Land Stewardship

• Constructed improved parking areas at Ingalls and Staalesen Preserves.
• Partnered with Capital District Community Gardens and granted them garden plot at Staalesen Preserve.
• Received $17,000 Environmental Protection Fund Grant through Land Trust Alliance to fund boundary survey, signs, kiosk, and property maintenance at Staalesen Preserve in Troy.

Read more: Rensselaer Land Trust's 2012 Accomplishments and Highlights

On December 18, 2012, the Rensselaer Land Trust (RLT) received 54 acres of significant wetlands in the Town of Nassau from the National Audubon Society. Part of Pine Swamp, an extensive marsh and swamp complex adjacent to Smith Pond, the property contains wildlife habitat and supports unusual plant species for Rensselaer County. Located off of Lyons Lake Road, the property will remain a nature preserve, with public access for environmental studies and natural history outings.

"After a full evaluation, RLT's Board of Directors determined that this untouched property fell within our mission of watershed protection and conservation of ecologically important natural areas," said RLT Executive Director Christine Young.

Read more: Rensselaer Land Trust Receives New Preserve

Rensselaer Land Trust is pleased to announce that it has received a NYS Conservation Partnership Program Grant this year for $15,000. The NYS Conservation Partnership Program is funded by the state's Environmental Protection Fund and administered by the Land Trust Alliance, in coordination with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Rensselaer Land Trust will allocate the grant towards renewal of national accreditation and the development of a strategic plan, both of which will strengthen the organization. National accreditation signifies that the Rensselaer Land Trust meets national quality standards, upholds the public trust and ensures the permanence of conservation efforts.

Read more: Rensselaer Land Trust Receives New York State Conservation Partnership Program Grant