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February 6, 2005
Steve Rosenberg, Executive
Director
Scenic Hudson Land Trust,
Inc.
RE: Letter of Support Regarding Hiddenbrooke Property
Dear
Mr. Steinhaus:
I
am writing to extend Scenic Hudson’s vigorous support for the City of Beacon’s
application to Dutchess County
for Open Space Funding for the protection of the Hiddenbrooke property at the
base of Fishkill Ridge in the Hudson Highlands. The City’s intention to protect
this I 00+-acre property will preserve the natural and scenic beauty of this mountainside
property and will add to the City’s parkland.
The property is
characterized by young, but well establish, hardwood forests, open fields, one
perennial and many intermittent streams, areas of steep slopes, and wetlands.
Formerly the property of the Ursuline Order of the Catholic Church, it has been
sold to a developer. Development of the property has the potential to cause
erosion and drainage problems, already experienced as the result of development
on nearby slopes. Protection of the land offers open space and protection of
habitat in a City experiencing intense development pressure.
As you know, Scenic Hudson
has made a strong investment in Beacon, spending over $7.5 million toward
acquisition and development of parks in Beacon. In addition, we have protected
over 2,400 acres of land on Fishkill Ridge. New York State has invested over $4
million on the waterfront, at Mt. Beacon, in Madam Brett Park and in other
Beacon open-space and trail projects. Now the City has stepped up to the plate.
Scenic Hudson strongly
endorses the City’s effort to play an active role in the protection of open
space within its borders. Its move to bond $1 million is a milestone in the
proactive planning efforts currently underway in Beacon. The County’s
participation in this conservation project will go a long way towards the
success of the effort and will encourage the City to continue to plan its
future in a balanced way.
Beacon’s revitalization
demonstrates the strength of Dutchess County’s tourist and cultural economy.
Adding beautiful natural places for visitors and residents will enhance the
City’s remarkable renaissance. We heartily endorse Beacon’s application.
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