in to permanently protect the “Blue Hill” property, a proposal had been developed for the site that included a large-scale mix of housing, resort, and commercial uses. OSI intends to transfer the land to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as an addition to the Willowemoc Wild Forest; once transferred, it will be the largest addition to the Catskill Forest Preserve in nearly 25 years.
Featuring abundant natural resources, the newly protected land includes native hardwood forests, undisturbed wetlands, nearly 20 miles of streambanks, and a ridgeline of peaks—the highest more than 2,700 feet in elevation—that provide uninterrupted and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
“OSI’s conservation of the Blue Hill property is a monumental win for clean water, habitat, and recreation in the Catskills,” said Erik Kulleseid, OSI’s president and CEO. “This new acquisition is a rare find, both for its sheer size and for the wealth of benefits it provides. Over the last four decades, OSI has protected more than 25,000 acres of land within the Catskill Park, and we’re proud to continue our commitment to conserving the landscapes most vital to the health and wellbeing of people and wildlife.”
“Partners like OSI are instrumental to helping DEC achieve …
