60 Years of Saving The Land for Life
Timeline of Mohonk Preserve
The Mohonk Trust is created 60 years ago
The Mohonk Trust is officially established with the signing of the Trust Agreement by the original group of trustees and the receipt of the first donation of $100 from Mabel Craven Smiley.
Photo: Boundary sign with the TMT logo from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Dan Smiley and A. Keith Smiley are named co-administrators of The Mohonk Trust
Photo: Dan Smiley and A. Keith Smiley from the Mohonk Preserve archives
The Mohonk Trust acquires the 487-acre Trapps parcel, a gift from the Lake Mohonk Corporation
With the acquisition of this parcel, The Mohonk Trust becomes the steward of the most important climbing area in the eastern United States and a valued contributor to the development of American mountaineering.
Photo: Trapps Cliff by Frank Tkac
First Spongy moth study plot is established on Trust lands
The evolving accommodation of the forest to the Spongy moth without pesticides draws many scientists to the area. Currently, the Preserve has an active invasive species monitoring program with volunteer opportunities.
Photo: Spongy moth from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives.
Dr. Stephen Collins of SUNY New Paltz begins using the Undercliff area as an outdoor laboratory for his Advanced Ecology class
Mohonk Preserve offers a multi-faceted opportunity for college faculty and students to engage in a broad spectrum of scientific, educational, cultural, and socio-economic studies. Study at Mohonk Preserve can transform the lives of students of all ages and serve as a training ground for the next generation of scientific leaders.
Photo: Trust Founder and Co-Administrator Dan Smiley and Research Associate Carl George leading an outdoor educational program for a group of students from Union College. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives.
The Mohonk Trust acquires the 687-acre Oakwood parcel, a gift from the Lake Mohonk Corporation
Oakwood Drive is one of many carriage roads enjoyed by visitors for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.
Photo: Visitor biking on Oakwood Drive by John Mizel
Dan Smiley and Frank Egler publish the Trust’s first educational pamphlet, “The Natural History of Undercliff Road”
This publication interprets the importance of Trust land to visitors.
Photo: Pamphlet cover from the Mohonk Preserve archives
The Mohonk Trust purchases the 1,287-acre Millbrook parcel
This parcel is the first of 5,000 acres to be purchased from the Lake Mohonk Corporation over a 15-year period.
Photo: Looking out toward Sky Top from the Millbrook parcel by Michael Neil O’Donnell
The Mohonk Trust purchases the 859-acre Clove parcel
This parcel includes Split Rock, which is an ideal spot for cooling off by the Coxing Kill stream or for quiet reflection.
Photo: Split Rock on the Coxing Kill stream by John Hayes
The Mohonk Trust purchases the 1,167-acre Bonticou parcel
Bonticou Crag is a popular hiking destination with a rock scramble and stunning vistas.
Photo: Bonticou Crag by Michael Neil O’Donnell
Rev. Winslow Shaw serves as Chairman of the Board
Rev. Winslow Shaw was a signatory to The Mohonk Trust agreement in 1963 and served as Chairman of the Board from 1970-1974. He retired from the board of Mohonk Preserve in 1984.
Photo: Rev. Winslow Shaw from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives
The Trust collaborates in planning for Minnewaska State Park Preserve
The Trust participates with New York State and The Nature Conservancy in planning for the neighboring Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
Photo: Waterfall on the Peterskill stream at Minnewaska State Park Preserve by John Mizel
The Mohonk Trust sponsors a peacekeeping seminar with the International Peace Academy of the United Nations
The Trust sponsors seminars at Lake Mohonk to promote cultural understanding and environmental awareness.
Photo: From left to right – Rev. Winslow Shaw, Chairman of the Board of The Mohonk Trust; U Thant, UN Secretary General, A. Keith Smiley, Jr., Trustee of The Mohonk Trust, and Major General Indar Jit Rikhy, President of the International Peace Academy at a Trust conference. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives.
The Mohonk Trust hires first year-round employees
Thom Scheuer is hired as the first full-time ranger and holds this position until his death in 1999. Previously, the Trust’s work was accomplished by trustees, volunteers, and hourly employees.
Photo: Head Ranger Thom Scheuer from the Mohonk Preserve archives
A precipitation collector is established on Trust property
The study of water chemistry – in lakes, streams, and springs, as well as rain and snow – establishes the topic of acid rain as a major research interest.
Photo: Trust Founder and Co-Administrator Dan Smiley taking samples at the acid rain collector. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives
Bradley Snyder joins The Mohonk Trust as Co-administrator and later serves as Executive Director
Bradley Snyder was hired as assistant administrator for The Mohonk Trust in 1973 and served as co-administration with Dan Smiley for many years. In 1981 when The Mohonk Trust was reorganized as Mohonk Preserve, Inc., Brad became executive director, serving until 1985.
Photo: Cover of The Shawangunk Mountains: A History of Nature and Man by Bradley Snyder and Karl Beard. Published by Mohonk Preserve in 1981.
The Mohonk Trust purchases the 519-acre Duck Pond parcel
Duck Pond is a haven for wildlife and a study site for groups and summer camps.
Photo of Duck Pond by Susan Lehrer
The Mohonk Land Ethic is published in the TMT newsletter
The Mohonk Trust founders pledge to “reemphasize the humanitarian concern for life and to promote the integration of spiritual values with physical needs and mental activities both in man’s relationship to his physical environment and the interrelationship of humans.”
Photo: The Mohonk Trust Newsletter No. 20, Spring 1974
Preserve names Sara S. Senior as Chairman of the Board
In 1969, Sara S. Senior was appointed a Trustee of The Mohonk Trust. She had been a frequent visitor to the Mountain House, where her husband, Dr, John Senior, served as House Physician during August for many years. In 1975, she was named Chairman of the Board, succeeding Rev. Winslow D. Shaw, who remained a Trustee.
Photo: Sara Senior from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Peregrine falcons return to the ridge for the first time since 1957
With the extinction of peregrine falcons throughout the Northeast due to the effect of the pesticide DDT on their reproductive systems, efforts are made to reintroduce peregrines using captive-bred chicks from Cornell University.
Photo: Research Associate Dr. Heinz Meng (right) of SUNY New Paltz and a colleague banding a peregrine falcon for release. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives.
First Mohonk Trust Open House Day
Neighbors are invited to join Trust staff for a walk and talk on the property. Carrying on this tradition, the Preserve offers free or low cost public programs throughout the year and free one-month memberships twice a year to all Ulster County residents.
Photo: Trust Founder and Co-Administrator Dan Smiley leading a nature walk on Trust property from the Daniel Smiley Research Center archives
Fishers are reintroduced as a top predator
With the recovery of hemlock-northern hardwood forests and a burgeoning Porcupine population, Dan Smiley collaborates with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to reintroduce Fishers to Preserve lands. The first Fisher, a young male weighing 7.7 pounds with card tag number one, is released in the Rhododendron Swamp area.
Photo: Fisher by Clay Spencer
The Mohonk Trust becomes Mohonk Preserve, Inc.
Mohonk Preserve transitions from a charitable trust to a non-profit corporation.
Photo: Announcement of the establishment of Mohonk Preserve, Inc.
The Court of Appeals unanimously ruled in favor of tax exempt status for the Trust
The Appeals ruling becomes a landmark case in New York conservation and property tax law.
Photo: Mohonk Preserve lands by Dafna Tal
Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center is established
The Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center houses over a century of unparalleled research, collections, and natural and cultural history data.
Photo: Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center by Justin Key
Black vultures are sighted at the Preserve
The arrival of the black vulture makes the Preserve its most northerly known location in the United States. Preserve Research Associate Joe Bridges is the first to document the bird’s breeding in 1997, and continues to study how this generally southern resident is able to expand its range, complete its breeding cycle, and feed, forage, and carry out other activities.
Photo: Black vulture with chicks by Bob Elsinger
The Mohonk Trust is reorganized into Mohonk Preserve, Inc.
When The Mohonk Trust was reorganized into Mohonk Preserve, Inc., a nonprofit corporation in 1981, Sara S. Senior was named that organizations first President. Bradley J. Snyder was named Executive Director. The Preserve’s stated mission at that time was “to protect important natural lands in the Shawangunks Mountains, and to advance the cause of peace based on an understanding of the interdependence of mankind, nations, and the natural environment.”
Photo: Previous Mohonk Preserve logo from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Mohonk Preserve purchases the 287-acre Spring Farm parcel
This parcel, eventually known as the Spring Farm Trailhead, is home to the Slingerland Pavilion and Lenape Longhouse and is often used for education programs and special events.
Photo: View of the Catskill Mountains from Spring Farm fields by David Ramage
The Preserve marks its 20th year
The Preserve looks back on its 20th anniversary with a special newsletter publication.
Photo: The Mohonk Preserve Newsletter No. 61, Summer 1984
Record-breaking day set for the Hawk Watch at the Near Trapps lookout
Hawk Watch participants count a total of 1,145 Broadwings with 451 passing overhead in a single peak hour, setting the record up to this date. The standing record for the Hawk Watch is set five years later on September 16, 1989 with a count of 5,361 Broadwings. The Hawk Watch, officially established in 1974 by Research Associate Dr. Heinz Meng and Dan Smiley, is a vital program for observing the migration of birds over the Shawangunks and collecting important research data.
Photo:Red-tailed Hawk in flight by David Johnson
Mohonk Preserve initiates an outdoor environmental education program with the New Paltz Central School District
This sequential education program is recognized by the New York State Education Department as conforming to the core science curriculum requirements for grades kindergarten through six.
Photo: Educator Ann Guenther working with a student on a Field Study visit by Scott Wynn
Seward Weber joins the Preserve as Executive Director
Seward Weber joined the Preserve as executive director in March of 1985, succeeding Bradley Weber. Previously Seward had been the director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council. He served until his retirement in 1993.
Photo: Seward Weber at Bonticou Lodge Headquarters, circa 1993. Provided by Director of Research Emeritus Paul Huth.
Mohonk Preserve and Mohonk Mountain House are together officially designated a National Historic Landmark
Landmark designation by the U.S. Department of the Interior is awarded to a building, site, or structure that is officially recognized by the United States government for its national historical significance. The award is designed to recognize and honor the nation’s cultural and historical heritage.
Photo: Aerial view of Mohonk Preserve and Mohonk Mountain House lands by John Hayes
Preserve is instrumental in placing the Eastern Woodrat on the New York State endangered species list
Dan Smiley writes a letter to the Department of Environmental Conservation expressing concern about the woodrat’s disappearance from the Shawangunks. As a result, New York State declares the Eastern woodrat an endangered species and begins a breeding program.
Photo: DEC staff releasing Woodrats on the Preserve as part of a Woodrat study from the Mohonk Preserve Archives
The Preserve marks its 25th year
The Preserve commemorates its 25th anniversary with the publication of “The Northern Shawangunks: An Ecological Survey,” by Erik Kiviat, with illustrations by Karl Beard and photos by Hardie Truesdale.
Photo: “The Northern Shawangunks” cover
First Junior Naturalist program is offered at the Preserve
The first summer program serves 30 third, fourth, and fifth graders, eventually growing to serve 85 seven to thirteen-year-olds as Camp Peregrine and Mountainside Adventures.
Photo: Nature Guide Diana Wilson leading the Junior Naturalists in an outdoor activity from the Mohonk Preserve archives.
Preserve hosts 20th anniversary Earth Day celebration
Nearly 1,000 visitors arrive throughout the day to enjoy ongoing activities including guided walks, live reptile and amphibian presentations, art projects for kids, composting demonstrations, and a peregrine falcon flying demonstration by Dr. Heinz Meng.
Photo: Research Associate Roland Bahret presenting a live reptile program at the 1990 Earth Day celebration from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Access Fund holds first Climbers’ Rendezvous at the Preserve
Over 400 climbers attend and Mohonk Preserve and Access Fund board members discuss mutual concerns about climbing practices and policies. In 1989, the Preserve Board adopted a Statement of Policy about climbing addressing issues of access, facilities, and environmental protection.
Photo: Visitor climbing at the Trapps, circa early 1990s from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Lenape Longhouse is constructed at Spring Farm
The Lenape Longhouse serves as a focal point for education programs about Native Americans in the region. In 2006, the Longhouse is reconstructed using more durable materials.
Photo: Lenape Longhouse by Kathy Ambrosini
Schaefer Research Internship is established
Vincent J. Schaefer, a renowned atmospheric scientist, and his wife, Lois P. Schaefer, set up a fund to provide a 10-week internship at the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center.
Photo: First Schaefer Research Intern Anne G. Rhoads from the Mohonk Preserve archives.
Off-road parking area created at the West Trapps Trailhead
This parking area eliminates the need for on-road parking at the Trapps, the most frequently used Preserve trailhead. The parking site chosen is an abandoned stretch of the Old Wawarsing Turnpike providing reasonably level terrain with no loss of mature trees. Before work is begun, much of the shrubbery is temporarily relocated for future plantings around the perimeter.
Photo: Dedication ceremony for the West Trapps Parking area from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Glenn D. Hoagland started work as Executive Director of Mohonk Preserve
Glenn Hoagland joins the Preserve as executive director with an extensive background in administrative and field experience in land trust and acquisition in the Hudson Valley. Glenn’s title would ultimately be President and CEO when he left the Preserve in 2019 after leading the organization for over 26 years.
Photo: Executive Director Glenn Hoagland circa 1993 by Jim Bogner
Hans Kraus and Fritz Wiessner are honored at a ceremony at the Uberfall
Hans and Fritz, preeminent rock climbers and world renowned mountaineers, are pioneers of climbing in the Gunks. Fritz is credited with putting in the first known climbing route in the Gunks at Millbrook Mountain. At the dedication, Hans remarks that he and Fritz climbed together as friends for the sheer joy of the physical accomplishments and to be as one with their surroundings.
Photo: Hans Kraus from the Mohonk Preserve archives
NatureAccess® program is launched
This program promotes the inclusion of school children with disabilities in outdoor field studies. Its success leads to inclusive summer camps, public programs, nature walks, and accessible services for visitors of all abilities.
Photo: Student with special needs participating in a Preserve outdoor Field Study by Bob Babb
Mohonk Preserve Education Department, in partnership with Mohonk Consultations, hosts an Environmental Values Conference
This conference brings together naturalists, educators, land managers, politicians, economists, and others to discuss the role of Environmental Values Education within school curricula and outdoor environmental education programs.
Photo: Conference attendees participating in a Native American presentation from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Mohonk Preserve designates a volunteer as the Director of Volunteers to help with the recruitment, training and placement of the growing ranks of volunteers
The volunteer program continues to grow and presently has nearly 400 participants who perform a wide variety of services and contribute over 13,000 hours of their energy and skills annually.
Photo: First Director of Volunteers John Macek (third from right) participating in a volunteer trailkeeper training at the Preserve Visitor Center on Mountain Rest Road. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve archives.
100th anniversary of the Mohonk Lake Cooperative Weather Station is celebrated
Weather readings began at Mohonk in the mid-1880s and are now continued by Preserve research staff. Researchers need access to reliable data covering the longest period possible to identify the extent of global climate change. The Preserve’s weather data is dependable because the station has been in the same, comparatively stable location for over a century and the same protocol has been followed by the people involved in collecting the data.
Photo: Rain gauge at the Mohonk Mountain House boat wharf, circa 1909-1920. Photo from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives.
Cliff rescue training for rangers is initiated
The Preserve recognizes the need for a well-trained cliff rescue team and implements a one-day-a-week training for rangers from April through September annually. The Preserve now has one of the premier vertical rescue teams in the country.
Photo: Rangers conducting a cliff rescue training by Thom Scheuer
First Pfalz Point Trail Challenge to benefit the Preserve is held
The Pfalz Point Trail Challenge is a 10-mile trail run held each September at Spring Farm and helps support all operations of the Preserve, from maintaining trails, to educating underserved children.
Photo: Runners at the starting line of the 1997 Pfalz Point race by Mary Burns
First Benefit Auction is held
The Annual Benefit Auction is launched under the leadership of Preserve Board member Jane Taylor to help support all of the Preserve’s programs and activities. The event was first held at Preserve Life Member Anne Bienstock’s barn, then moved to the Slingerland Pavilion, and is now held at the Mohonk Mountain House Pavilion.
Photo: Preserve Life Member Anne Bienstock’s barn in New Paltz, NY, site of the first annual Preserve auction by Bob Babb
Ribbon-cutting ceremony is held for the opening of the Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center
The Visitor Center on Route 44/55 in Gardiner, NY, features exhibits, nature trails, a butterfly garden, and an award-winning, green design including a geothermal heating and cooling system.
Photo: Executive Director Glenn Hoagland cutting the ribbon to officially open the Visitor Center by Scott Wynn
Dedication ceremony for the Slingerland Pavilion is held
With its spectacular Catskill Mountain views, this open-air pavilion at Spring Farm is a special venue for Preserve programs and events as well as weddings and other community gatherings.
Photo: Board Member Freddie Slingerland cutting the ribbon to officially open the Slingerland Pavilion by Bob Babb
First Scheuer Land Stewardship Award is presented to Preserve Board Member Joe Bridges
This award, given in memory of Thom Scheuer, honors outstanding volunteer efforts in support of stewardship at the Preserve.
Photo: Board Member and Research Associate Joe Bridges conducting a post-nest survey of a peregrine falcon eyrie. Photo by Richard Goldstone.
Mohonk Preserve and G. Steve Jordan partner on the first Preserve calendar
This limited-edition calendar features stunning photos by renowned nature photographer, G. Steve Jordan with proceeds benefitting the Preserve.
Photo: courtesy of G. Steve Jordan
The Eli Van Leuven Cabin is restored as an interpretive site
This cabin is one of the few remaining homes of the nearly vanished Trapps Mountain Hamlet, a subsistence hamlet listed on both the New York State and National Register of Historic Places.
Photo: Van Leuven Cabin in the Trapps Mountain Hamlet by Bob Fisher
Preserve is awarded “Best Hike in the Hudson Valley” from Hudson Valley Magazine
This regional award spotlights Bonticou Crag as an outstanding hiking destination with stunning views. The Preserve has since won several awards from the publication.
Photo: Hikers on the summit of Bonticou Crag by Michael Neil O’Donnell
Scheuer Land Stewardship Internship is established
Dr. Ed Reppert, Preserve Board Member and Coordinator of Volunteer Trailkeepers, provides the initial funding to establish this internship “to teach young land stewards to consider all parts of nature as a part of the total ecosystem, how all are related to and dependent on one another, and how each relates to humankind.”
Photo: First Scheuer Land Stewardship Intern Ariel Dekovic by Hank Alicandri
Preserve Land Management Plan is adopted
Through land management planning, staff and volunteers work together to achieve balance in accommodating visitors while protecting the resources of the Preserve.
Photo: Land Management Plan cover
Preserve receives a national award from the Coalition for Recreational Trails
This award, one of seven given nationwide, is for the construction and design of the East Trapps Connector Trail.
Photo: Bernard Kirchner (left) and Peter Jansen (right) of Open Space Management, fitting stones together for the construction of the East Trapps Connector Trail. Photo by Ed Reppert.
Director of Education Kathy Ambrosini is selected for the National Biodiversity Education Leadership Institute
Kathy is one of 43 education leaders from around the world selected for this award by the World Wildlife Fund and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Photo: Director of Education Kathy Ambrosini (front row, 6th from left) receiving her award at Disney World. Photo provided by Kathy Ambrosini
Shawangunk Ridge Biodiversity Partnership (SRBP) initiates Green Assets program
As a leading member of SRBP, the Preserve strives to build greater community awareness about the shared natural, recreational, scenic, and cultural resources of the area. The SRBP, founded in 1994, is composed of non-profit and public agencies dedicated to protecting sensitive habitat and other natural resources of the Shawangunk Mountains.
Photo: View of the Shawangunk Ridge from Butterville Road, New Paltz, NY
Director of Research Paul Huth is recognized for his years of service as a Cooperative Weather Observer by the National Weather Service (NOAA)
The Daniel Smiley Research Center provides daily weather data to the National Weather Service, collecting such information as temperature, precipitation, snowfall, snow on the ground, fog, ice pellets, glaze, hail, and damaging winds.
Photo: Director of Research Paul Huth collecting rain samples at the Daniel Smiley Research Center by John Mizel
Preserve elects Ronald G. Knapp as president of Mohonk Preserve’s Board of Directors
Ronald G. Knapp, professor emeritus of SUNY New Paltz, was named president of Mohonk Preserve’s Board of Directors, succeeding Sara S. Senior, who served for 30 years. Ron had been a board member for 18 years and is internationally renowned for his achievements in the study of cultural and historical geography.
Photo: Ron Knapp by John Mizel
Preserve Volunteer Roland Ellis is selected for the Volunteer Educator Award by the New York State Outdoor Education Association
Volunteer Educators assist Staff Educators in leading school field study programs outdoors
in the Spring and Fall. Since the Preserve’s beginnings, tens-of-thousands of school children have participated in hands-on, inquiry-based lessons at the ponds, fields, forests, streams, and ridge-tops of the Mohonk Preserve.
Photo: Volunteer Roland Ellis leading an outdoor education program by David Ramage
Interpretive programs on climbing are held at the Trapps
Preserve rangers establish the “How Did the Rope Get Up There?” public education program to introduce visitors to the rich tradition of climbing in the Gunks.
Photo: Ranger Frank Tkac leading an interpretive climbing program at the Trapps from the Mohonk Preserve archives
The Ginsberg Conservation Fund is established
The William R. Ginsberg Conservation Fund for land acquisition and protection is established in honor of leading environmental attorney and Preserve Counsel Bill Ginsberg who was instrumental in the landmark Court of Appeals ruling granting tax exempt status for the Trust.
Photo: William R. Ginsberg, Esq. by Marlis Momber
Preserve provides accessibility training and planning
The Preserve joins forces with the Resource Center for Accessible Living to present the Hudson Valley Accessible Parks and Nature Centers Workshop, providing accessibility training and planning to 25 regional agencies and organizations.
Photo: Director of Education Kathy Ambrosini leading a workshop presentation by Kim Tischler
Carriage road network restoration plan is created
Preserve Stewardship staff and the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation complete a state-of-the-art plan and guidance manual for the restoration of the carriage road network in the Shawangunks.
Photo: Shawangunk carriage road by John Mizel
Preserve lands sustain significant damage from Hurricane Irene
This storm exacts a heavy toll on the Preserve’s over 7,000 acres. Carriage roads and trails are impacted by flooding, washouts, fallen trees, and debris. Rangers, staff, and volunteers mobilize quickly to support recovery efforts.
Photo: Flooding on Undercliff Carriage Road by John Mizel
New Cedar Drive Bridge constructed over Mohonk Road
This bridge replaces a crossing that was displaced by road widening over 40 years ago and reconnects the Northern Preserve with the rest of the historic carriage road network, providing safe passage for hikers, runners, bikers, equestrians, cross-country skiers, and local wildlife.
Video of the Cedar Drive Bridge Grand Opening
Mohonk Preserve purchases Giant’s Ledges
With this purchase, the Preserve expands into the northernmost Shawangunks.
Photo: Giant’s Ledges by Renée Zernitsky
First Bridge 2 Bridge 5-mile Run to benefit the Preserve is held
The Bridge 2 Bridge 5-mile run is held each spring at Spring Farm and helps the Preserve’s mission to protect the Shawangunk Mountains and inspire people to care for, enjoy, and explore their natural world.
Photo: Runners on course at the 2012 Bridge 2 Bridge 5-mile run by Michael Neil O’Donnell
The Preserve agrees to purchase an iconic 534-acre parcel from the Open Space Conservancy
This parcel, now known as the Mohonk Preserve Foothills, includes the Testimonial Gateway tower, circa 1907, which served as the entrance to Mohonk Mountain House until 1945; Humpo Marsh, an important wildlife viewing and migratory bird area; and the historic Kleinekill Farm.
Photo: Testimonial Gateway by Michael Neil O’Donnell
Executive Director Glenn Hoagland marks 20 years of leadership at the Preserve
For three decades, Glenn has been a leading voice for conservation in the Hudson Valley, working on both sides of the river to protect some of the region’s most precious natural resources.
Photo: Glenn Hoagland from the Mohonk Preserve archives
The Preserve marks its 50th year
Mohonk Preserve kicks off a yearlong 50th anniversary celebration with a day of fun and activities at the grand reopening of the newly renovated Visitor Center campus. Visitors experience new, state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, orientation theater, renovated Kids Corner and Children’s Forest, and expanded trails including the accessible J&S Grafton Sensory Trail.
Photo: Educator and Wildlife Lecturer Bill Robinson presenting a Live Birds of Prey and Reptile Show at the Visitor Center Grand Reopening by Vasudha Donnelly
First Rock The Ridge 50-mile Endurance Challenge to benefit the Preserve is held
Rock The Ridge participants run, walk, or hike a 50-mile course in 24 hours across carriage roads and trails along the Shawangunk Ridge. The 50-mile format of Rock The Ridge is based on the “Kennedy Challenge” issued in 1962 when President Kennedy challenged the U.S. Marines to cover 50 miles in 20 hours. Launched in connection with the Preserve’s 50th anniversary, Rock The Ridge participants raise funds to support the Preserve’s mission of preserving the land and inspiring people to experience nature.
Photo: Runners at the starting line of the Rock The Ridge Endurance Challenge by John Hayes
Mohonk Preserve earns national recognition for excellence in land protection
Mohonk Preserve is awarded accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. The Preserve is one of only 230 land trusts from across the country awarded accreditation since the fall of 2008, and the first to be accredited in Ulster County. To achieve accreditation, Mohonk Preserve underwent a rigorous review to ensure that their operations are efficient and strategic, and that their conservation work is permanent.
Photo: Land Trust Accreditation Commission seal
Launch of Community Naturalist Program
Mohonk Preserve’s Community Naturalist Program invites members of the community to engage in scientific research and long-term ecological monitoring through direct participation in natural history observation, data collection and analysis
Photo: Through the Mohonk Preserve Foothills Phenology project, volunteer observers document the appearance and duration of key stages in the life cycles of select plants, including the first ripe blueberry, pollen releases in red cedar, and fall color in sugar maples.
Preserve elects James L. Hoover as president of Mohonk Preserve’s Board of Directors
James L. Hoover was elected president of the Mohonk Preserve Board of Directors, succeeding Ronald G. Knapp. Hoover retired from Columbia School of Law in 2002 after 24 years of and having served as vice dean for administration. Hoover joined the Preserve board in 2001 and served as vice president from 2011-2014.
Photo: Jim Hoover by Lee Courtney
First New York City Gala
Mohonk Preserve held its first-ever New York City Gala at Three Sixty°–Tribeca in Manhattan. The inaugural Gala, hosted by Honorary Chair Robert De Niro, celebrated the Preserve’s 50th Anniversary and successful capital campaign – Conservation for the Next Century, and honored the Preserve’s leading corporate sponsor, M&T Bank.
Photo: Mohonk Preserve Executive Director with Honorary Chair Robert De Niro at the first-ever New York City Gala.
Launch of Junior Ranger Program
Mohonk Preserve launched our Junior Ranger program, providing an opportunity for teens ages 13-16 to learn the skills and gain the knowledge needed to pursue a career as a ranger or naturalist. Participants develop skills in rock climbing and backcountry navigation, as well as in teambuilding and leadership. The program culminates in the Adirondacks, where the rangers-to-be apply their newly acquired skills.
Photo: Anna Harrod, Mohonk Preserve Education Coordinator for Public & Youth Programs, teaches the Junior Rangers wayfinding skills. Photo by Gerald Liddelow
Mohonk Preserve Prevails in Protecting Bonticou Crag
Mohonk Preserve prevailed in litigation to protect Bonticou Crag lands from an attempt by a private landholders to claim ownership of 45 acres when the State of New York Supreme Court Appellate Division unanimously upheld a decision affirming the Preserve’s ownership.
Photo: View from Bonticou Crag by Michael Neil O’Donnell
Outdoor Field Studies with the San Miguel Academy of Newburgh
Through funding from The North Face Explore Fund, and the Bourne and Norcross Wildlife Foundations, and with the generous support of Preserve donors, we launched a year-long program of outdoor field studies with urban students from the San Miguel Academy of Newburgh. They learned critical STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) skills through orienteering and map reading, fire ecology, winter survival and more.
Photo: Students from the San Miguel Academy of Newburgh conduct outdoor field studies at Mohonk Preserve by Jay Diggs
Acquired 857-acre Foothills property from Open Space Institute Land Trust
With our committed Board of Directors and support from land conservation partners and generous donors, Mohonk Preserve bought the entire Mohonk Preserve Foothills tract, an 857-acre property strategically located between the Village of New Paltz and the protected areas of the Shawangunk Mountains. The Foothills landscape was identified by the community as the “number one cherished landscape” according to the Town of New Paltz Open Space Plan and includes the local historic landmark Testimonial Gateway gatehouse structure (c.1908); the Humpo Marsh, a critical wildlife and migratory bird area; and the historic Brook, Pine, and Kleinekill Farms, which continue the property’s heritage agricultural operations.
Photo: Lenape Lane in the Mohonk Preserve Foothills near the historic Brook, Pine, and Kleinekill Farms by Gerald Liddelow
Preserve Launches School Partnership with Nora Cronin Presentation Academy of Newburgh
This program is designed to help underserved girls experience outdoor education through guided Field Studies and STEM programs.
Photo: Students from Nora Cronin Presentation Academy of Newburgh on a field study trip by Karen Maloy Brady
Daniel Smiley Research Center Marks 120 Years of Continuous Weather Data
On the first day of 2016, the Mohonk Lake Cooperative Weather Station began its 120th year of continuous operation. In terms of days, that’s more than 43,800 days of volunteer observers personally recording the weather for the National Weather Service as a public service.
Photo: Director of Research Emeritus Paul Huth leads a presentation on the Mohonk Lake Cooperative Weather Station by John Mizel
Preserve Purchases the 49-acre Ramey Parcel
Located in the upper part of the Coxing Kill watershed, this is an area of high conservation significance that includes an important 45-acre Hemlock-northern hardwood forest and 4.4-acre Chestnut Oak forest, along with a spring, seeps, the Coxing Kill stream and a tributary.
Photo: Ramey Parcel from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Preserve Launches Youth Nature Ambassador Program
The Youth Nature Ambassador program is a volunteer opportunity for teens, ages 14 and up, to gain work skills and community service credit, building skills and knowledge in education and environmental science as well as customer service and public speaking.
Photo: Youth Nature Ambassadors on a hike at Bonticou Crag by Stephen D. Stewart-Hill
High Falls Mesonet Station Installed at Spring Farm
Part of the New York State Early Warning Weather Detection System, New York State Mesonet is a network of 125 automated weather stations across the state measuring temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, pressure, radiation, and soil information as they happen on the ridge.
Photo: Director of Research Emeritus Paul Huth and the Mesonet weather station by Mohonk Preserve staff
Protected 12-acre Vlachos Parcel
Donated by legacy Gunks climber Peter Vlachos, this parcel features small cliff exposures and hemlock, hardwood and pine forests.
Photo: Vlachos Parcel by Emily Hague
Preserve Launches StreamWatch Program
StreamWatch is a research and community science-driven planning and data collection process which will evaluate water quality, identify vulnerable species, assess invasive threats, determine the need for riparian buffers or changes to existing agricultural practices, and inform future Preserve projects as part of an overall conservation plan for these watersheds.
Photo: Streamwatch volunteers conduct a field study survey by Tom Weiner
Historic Research Reports Get New Life
Selected DSRC historic Research Reports were made available publically to researchers, scientists, community naturalists, and others interested in natural history via social media along with Species Spotlights and historic Ridgelines articles.
Photo: 1969 Herbarium Specimen of Early Mountain Azalea from the Mohonk Preserve Daniel Smiley Research Center archives
Grand Opening of the New Trapps Bridge
The newly completed Trapps Bridge replaces a former 1930 repurposed railroad bridge with an American-made steel pedestrian bridge with wooden decking, providing a critical link from Mohonk Preserve to Minnewaska State Park Preserve and the rest of the Shawangunk Ridge.
Photo: Grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony for the Trapps Bridge by John Mizel
Elected Russ Clune as Mohonk Preserve Board Chair
A renowned rock climber, Russ began climbing in the Gunks in 1977 and established over 100 climbing routes. He joined the Preserve Board in 1997.
Photo: Russ Clune Rock Climbing at Mohonk Preserve from the Mohonk Preserve archives
Began construction on the Testimonial Gateway Trailhead
The first new trailhead in 25 years will feature safe, managed parking, EV charging stations, accessible restrooms, a green design visitor contact station and wayfinding signage.
Photo: Testimonial Gateway Tower by Kate Schoonmaker
Partnered with NYS OPRHP to manage Marakill Woods
The 58-acre parcel contains a chestnut oak forest, wetland sedge meadow, cattail marsh, and the headwaters of the Mara Kill Stream.
Photo: Land Protection staff monitoring boundary markers by Julia Solomon
Received IMLS Grant for Digitization Project
The grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services will fund digitization of over 14,000 note cards and 3,700 specimens from the DSRC collection.
Photo: Butterfly from the Digitization Project by Natalie Feldsine
Preserve launches Conservation Programs
In 2020, the Preserve’s Conservation Science and Land Protection programs joined to become the Conservation Programs department, under the leadership of Director of Conservation Programs Julia Solomon. This integration enhances both our climate and natural history research, including community science programs, and our land protection and management work, including ongoing work with landowners to protect high priority properties. Working together, the conservation professionals in these programs take a comprehensive approach to deepening our connections and commitments to nature and our communities.
Photo: Conservation Programs staff on the trail by Leo Vatkin
Mohonk Preserve establishes the Visitor Experience program
The Visitor Experience team is committed to maintaining the critical balance between recreation and conservation, while promoting low-impact, Leave No Trace principles for all visitors.
Photo: Patrol Ranger Alan Kline greeting visitors at a trailhead booth by Andrew Bajardi
Kevin Case started work as President & CEO of Mohonk Preserve
Kevin Case joins the Preserve as President and CEO with an extensive background in land conservation. For the past 15 years, Kevin worked closely with regional land trusts in the Northeast with the Land Trust Alliance (LTA). During his tenure with LTA, Kevin provided strategic guidance and support for nearly 750 land trusts across a 32-state region, focusing on the role of land conservation in building healthy and vibrant communities.
Photo: President & CEO Kevin Case at the Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center by Bryan Coppede
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