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Scenic Hudson Honors Those Improving State Parks
NYS Parks Commissioner Carol Ash and nonprofit Parks & Trails NY Saluted
Scenic Hudson honored New York State Parks Commissioner Carol Ash and the nonprofit Parks & Trails New York for spearheading major investments in popular state parks - including many in the Hudson Valley.
Their work led the state to commit to making its largestever investment in park improvements - $100 million in the 2008/09 state budget - for enhancing parks that are enjoyed by 55 million visitors statewide annually and that help boost the valley's regional economy. Many infrastructure upgrades at state parks will be done in time for celebrating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage of exploration and they will be appreciated for generations as a legacy of the Quadricentennial.
Scenic Hudson saluted the honorees at a gala held at Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Pocantico Hills, Westchester County.
"Both our honorees have provided a great and lasting service to the people of the Hudson Valley and our entire state. Parks that provide safe and beautiful places are part of the foundation for livable communities," said Ned Sullivan, president of Scenic Hudson. "It's only fitting to recognize visionaries who are helping New York again claim the mantle of having the best state parks in the country."
Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) since 2007, Ms. Ash has articulated and begun to implement a bold vision for improving the state's system of parks and historic sites. Her leadership in securing the largest investment ever by the state in its parks is part of a multi-year plan to restore amenities that make state parks a destination for millions of residents and tourists. Speaking of the far-reaching benefits of the state's parks, Commissioner Ash said, "Parks are valuable and irreplaceable public assets that help keep communities healthy and that contribute economically by attracting tourists, employing people, and helping make the region a more attractive place to do business. While the state is investing in our parks, we're also increasing efforts to raise private support from individuals, foundations, friends groups and interested corporations. Scenic Hudson has been a vital partner in creating such special places, including Sterling Forest, Fahnestock, Franny Reese Preserve and more."
Parks & Trails New York is grass-roots parks success story; report helped prompt state investment
Founded in 1985, Parks & Trails New York is the only nonprofit working statewide to protect and promote the natural beauty and recreational resources in public parkland. The group also is developing multiuse trails that boost regional tourism and economies, while it also helps communities and grass-roots groups create new places for residents to enjoy the benefits of nature and exercise.
Since its inception Parks & Trails New York has called attention to the benefits and challenges of maintaining New York's spectacular parks through a series of studies
"New York State can't afford to squander the priceless legacy that its state park system represents. With our growing understanding of the importance of environmental protection and of healthy lifestyles - and with the state leveraging quality of life as one of its key assets in an effort to grow our economy - the park system matters today more than ever," said Robin Dropkin, executive director of Parks & Trails New York.
Special guest applauded during event
A private citizen and philanthropist also was honored during the event. Dr. Lucy Waletzky, chair of the State Council of Parks, is spearheading private fundraising efforts for state parks. In addition to her generous support of the statewide capital initiative for state parks, Dr. Waletzky is supporting trail work with Scenic Hudson at both Mills-Norrie State Park in the Town of Staatsburg, Dutchess County, and at the Franny Reese Preserve State Park in the Town of Lloyd, Ulster County. The dramatic 250-acre property along the Hudson was protected by Scenic Hudson in 2003 and in partnership with the state was named a state park in honor of the Scenic Hudson co-founder, who also was the group's guiding spirit for 40 years.
Galas honor partners crucial to land-preservation campaign
The gala is one of three events Scenic Hudson is hosting in May and June to celebrate the partnerships that will enable the organization to complete its campaign to Save the Land that Matters Most.
Scenic Hudson works to protect and restore the Hudson River and its majestic landscape as an irreplaceable national treasure and a vital resource for residents and visitors. www.scenichudson.org
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