viewshed Fall/Winter Newsletter 2018
The Lake George Land Conservancy
is an
accredited not-for-profit land trust dedicated to working with willing landowners and other partners to protect the world-
Protecting the Land that Protects the Lake since 1988.
renowned water quality of Lake George and to permanently preserve the natural, scenic, historic and recreational resources of the Lake George region.
From the Executive Director
Contact us:
French Mountain; A True Partnership for the Lake
518-644-9673 | www.lglc.org
LGLC STAFF Helen Barton Benedict* Development Manager
Sarah Hoffman Communications & Outreach Manager
Jamie Brown Executive Director
Alexander Novick Land Steward
Megan Clothier* Office Assistant
Michele DeRossi Vidarte Community Engagement & Events Manager
Monica Dore Conservation Project Manager
Cornelia Wells Finance & Office Manager
Charles M. Cumming VP of Human Resources
Jeffry Brozyna VP of Development
Lake George
Tom Hall VP of Conservation
Tracey Clothier Secretary
Lake George
George Morris VP of Finance, Treasurer
Ed Becker, DVM Sabbath Day Point John Buhac, MD Gull Bay Jennifer Waterhouse Cooper Bolton Landing Elizabeth Guest Silver Bay Patty HasBrouck Bolton Landing Jonathan A. Herttua Glenburnie Debbie Hoffman Bolton Landing
Christopher LaGuardia Judith K. Larter Elizabeth Meigher Peg Olsen Robert Singer Robert Von Werne James W. Wolitarsky
Northwest Bay Diamond Point Pilot Knob Kattskill Bay Silver Bay Bolton Landing Glenburnie Ticonderoga Bolton Landing Northwest Bay
ADVISORY BOARD Robert Birchenough, MD William Bixby, III Henry Caldwell Dean L. Cook, DMD David Darrin JD DeSantis Arthur Franz John Hubbard, Jr. Mark Johnson, PhD Walter F. Lamb, Jr. Douglas Langdon, MD
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Cleverdale Northwest Bay Bolton Landing Ticonderoga Hague Bolton Landing Bolton Landing Northwest Bay Stony Point Bolton Landing Bolton Landing
LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
4-5 6
Ribbon-Cutting at Huletts Landing
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30th Anniversary Special Addition
8-16
Robert Von Werne Joins Board; 17 NextGen; Lemonade for Land Aid 18
Pilot Knob Makeover; More Than 19 a Legal Document
LGLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Huletts Landing
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Bolton Hub: Coming Soon; Saddlebrook
Field Notes; Volunteer Stewards
*Part-time
Michael O’Reilly President
INSIDE:
John J. Macionis, PhD Hague James Menzies, PhD Bolton Landing Peter Menzies Bolton Landing Sandra Nierzwicki-Bauer, PhD Bolton Landing Rosemary Pusateri Cleverdale Hugh Roberts Bolton Landing Daniel Ryterband Diamond Point Rebecca Smith Bolton Landing Virginia Rowan Smith Silver Bay Ike Wolgin Bolton Landing
250 Friends Join to Celebrate; Hike-A-Thon Recap
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Land & Water Celebration Recap; 21 2nd Annual Amy’s Race Get Out! Winter Event Listing
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Cover photo, First Peak Lookout © Madeline Jenkins, runner-up of our 2018 Spring Cover Photo Contest.
This newsletter is printed on paper donated by International Paper's Ticonderoga Mill
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear friends, From Memorial Day to Labor Day, this has been a summer-long celebration of the LGLC’s 30th anniversary and all of the thousands of people who have been a part of our story. I hope you were able to join us for some of the many events and opportunities held at our office in Bolton and all around the lake. What was most amazing to me about this summer was the opportunity to get to know so many more people, including founding board members and long-time supporters. The results of their efforts are memorialized in newsletters, memos, newspaper articles, and other artifacts. Having been here at the LGLC for three years now, I’ve learned a lot of names and important moments in our history, but I continue to discover stories of individuals and families that really made an impact on the health of the lake and its watershed. It is obvious that Lake George would not be what it is today without the efforts of these special people. It is clear that the passion, commitment, and dedication to the land that protects the lake was and continues to be a common thread that ties us together and motivates us to do more. Inside, you’ll find a special addition to this newsletter, a section devoted to the big picture of 30 years of conservation. It’s an amazing testament to the many thousands of people who contributed to our cause. You’ll also read about landowners who put the lake’s well-being before financial gain; kids who donate their lemonade proceeds; generous donors who broke a new fundraising record at our gala and made it possible to move forward on new projects; and volunteers who have stepped up to make a difference in their own way. Based on the enthusiasm and passion that I saw this summer, I have great hope for the future of this organization and Lake George, well past another 30 years. I am humbled and grateful for those who have led the way, and hope to be worthy of their legacy. Thank you so very much for all that you do for the land that protects the lake. Best regards,
Jamie Brown Executive Director
LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
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French Mountain Thanks to the vision of two town supervisors and their boards, the LGLC’s experience with collaborative land projects, and a cooperative and conservation-minded landowner, over 300 acres of forested land on the French Mountain Range will be forever protected.
The LGLC has agreed to buy 317 acres on French Mountain, which lies within the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury, for $525,000 and then sell the property subject to a conservation easement to the towns. The conservation easement will not only ensure that the land is protected, but also create a permanent relationship between the towns and the LGLC.
The property also offers another positive benefit: recreation. The towns plan on creating a multi-use trail system on the property, which the LGLC will help to maintain. Because of its historical use for logging, the property has skidder trails throughout that the partners in this project agree could be used for hikers and mountain bikers.
The protection of the land also offers direct water quality protection. More than 2,000 feet of seasonal streams flow down the steep slopes of the property and join with East Brook far below.
Although the trails would have a steep incline, the view from the lookout area will prove to be worth the effort. From the lookout area, those who have made the climb will be able to sit under the shade of the forest and catch their breath, taking in the expansive views of the lake, the village below, and the surrounding Adirondacks.
Zoning of the property would have allowed for the development of up to 15 new houses, potentially visible from I-87, Million Dollar Beach, resorts along Lake Shore Drive, and many other locations on the lake. In addition, these houses would have contributed to the runoff that flows into East Brook, and then into the south basin of the lake. Although the LGLC is not anti-development, the benefits to the watershed from protecting this particular land and retaining its natural state outweigh the possible value from development.
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LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
The property also provides a great link to the neighboring East Brook Preserve, which the McPhillips family sold to the LGLC earlier this year through a generous bargain sale. The Preserve contains wetlands and over 500 feet of the main branch of East Brook. The LGLC plans to develop a trail system and install educational signage at the property to explain how important land protection is to ensuring clean water in Lake George for generations to come.
PARTNER HIGHLIGHT
A True Partnership for the Lake With its approval from the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury, the French Mt. project became the LGLC’s second great demonstration of how we, as a land trust, can successfully partner with municipalities for land conservation, and our common goals of protecting Lake George. Similar to our partnership with the Town of Bolton to protect The Pinnacle in 2015, the LGLC brokered a cooperative agreement that benefits the lake as well as our partners’ communities.
Photo: View of Lake George Village from the property Below: Map of the newly protected French Mt property
Lake George
Lake George School Property
Bloody Pond R oad
NYS Battlefield Park
French Mountain Protection Project 317 acres
Queensbury Supervisor John Strough said, “The creation of a 317-acre jointly-owned French Mountain Park, is huge. This effort initiated by Lake George Town Supervisor Dickinson and LGLC’s Jamie Brown is going to be a boon for both Lake George’s water quality and our area’s recreational offerings. A beautiful property with beautiful views—flora, fauna, visitors and locals will love it.” Bernice McPhillips, whose family owned the French Mountain property for over 90 years, expressed support for the land to be used as a recreational resource for the community. “The partnership with the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury and the hiking and biking trail system will have a very positive impact for the economy year round,” she said. “The beautiful view from the top is from the village straight up the lake and will most definitely be appreciated by the hikers and bikers using the trail system.” This project could not have happened without everyone involved being fully committed and dedicated to its success. We are grateful to the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury and to the McPhillips family, and look forward to other partnerships like this to create more successes in the future.
East Brook Preserve LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
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Bolton Hub: Coming Soon Although so much attention is focused on the amount of hikers that flock to the High Peaks, Bolton Landing comes close to Lake Placid in terms of the amount of visitors it attracts that seek hiking as an activity. Popular hiking destinations like the Pinnacle (above) attract thousands of visitors to Bolton each year. The Hub plan will incorporate ways to connect these recreational assets to the downtown district (below).
The idea of the Town of Bolton as a “recreational hub” is a natural step forward, and is supported and championed by the Town’s Supervisor Ron Conover, and Tony Hall, owner of the Lake George Mirror, which is based out of Bolton Landing.
well as matching funds from the Town of Bolton and the Bolton Landing Chamber of Commerce. The Chazen Companies, a consulting firm locally based out of Queensbury, NY, is bringing the concept to life through conversations with stakeholders, site visits to the many existing recreational destinations throughout the town, mapping and inventory, and a review of past recreational plans.
We see this as a way to not only build economic opportunities for the town with visitors and residents alike, but also to educate people about our work and the importance of protecting the land that protects the lake. The LGLC owns or manages five properties with 25 miles of trails within the town.
The goal is to come away with a comprehensive vision of the town’s recreational assets, and develop recommendations for how to increase the visibility and connectivity of all of these resources as well as the downtown businesses district, and possibly connect them to other assets outside of the town.
To facilitate the creation of the hub, the LGLC applied for and received a $40,000 grant from the 2018 Conservation Partnership Program, funded through New York’s Environmental Protection Fund, as
The final plan, which is expected to be completed before the end of the year, will also help both the LGLC and the Town access future grants and other funding opportunities to help implement the recommendations.
Saddlebrook The LGLC has agreed to purchase a conservation easement on 140 acres in the Town of Bolton. The land, called Saddlebrook, contains nearly one-mile of Indian Brook stream corridor, and nearly 30% of the property is covered by wetlands. The conservation easement will extinguish 20 of the approved building lots on the property, thereby preventing the contamination of the stream and lake with harmful levels of chemicals 6
LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
such as nitrogen, phosphorus and salt, as well as excess sediment caused by buildings and roads that would have been constructed on the property. This project is part of a long-term effort that focuses on protecting the land that protects the water quality of Indian Brook and Northwest Bay Brook, two of the ten largest tributaries of Lake George. To date the LGLC has protected 2,325 acres within this sensitive area.
Ribbon-Cutting at Huletts Landing On Friday, September 7, the LGLC marked the opening of the Leeming Jelliffe Preserve in Huletts Landing with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by nearly 40 community members and key supporters of the project. The 33.3-acre upland preserve was purchased by the LGLC in April. Over the summer, LGLC staff and volunteers blazed a short, easy trail to the preserve’s viewpoint overlooking the narrows and Silver Bay on the western shore. There is currently a small roadfront area for parking; a larger parking lot may be created, if needed. The purchase was made thanks to the willingness of the Wilkening family to work to protect it, and to a timely and generous donation by Paul and Sylvia Jelliffe Lawler, which was matched by Paul’s former employer, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. The donation also made possible the purchase of a conservation easement on an adjoining house lot with over 600 feet of Lake George shorefront.
The Lawlers joined LGLC Executive Director Jamie Brown to cut the ceremonial ribbon at the preserve’s entrance on Bluff Head Road. Sylvia then spoke about her family’s roots at Lake George, and specifically, Hulett’s Landing.
continues to be the strong thread that keeps us together. There is really something magical and comforting about this place, and its ability to keep people together.”
Sylvia’s great-grandparents, and Helena “Bunny” Wilkening’s grandparents, Dr. Smith Ely Jelliffe and Helena Dewey Leeming Jelliffe, bought 125 acres of land in Huletts Landing in the early 1900’s. Over time the land was divided between their children; Bunny’s mother, Winifred, was given land that Bunny then inherited, including the property which is now the Leeming Jelliffe Preserve. The Preserve is named after Winifred’s brother, and Sylvia’s grandfather, William Leeming Jelliffe.
The LGLC also announced a new campaign, launched with a challenge pledge from the Lawlers and Kellogg Foundation for conservation in the Huletts Landing area. The LGLC will be fundraising to match the generous pledge, so that funds will be available for permanent land protection in this important conservation area.
“My grandfather, Leeming, died before my dad was born,” explained Sylvia. “He was a dearly beloved brother and he loved the lake. Dad was able to connect with his Aunts and Uncle here when I was young, and Lake George
CONTINUING THE LEGACY
Foster Brook and several other smaller streams flow through the hamlet, which is mostly undeveloped. Campaign efforts will focus on protecting the Foster Brook watershed, the viewshed from the lake, and creating recreational opportunities, where appropriate.
Leeming Jelliffe Preserve Bluff Head NYS Spruce Mt
Lake George
P
u Bl
H ff
ad Ro ead
Hulett’s Landing Center
Above: Cutting the ceremonial ribbon on September 7, marking the official opening of the Leeming Jelliffe Preserve. At the ribbon, left to right: LGLC Development Manager Helen Barton Benedict, Paul Lawler, LGLC Executive Director Jamie Brown, LGLC Board President Mike O’Reilly, Sylvia Jelliffe Lawler, LGLC Board Member Patty HasBrouck. LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
USGS The National Map: National Boundaries Dataset, National Elevation Dataset, Geographic Names Information System, National Hydrography Dataset, National Land Cover Database, National Structures Dataset, and National Transportation Dataset; U.S. Census Bureau - TIGER/Line; HERE Road Data
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30th Anniversary Special Addition
Protecting the LAND Protecting the LAKE The LGLC and its partners have permanently protected 10,867 acres of land and more than 6 1/2 miles of Lake George shoreline, through purchased and donated land acquisition, conservation easements, and innovative community collaborations.
When the LGLC buys a piece of land or holds an easement on property, the land’s wetlands and forests will always be able to filter storm water, provide habitat, be a part of the scenic view, and keep the lake’s water clean for drinking and enjoying in so many other ways. The LGLC also conducts year-round stewardship of its protected lands, including invasive species management; offers guided hikes and educational programs; organizes fun and engaging events for all Lake George communities; and actively seeks partnership opportunities for the conservation and celebration of a healthy watershed. As a land trust, we are in a unique position to make a positive, real and permanent impact on Lake George. This has been our mission for the past 30 years and what we will continue to do for you, this community, and the future of Lake George.
$19 6.6 miles of lake shoreline
17 miles
of stream corridors
million invested
plus $8 million in donated properties and conservation easements
10,867 acres of land
permanently protected
5
See next pages for property names and details.
#
10
LGLC-owned Parks and Preserves with trails and their additions
8 4
11 13
Other protected lands owned by LGLC
#
Lands protected/assisted by the LGLC and sold or donated to NYS; or protected by other partners
#
Conservation Easement and Deed Restricted lands currently protected by the LGLC
5 5
6
2
3 7
12 6 10
16 18
14 11 12
14 10
3
15 12
2 12 5 14
18 4
2
15
17 1 3 7 8
4 1 6 9 15 8
7 16
17
13
16 9 15 11 8
10
6
4
16
13
9
7
Lake George watershed boundary
13
11
3
9 1
30th Anniversary Special Addition
Lake George Conservation 1988-2018 #
14
1 2
30th Anniversary Special Addition
Lake George Conservation 1988-2018 # LGLC-owned Parks and Preserves with trails (bold), and their additions
#
Other protected lands owned by LGLC
1
Cook Mountain Preserve, Ticonderoga 155 acres
Donation
1
Pilot Knob Uplands, Fort Ann 12 acres
2
Cook Mountain Preserve Addition, Ticonderoga 18 acres Donation
2
Butternut Brook Preserve, Fort Ann 3 acres
Donation♦
3
Lynn LaMontagne Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob, Fort Ann 223 acres Fee Acquisition
3
Loines Preserve, Bolton 37 acres • 5,280 feet of shoreline
Donation♦
4
Anthony’s Nose, Putnam 189 acres • 3,550 feet of shoreline
Fee Acquisition
4
LGLC Macionis Family Center for Conservation 0.25 acres Fee Acquisition
5
Gull Bay Preserve, Putnam 434 acres
Fee Acquisition
5
Little Slide, Hague 53 acres • 297 feet of shoreline
Donation
6
Peggy’s Point, Hague 2 acres • 315 feet of shoreline
Donation
6
Hague Forest, Fort Ann 53 acres
Donation
7
Lichen Ledge, Queensbury 1 acre • 150 feet of shoreline
Donation
7
VanHart, Fort Ann 63.5 acres
Donation
8
Gull Bay Preserve Addition, Putnam 20 acres
Donation
8
Matty’s Mountain, Lake George/Lake Luzerne 171 acres Donation
9
Last Great Shoreline, Putnam 331 acres • 2,357 feet of shoreline
Fee Acquisition
9
Eagle’s Mare (Last Great Shoreline Addition), Putnam 6.07 acres • 255 feet of shoreline Donation
10 Amy’s Park, Bolton 500 acres
Fee Acquisition
11 Gull Bay-Last Great Shoreline Connector, Putnam 3 acres Land Swap/Fee Acquisition 12 Terzian Woodlot Preserve, Hague 132 acres
Fee Acquisition
13 Anthony’s Nose Addition, Putnam 18 acres
Fee Acquisition
14 Isabel La Roche Godwin Preserve, Bolton 112 acres Fee Acquisition 15 White Cedar Swamp, Gull Bay Addition, Putnam 65 acres Fee Acquisition 16 Beaver Pond, Last Great Shoreline Addition, Putnam 73 acres Fee Acquisition 17 East Brook Preserve, Lake George 12 acres
Fee Acquisition
18 Leeming Jelliffe Preserve, Dresden 33 acres Fee Acquisition
10 Rose’s Cabin, Bolton 67 acres
Fee Acquisition
Donation
11 South Mountain 1, Putnam 140 acres
Fee Acquisition
12 Indian Brook Uplands, Bolton 130 acres
Fee Acquisition
13 Flat Rock Addition, Putnam 12.4 acres
Fee Acquisition
14 South Mountain 2, Ticonderoga 49 acres
Fee Acquisition
15 Wing Pond, Bolton 159 acres
Fee Acquisition
16 Sugar Loaf Foothills, Fort Ann 15 acres
Donation
17 Pilot Knob Pocket, Fort Ann 0.35 acres
Donation
18 Bolton Uplands Addition, Bolton 3 acres
Donation
♦
Transfer from The Nature Conservancy
Parks and Preserves with trails: The LGLC creates and maintains more than 38 miles of trails for year-round recreation, including hiking, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, and, at some preserves, hunting and snowmobiling. With educational signage and hands-on activities, these trails provide an opportunity for guests of all ages and backgrounds to learn about Lake George, land conservation, and its connection to water quality.
Conservation Easement and Deed Restricted lands currently protected by the LGLC
#
Lands protected/assisted by the LGLC and sold or donated to NYS; or protected by other partners
#
1
Margaret Boyd Rowan Preserve, Putnam 168 acres • 4,470 feet of shoreline Fee Acquisition
1
Dark Bay, Queensbury 1 acre • 300 feet of shoreline
Donation
2
Lamb Shanty Bay Uplands, Putnam 478 acres • Deed Restrictions held by TNC
2
Federal Hill Road, Bolton 95 acres
Donation
3
Racket Point Shoreline, Putnam 8 acres • 150 feet of shoreline
3
Silver Bay Uplands, Hague 21 acres
Donation
4
Prospect Mountain Addition, Lake George 77 acres
4
Silver Bay Road, Hague 59 acres
Donation
5
Jabe Pond Trailhead, Hague 125 acres
Fee Acquisition
5
Bolton Uplands, Bolton 175 acres
Donation
6
Spruce Mountain, Dresden 366 acres
Donation
6
Queensbury Subdivision, Queensbury 136 acres • Deed Restrictions
Donation
7
Northeastern Shoreline, Dresden 300 acres • 6,645 feet of shoreline
7
Hague Bat Hibernacula, Hague 282 acres
Donation
8
Flat Rock Camp Shoreline, Ticonderoga 244 acres • 5,460 feet of shoreline Fee Acquisition
8
Assembly Point, Queensbury 12 acres
Donation
9
Lamb Shanty Bay Shoreline, Putnam 60 acres • 2,530 feet of shoreline
9
Gaslight Village, Lake George 11.5 acres
Donation
10 Last Great Shoreline, Putnam 70 acres • Deed Restrictions
Fee Acquisition
11 Hague Brook 1, Hague 24 acres
Donation
12 Edgecomb Pond Rd, Bolton 83 acres
Donation
13 Hague Brook 2, Hague 6 acres
Donation
14 The Pinnacle, Bolton* 73 acres
Fee Acquisition
15 Diamond Point Uplands, Bolton 49 acres
Donation
16 Huletts Landing, Dresden 3.7 acres
Fee Acquisition
10 Roger’s Rock, Hague 41 acres • 2,230 feet of shoreline
Fee Acquisition
Fee Acquisition Donation
Fee Acquisition
Fee Acquisition Donation
11 Pole Hill Pond Forest Preserve, Bolton* 1,307 acres Fee Acquisition 12 Pole Hill Pond Forest Preserve Addition, Bolton* 41 acres Fee Acquisition 13 Thomas Mountain, Bolton Landing* 1,090 acres 14 Cat Mountain, Bolton Landing* 816 acres 15 Berry Pond Preserve, Lake George 1,436 acres 16 Cat Mountain Addition, Bolton Landing* 3 acres
Fee Acquisition Fee Acquisition Fee Acquisition Donation
*The LGLC maintains more than 17 miles of trails on these properties through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Trail Cooperative Agreement program and in partnership with the Town of Bolton.
30th Anniversary Special Addition
Protecting the Land that Protects the Lake
Celebrating 30 Ye
of Land Conservation and Water Quality P
This graph illustrates the acres of land protected by the LGLC or with assistance from the LGLC since 1988—
a total of 10,867 acres and 6.6 miles of Lake George shoreline. In addition to lake shoreline, these properties also provide the permanent protection of more than 2 miles of major stream corridors, and another 15 miles of minor and seasonal stream corridors throughout the watershed.
Dedication of the Margaret Boyd Rowan Preserve (added to the NYS Forest Preserve in 1994)
LGBLC moves to Bolton Landing; first office is purchased at 5 Dula Place.
7 2 4 2 3
1
2
1
1990
89 3
1 5 4 11
1
13 5 2
7 6 12
34
10
6 5
1
1995
2000
YEA
ears
ACRES OF LAND 9, 10 11, 12, 13
Protection
14
AR
Dedication of the Lynn LaMontagne Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob
10 Grand Opening of the Macionis Family Center for Conservation
3
8 6 5 4
9 15
Dedication of Peggy’s Point
10
9 8
8 13 12 14 12 13 7 11 11
14 14
12,000
16 16 15 17 18 17 18 15 15 16
10,000
16
8,000
7
6
6,000
4,000
2,000
2005
2010
2015
0
$19
Provides nearly
million
invested
annually in Eco-Services
{
30th Anniversary Special Addition
$3 million
10,867 acres conserved
forever
plus $8 million in donated properties and conservation easements
$39 million
That’s more than in ecosystem services provided over our 30 year history. Estimated annual value of natural goods and services per land cover type:
1 acre Woods
1 acre Pond
1 acre Wetland
$210 $235 $1,450
clean air clean water wildlife habitat stormwater & flood management
Wetlands, ponds, forested woodlands and other types of land cover provide natural goods and services, or “ecosystem services,” that have significant economic value. That value is calculated from services such as: water quality and quantity protection, including stormwater control; reduced air pollution; carbon sequestration; and habitat protection for various wildlife. Additional economic benefits of land conservation, not included in the ecoservice calculation, come from: forestry, agriculture, and commercial fishing; tourism and outdoor recreation; economic development, by maintaining the scenic beauty of the state, improving quality of like for residents, and enabling the state to attract and maintain new businesses and high-quality workers; avoided costs on infrastructure and municipal services, and; human health benefits by providing space for physical exercise for adults and children.
When forests and wetlands do their natural job, the annual financial burden can be lessened for governments and nonprofit organizations working to ensure that the water quality of the lake is protected. The up-front costs of acquiring these lands becomes minimal when compared with the perpetual contribution that these acres provide in terms of services to protect the local environment each year. While man-made solutions can be effective, by allowing the land to protect the water quality of the lake, we are utilizing the most efficient and cost effective method of water quality protection. For example: streams, which provide 55% of the water entering Lake George, also deliver sediment, nutrients and pollutants. Wetlands provide a buffer before a stream reaches the lake. As runoff and surface water pass through, wetlands remove or transform pollutants through physical, chemical, and biological processes. Water storage by wetlands can also lower flood heights and reduce the destructive powers of floodwaters. Forests and other protected lands similarly contribute services
that make a financial impact on the local environment. Forests purify water by stabilizing soils and filtering contaminants; regulate the quantity of available water and seasonal flow; defray the costs of erosion-related damage; and improve air quality by absorbing carbon, releasing oxygen, and filtering particulates. Forests that buffer streams, known as riparian forests, trap and retain up to 80% of the sediment that would otherwise travel downstream to the lake and contribute harmful substances to our waterways, including nitrogen and phosphorus. The eco-service values presented here are the result of an intensive economic analysis of the return on New Hampshire’s investment in land conservation, conducted by The Trust for Public Land in 2014. It is important to note that their calculations do not include services such as tourism, nor does the study attempt to calculate less tangible values such as option value, bequest value, existence value, spiritual value, and aesthetic value, all of which would presumably increase the ecosystem value and therefore show a greater return on investment.
Thirty years ago a group of forward-thinking people created this organization to protect the land that protects Lake George. They were responding to a growing need that the community had identified in the 1980’s; a need to ensure that the lake’s water remained clean, the shorelines pristine, its views unspoiled, critical habitats protected, and traditional places kept intact. Peg Olsen, today the executive director of the Adirondack Chapter of The Nature Conservancy (ANC) and member of the LGLC board of directors, recounted that over thirty years ago, people were scrambling to find a solution to ensure that Lake George was protected from overdevelopment of the watershed. Existing regulations were not helping the problem and the lake was suffering.
Former LGLC President David Darrin (left) and former Executive Director Lynn Schumann (right) presented the Henry M. Rowan Conservation Award to Mr. Rowan (center) during the 4th Land and Water Conservation Celebration in 2003.
“We needed a local entity outside of government to work with voluntary landowners to conserve in perpetuity those undeveloped landscapes that are essential in protecting the water quality and scenic values that ultimately drive the economic engine of the region,” Peg concluded.
Ultimately, through the determination and cooperation of committed individuals from ANC and the Adirondack Land Trust (ALT), the Lake George Association Fund (now the FUND for Lake George), and other partners and supporters, the Lake George Basin Land Conservancy was created in 1988. (Its name would later be simplified to the Lake George Land Conservancy in 2000.) “It had to be done,” said Tim Barnett, long time Adirondack conservationist, citing the need to create a land trust to protect Lake George. At the time, Tim was the executive director of the ALT/ANC and instrumental in the early days of the LGLC. On the way to protecting 11,000 acres, the organization completed many memorable transactions supported by selfless, generous individuals. Virginia Rowan Smith recalled the project that brought her family and her together with the Lake George Land Conservancy. In the 1980’s land across from Silver Bay was threatened by development, so LGLC Executive Director Mike Carr, with Board President Mark Johnson, approached the people of Silver Bay looking for help to protect the pristine waterfront property. Ginny remembered how the community came together for the important cause, “including children offering the money in their piggy banks” to save the land across the lake. A core group of people rallied others, including her father Henry
Tim Barnett (left) and former LGLC President Mark Johnson (right), in 1997, celebrating the protection of 300 acres, part of the northeastern conservation effort that included the Margaret Boyd Rowan Preserve.
Rowan, who offered a matching challenge that inspired some 600 donors to give. Their efforts ultimately succeeded with the creation of the Margaret Boyd Rowan Preserve in 1990. That land, which includes 4,470 feet of shoreline, is the centerpiece of more than three miles of protected shoreline that was the focus of a major cooperative conservation effort undertaken by the LGLC, the Silver Bay Association, the ANC and ALT, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Mr. Rowan’s example of inspiring others to do good things made an impression on Ginny, who has been on the LGLC’s Advisory Board since 2001. “Lake George is part of me,” she said. “We have a responsibility to make a difference.” She is passionate about protecting the quality of the water as a drinking source, keeping land forever wild, and protecting its natural state. Ginny and the Rowan family’s generosity, inspired by their love of the lake, have made an amazing impact on our work. “From my perspective,” reflected former LGLC Board President John Macionis, “everything that I
30th Anniversary Special Addition
A History of Conservation, A Legacy of Impact
30th Anniversary Special Addition
the Lake George Land Conservancy during its existence.”
Former LGLC Executive Director Nancy Williams with representatives from the NYS DEC, signing the sale of Cat and Thomas Mountains to the State in 2008.
can see across the lake, from Cook Mountain, Rogers’ Slide, South Mountain, Anthony’s Nose, the Last Great Shoreline, and Gull Bay—all of it has been protected by
He notes that although the LGLC has evolved over the years to rise to the challenge of taking on more projects, the organization’s essential philosophy has remained the same over the past three decades: “We work with willing landowners to undertake the vital work of protecting the land within this watershed.” Lisa Ryder, daughter of Jack Ryder, one of the founding board members of the organization, stopped by the office and offered that she believed that her father would be proud of what the Lake George Land Conservancy has accomplished over the
past thirty years. This is high praise and humbling and could only have been achieved because of the hard work, generosity, dedication, and commitment of so many people. As a land trust, our job is to look after land over time and protect the legacy of this special place. That includes the legacy of those who had the vision to create this organization. As with our protection of the land that protects the lake we will also adapt to the challenges that we face with the changing times. With the commitment and dedication of people like you, we will continue to make an impact on protecting Lake George for the next thirty years and beyond.
Organizational Milestones October 1988 Lake George Basin Land Conservancy (LGBLC) Certificate of Incorporation is formally filed. Dr. Peg R. Olsen continues to work for the Conservancy as a consultant from Environmental Communications Services. Adirondack Land Trust is contracted for technical support, including easement negotiations. Stephen T. Birdsall is the elected first president of the organization. November 1989
J. Mark Noordsey becomes the second president of the LGBLC Board of Directors.
Michael T. Carr is hired as the LGBLC’s first full-time executive director.
January 1990
May 1993
Dr. Mark C. Johnson becomes the third president of the LGBLC’s Board of Directors.
May 1999
Lynn LaMontagne Schumann is hired as the LGBLC’s second executive director.
July 2000 First Land and Water Conservation Celebration held at the Lake George Club.
October 2000
Organization changes its logo and removes “Basin” from its name.
August 2001
David Darrin becomes the fourth president of the LGLC’s Board of Directors.
August 2003
Inaugural Henry M. Rowan Conservation Award presented at the Lake George Club to Mr. Rowan during the 4th Land and Water Conservation Celebration.
December 2004
Dr. Dean Cook becomes the fifth president of the LGLC’s Board of Directors.
January 2006
Dr. John J. Macionis becomes the sixth president of the LGLC’s Board of Directors.
Nancy Williams is hired as the LGLC’s third executive director.
July 2006
September 2006
Ground-breaking ceremony for the future Macionis Family Center for Conservation.
January 2008
The LGLC becomes a fully independent organization after ending its contract with The Nature Conservancy and removing itself as a supported organization of The FUND for Lake George.
First Apperson Society awards presented during the Land and Water Conservation Celebration.
August 2010
July 2013 First Lake George Hike-A-Thon held to celebrate the LGLC’s 25th anniversary.
August 2014
The LGLC achieves Land Trust Accreditation status from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance.
January 2015
Jamie K. Brown is hired as the LGLC’s fourth and current executive director.
August 2017
October 2018
Michael O’Reilly becomes the seventh and current president of the LGLC’s Board of Directors. The LGLC turns 30!
For a complete list of LGLC Board Members throughout our history, please go to www.lglc.org/about.
Von Werne Joins Board This summer, the LGLC welcomed the addition Robert Von Werne to its Board of Directors. Robert’s introduction to the LGLC was as a hopeful participant in the Walk on Water a few years ago. Though it was cancelled because of a lack of ice, the event intrigued Robert enough to become involved. A long-time visitor to the Bolton Landing area, Robert lives on Long Island where he works in law enforcement. He earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Marist College, and has extensive experience with land trusts throughout the country thanks to his involvement with a philanthropic association devoted to conservation causes. He brings a great perspective to the organization, along with a heart-felt and sincere love of the lake. “For as long as I can remember,” said Robert, “Lake George was the highlight of my family’s summers. Many of my fondest and most vivid childhood memories were made at the lake. These days, I’m doing my best to create great memories for my own children here. By pitching in at the LGLC, I plan to do my part to care for the lake and the land around it so that future generations can enjoy it just as I have. I am also eager to instill a sense of conservationism and service in my children through my work at the LGLC.” He continued, “Theodore Roosevelt said that ‘the nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value.’ It’s with this spirit that I look forward to performing my duties at the LGLC.”
NextGen Happenings After celebrating its one-year anniversary in April, the LGLC’s Next Generation Committee (NextGen) kicked off the summer with a Summer Solstice Soiree at Blue Water Manor on June 21. This outreach event, which had about 50 people in attendance, provided an opportunity for people to meet our committee members and learn more about the ideas, goals and events that the group is passionate about. Throughout the spring and summer, NextGen organized a series of Walks & Talks at LGLC preserves, which were led by experienced guides, some of whom are also committee members. These NextGen committee members at the outings highlighted the Summer Solstice Soiree. educational (and fun) opportunities that our land provides for all ages. Towards the end of the summer, the committee shifted focus to promote and organize the second annual Amy’s Adventure Race for the Lake on September 29, a challenging and rugged trail run at Amy’s Park. The race continues to expand our network of supporters and friends as it appeals to an audience of sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers, and allows an opportunity to partner with sponsors as well as the community. Once Amy’s Race is complete, NextGen members will have a chance to refocus on the committee’s goals and dive deeper into how it can make a difference for the lake and for our communities. As valued representatives of our organization and essential members of our lake community, we welcome new friends to join the NextGen committee at any time. For more information and to join, email mvidarte@lglc.org.
Lemonade for Land Aid This summer, we were honored by a visit by Alice and Birch Agovino, two young entrepreneurs who wished to donate the proceeds of their lemonade stand to the LGLC. They proudly handed over a jar filled with $73.90.
As explained by their mother, Moriah, “They wanted to have a lemonade stand and my mother, Pamela Rottier, suggested they donate the proceeds to LGLC, which they were very happy to do.”
The siblings (pictured) are fourth generation Lake George lovers; their family has a summer home in Hague.
And we are very happy they did! The cliché, “every penny counts,” is true—thank you, Alice and Birch! LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
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FIELD NOTES
Stewardship: Land and People
by LGLC Land Steward, Alex Novick Stewardship is an important component to conservation, just as creating connections and relationships is a component to stewardship. With all of the extensive knowledge needed to maintain a healthy watershed, it couldn’t possibly be done without the help of friends, partners and volunteers of the Lake George Land Conservancy. When projects and ideas start to evolve, it is necessary to engage the communities that are directly impacted. This may require specialized experts; which could include private citizens, municipalities, government agencies, schools, businesses and other like-minded organizations. This form of outreach ensures that not only do we have a pipeline of data and information, but a means to solve problems as a community with a common goal. We at the LGLC have been fortunate to have an extensive core group of friends that include scientists, foresters, gardeners, educators, volunteers, and various specialists who help guide us throughout the year. Having places to turn for advice is a huge advantage while developing stewardship plans and solving problems when they arise. Being a part of this Lake George collaboration also allows us to be there when we are needed. If there is one thing we have learned in the 30 years that the LGLC has existed, it is that community matters. Protecting the lake is a common goal and what we do to accomplish this can only be achieved through cooperation. Being responsible stewards to our properties requires a lot of research and physical labor. Without the help of all who support us, we would not be where we are today. Being our 30th anniversary, I want to thank all of those who have contributed to our success throughout the years, and have laid down a solid foundation for us to be successful in the future. 18
LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
Volunteer Stewards The 2018 summer season was the first for our Volunteer Trail Steward Program at the Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob. Four volunteer stewards helped to keep the trails clean, spoke with hikers on the mission of the LGLC, and encouraged guests to observe Leave No Trace principles. Two of the volunteers, Angela Salerno and Steve Schonwetter (pictured, left), offered the following reports on their experiences. Angela: “I started volunteering this summer with the LGLC because I love the trail by my house. I seem to see a lot of people like me hiking: women out with a friend or their dog looking for some exercise and a good view, but don’t have time for a long hike. I also see families, and that is wonderful. My message to others hikers would be to please practice Leave No Trace principles while hiking and in life. This means to stay on the trail, pick up after your dog, and if you carry it in carry it out, and please leave nature and the signs where they are. Happy hiking!” Steve: “I’m retired and I love Lake George and the mountains, so volunteering on Pilot Knob is enjoyable and convenient for me. Most hikers thank me for volunteering and thank the Land Conservancy for maintaining the beautiful trail. I do feel that I am making a difference by my presence on the mountain. Thank you Lake George Land Conservancy for giving me this opportunity to help out.” Our thanks go to all of the stewarding volunteers, who donated so many hours to ensuring the health of the trail and the enjoyment of its hikers! WANT TO HELP? Contact Monica, at 518-644-9673 or email mdore@lglc.org for more info about becoming a Volunteer Steward!
Phragmites Before
and After
Pilot Knob Makeover The Schumann Preserve at Pilot Knob’s much-needed makeover has begun! “Like many trails in the Adirondacks, these were originally logging roads that were not designed for recreational use,” said Eddie Walsh of Tahawus Trails, which was contracted to do the work. “The new design is one that will be sustainably built and easier to maintain, and still provide an interesting experience for hikers.” Starting in July, Eddie cleared the path of the new trail using a micro-excavator. When he was finished, seasonal trail workers came in to break and transport stone from the top of the mountain down, to be used to build stairs on the trail.
“We wanted to design a trail that is suitable for the user group here. This will be a more fun trail for hikers, and it will leave fewer chances for hikers to make their own herd paths and cause future damage to the preserve,” said Eddie. The crew from Tahawus has worked through the summer’s rain and intense heat and humidity to deliver on this portion of the restoration project, and this phase is set to be completed by late September. As restoration continues, preserve visitors are welcome to hike the existing marked trails at the preserve. Phase II of the project will resume in the summer of 2019.
Top: A griphoist and highline system was used to move large rocks. Bottom: New stone steps will help reduce erosion from stormwater and heavy foot-traffic.
More Than a Legal Document, CE’s Are a Partnership When the Bixby family bought property in Bolton in 2012, they were happy to accept the conservation easement that came with it. “We were comfortable with the conservation easement as we had no interest in subdividing the land,” said Ethan Bixby. “We like keeping it wild, and love the being the new caretakers.” The previous owners donated the conservation easement to the LGLC in 1990, and in doing so protected 90 acres of hardwood forest and wetlands from the threats of development. Conservation easements (or CE’s) are agreements between willing landowners and a land trust, like the LGLC, that limit certain types of uses or prevent development on the land, while keeping it in private hands. As the managers of a CE, the LGLC can also work with landowners to as-
sist with threats such as invasive species that may be on their land. In the case of the Bixby family, that threat is the invasive plant, Phragmites australis, or common reed. Commonly found in wetlands, common reed is a tall rigid grass with fluffy plumage at the top. It grows densely, outcompetes native plants, and has the potential to reduce a wetland’s ability to filter water. Over the years, what started as a small population on the property’s beaver pond grew into large, dense stands covering the beaver dam, and the native wetland plants began to disappear. For several years, LGLC’s land steward, who is a certified herbicide applicator, applied herbicide to each stem with a specially-designed tool. Although stem injection, as it’s called, is an arduous task, it effectively kills the targeted species without impacting
nearby vegetation. The change did not happen overnight, but the treatment has been effective, and this summer the site’s Phragmites has been 98% eradicated. (See before and after pictures on the facing page.) Native wetland species have started to return, and best of all, the invasive weeds were eradicated without impacting the beaver dam that holds water within the wetland. Moving forward, the wetland will be able to function to filter water, and will serve as valuable habitat for native plants and animals of the region. “The LGLC has been extremely helpful in fighting the Phragmites, and we feel like we are winning and almost have it eliminated from the property,” Ethan said. “I am not sure we could have eradicated it without the LGLC’s help.”
LGLC viewshed: Fall/Winter 2018
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250 Friends Join to Celebrate More than 250 people came out to join the Lake George Land Conservancy at its 30th Anniversary party, held at Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center in Bolton Landing on Saturday, August 18. The free, family event was organized to celebrate you, and every donor, volunteer, hike and event participant, landowner, and community partner who has been a part of our history. In addition to enjoying the expansive grounds of Up Yonda Farm, which is owned and managed by Warren County, guests were able to participate in a guided hike, learn about local raptors, experiment with a hands-on river model, color and make buttons and animal tracks, and get their faces painted. The Plaid Pancake, the Adirondack Pub and Brewery, and 9 Miles East provided a variety of tasty food, and each vendor donated a percent of the
2018 Stats: 596 registered participants 82 volunteers • 19 properties 43 miles travelled
Save the Date: Friday, July 5, 2019 7th Annual Hike-A-Thon Registration opens March 4 @ 9 am
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day’s proceeds back to the LGLC. There was also live music, played by local musician Dan Ladd, who is also no stranger to the LGLC. The Outdoors Editor for The Chronicle newspaper in Glens Falls and avid hunter, Dan presented a program on Adirondack hunting traditions during the LGLC’s Living Lands series in 2017. The staff was honored to take a few moments to present certificates of appreciation to our Volunteers of the Year. Kurt and Florrie Stoffel, and the Morrison Family (Dr. Joanne, David, and Sam Morrison) were recognized for their devotion to the LGLC through volunteerism at events and with general assistance throughout the year and in past years. A huge thanks to the volunteers who helped with the event, the staff at Up Yonda Farm, and everyone who came out to celebrate 30 years with us!
With the incredible generosity of 250 guests and sponsors, the LGLC’s annual gala, held August 3, 2018, raised more than $240,000 to support the LGLC’s mission to protect Lake George. Specifically, $130,000 of the total was contributed towards combating the invasive pest Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, protecting 140 acres along Indian Brook, and working with partners to protect 317 acres on French Mountain in the south basin. Thank you!
Save the Date: Friday, August 2, 2019 20th Annual Land & Water Conservation Celebration
Our thanks to Brayton Photography for capturing the evening. A full photo gallery can be seen at lglc.org/eventsand-programs/conservation-celebration
The Wolgin Family
September 29, 2018 4.5 mile trail race at Amy’s Park in Bolton Landing More info at www.lglc.org/events-and-programs/amys-race Day-of registration, $30 • Race starts at 9 AM • Hand-timing and results by Underdog Race Timing • Prizes: top 3 men & women receive hydration packs from Salomon • After party at Bolton Landing Brewing Co., 11 AM - 1 PM • Raffle includes trail running sneakers from Salomon, gift cards and more! Winner announced at 12:30 PM (must be present to win).
CLIF Bar | Tops Friendly Markets Raffle & Prize Sponsors: Cantina Saratoga | Silverwood Home & Gallery The Wind Chill Factory | Up Yonda Farm
Lake George Land Conservancy 4905 Lake Shore Drive P.O. Box 1250 Bolton Landing, NY 12814
Get out!
Stay connected! #HikeLakeGeorge /HikeLakeGeorge
Visit www.lglc.org/events-and-programs for more information about these and other LGLC happenings, and to register online. 2nd annual Amy’s Race for the Lake Sat., September 29 @ 7 am Amy’s Park, Bolton 4.5-mile race over the streams and through the woods of Amy’s Park. Prizes for top runners, raffle. Register in advance, $25; day-of, $30. After-party at Bolton Brewing Co. @ 11 am. www.lglc.org/events-and-programs/amys-race
HWA Volunteer Monitor Training November, Date TBD LGLC Center for Conservation, Bolton The LGLC is seeking more volunteers to assist with a watershed-wide monitoring effort as part of our early-detection plan for the invasive pest, the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). If interested, email Monica at mdore@lglc.org.
Owl Prowl with Alan Belford Sat., October 6 @ 5:30 - 8:30 pm Amy’s Park, Bolton A favorite with a twist —join ornithologist and educator Alan Belford for an evening trek in search of owls and other birds at the preserve.
Christmas Bird Count Sat., December 15 @ all day Sites Vary; Southern LG Basin Help count birds for this nation-wide Audubon program, organized locally by the LGLC.
Fall Foliage Hike Sat., October 13 @ 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Cat and Thomas Mts Preserve, Bolton Our annual 7-mile mod-challenging hike with experienced leader John Crist. Spectacular views from both summits, and along the way.
Scats and Tracks: Winter Tracking Sat., January 12 @ 11 am - 1 pm Amy’s Park, Bolton DEC Wildlife Technician Jessica Coulter will lead this winter edition of her popular search for tracks, scat, fur and other signs of wildlife.
@HikeLakeGeorge LGLC Cabin Fever Open House Thurs., January 17 @ 3 - 5 pm LGLC Center for Conservation, Bolton Stop in and say hello during our annual open house! Meet the staff, eat some treats, and learn about new projects in the works. Challenging Cross-Country Ski Sat., January 19 @ 9:30 am - 3 pm Cat and Thomas Mts Preserve, Bolton Guided x-c ski to both summits at Cat and Thomas Mts, led by David Thomas-Train. For advanced skiiers only. Alt. date: Feb. 2 Walk on Water to Dome Island Sat., February 16 @ 10 am & 2 pm LGLC Center for Conservation, Bolton Highly dependent on good ice conditions, this exclusive 1-mile trek across the lake to the protected Dome Island includes a visit to John Apperson’s plaque.