FRESHWATER PRIORITIZATION
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Freshwater Prioritization
Over the last year, CNYLT has been partnering with The Nature Conservancy to develop a Freshwater Resources Strategy for the region. TNC's Freshwater Resources team has helped map out priority areas, hosted workshops, and assisted the Land Trust to better understand the unique resources in our region.
More coming soon!
Central New York is home to a number of priority creeks, lakes and wetlands that together drain a largeer area of the Great Lakes watershed. Priority lakes include Skaneateles, Otisco and Oneida Lake. Regional planning efforts are moving forward to create implementation plans for each subbasin, with priority actions that include saving more land, addressing erosion and runoff from major storms, and assessing stream crossings to determine places where culverts and bridges need to be redesigned. CNYLT is committed to participating in regional planning efforts, and developing projects at our nature preserves that will help our region plan for increasingly severe storms and flooding events.
If you'd like to learn more or get involved, please contact our Land Stewardship Team at stewardship@cnylandtrust.org.
Pleasant Valley Preserve
Pleasant Valley Preserve underwent a big transformation in the summer of 2022 with the help of Onondaga Environmental Institute and the Onondaga Lake Recovery Fund.
A large bridge replaced the gravel walkway and culvert system that traversed a portion of the west branch of Onondaga Creek, which was consistently plugged by beaver debris.
The original culvert was a pinch point for waterflow, flooding the walkway completely, and at times blocking animal passage.
The new bridge has enabled a healthy flow of water through Onondaga Creek, and unimpeded movement of aquatic life, which can be easily observed from the bridge overlook. It is also a beautiful improvement to the preserve and a focal point for visitors.
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Three Falls Woods
Three Falls Woods has become one of the Land Trust's most visited nature preserves. Continued work on improving trails and addressing erosion are important to make sure people have a safe experience. CNYLT is also reviewing parking needs and preparing to engage neighbors and the Town of Manlius to discuss ways to improve access to the preserve and limit roadside parking. If you're looking to visit Three Falls on the weekend, get there early before the lot fills up!
More to come soon.
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High Hickory Wildlife Sanctuary
High Hickory is one of several nature preserves CNYLT is working to improve this year. Please reach out to our Land Stewardship team if you'd like to be involved in Volunteer Work Days or getting trained as a volunteer steward. You can reach our team at stewardship@cnylandtrust.org.
