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

These were the opening words of Sean Rowe as he led twenty-five people on a foraging outing at the East Greenbush Town Park on Saturday May 10. The first activity of the morning was to a taste a wild mustard pesto made with butternuts-Yum! Using a traditional digging stick, Sean explained what parts of various plants were edible, when the best time of year to harvest them is, and key identifying characteristics. Just as importantly, he pointed out what not to pick and why. In a free-ranging discussion that included forays into the philosophy of foraging, traditional uses for various plants, whether the "float test" for the goodness of nuts was valid, and the logistics and methods of turning red oak acorns into gluten-free flour, the afternoon adventure was a source of inspiration and laughter. As Sean noted, while knowing some botany is very helpful, the main difference between botanists and foragers is that "foragers have more fun."

For those of you who missed this workshop, Sean has agreed to an encore performance. By being on this e-Blast list, you will be the first to find out when!