GUEST VIEWPOINT: Promise Kept: +320 Acres of Open Space Preserved in Rockland

We are exploring the creation of a new county park and expanded trail connections on this site, so families can directly benefit from this investment in our quality of life.

GUEST VIEWPOINT: Promise Kept: +320 Acres of Open Space Preserved in Rockland
Rockland County Executive Ed Day

When I first ran for County Executive, one of my commitments to Rockland families was to protect and preserve the open spaces that make our county such a special place to live. This week, I was proud to deliver on that promise in a historic way.

We have finalized the largest purchase in the history of Rockland County’s Open Space Acquisition Program: 236 acres known as the Eagle Valley Assemblage in Sloatsburg. This rare, undeveloped property will protect our water resources, preserve wildlife habitats, and provide new opportunities for outdoor recreation.

As someone who always enjoyed Rockland’s natural beauty, I know how important it is to safeguard these spaces for future generations. With this acquisition the county hopes to establish a connection and corridor of the undeveloped land between Sterling Forest and Harriman State Parks while also safeguarding critical water resources.

This success did not happen in isolation. It was made possible through strong partnerships with the Open Space Institute, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and New York State Parks. Thanks to a $2.74-million Highlands Conservation Act grant, we can replenish our Open Space Acquisition Fund and continue preserving even more land in the years ahead.

Our Open Space Acquisition Program was first launched in 1999 by former County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef, but was suspended during the recession in 2010. In 2019, my administration, with the support of the County Legislature, revived the program because I knew Rocklanders wanted action on this issue. Since its revival, including Eagle Valley, we’ve preserved 323 acres.

We are exploring the creation of a new county park and expanded trail connections on this site, so families can directly benefit from this investment in our quality of life.

The opportunity to protect land of this size in Rockland County is extraordinarily rare. This acquisition represents the power of collaboration — between government, environmental organizations, and the residents who nominate properties for protection. Together, we are leaving a legacy of preservation that will benefit our county for generations to come.

This is more than just open space. It’s about keeping a promise to the people of Rockland, protecting what matters most, and ensuring that the beauty of our county endures for our children and grandchildren.

About the author: Ed Day is the County Executive of Rockland County.

Author
Ed Day

Rockland County Executive

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