Land Trust Releases Conservation Plan for Southern Half of Skaneateles Lake Watershed
10/08/2009
The Land Trust’s plan calls for the permanent protection of significant open space through the use of conservation easements; strengthened land use planning; the creation of a scenic byway around Skaneateles Lake; and the expansion of recreational opportunities through the extension of existing recreational trails and the creation of waterfront access.Findings in the Land Trust’s report are based on a systematic assessment of the study area. Field surveys and an analysis of existing data was supplemented by interviews with municipal leaders, planners, landowners, and other stakeholders. The project was funded by the Allyn Foundation, the Central New York Regional Planning & Development Board, and the New York State Conservation Partnership Program – a joint effort of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Land Trust Alliance.
The Land Trust’s study found widespread recognition of the value of natural resources within the southern half of the Skaneateles Lake Watershed along with concern over increasing development pressure. Significant features include some of the most pristine shoreline remaining in the Finger Lakes; an extensive wetland featuring rare wildflowers; an Audubon-designated Important Bird Area; rugged gorges and waterfalls; miles of recreational trails; and 21 farms that provide a scenic backdrop to Skaneateles Lake.
To ensure the future of these resources, the Land Trust recommends undertaking four initiatives:
A systematic effort to protect significant open space lands through the acquisition of conservation easements – both through purchase and donation. Undeveloped lakeshore, large parcels of farmland, and steeply sloping woodlands overlooking the lake are identified as priorities for protection.
Strengthened land use planning efforts, with a shift toward policies that promote clustered development as well as a conservation analysis of all development proposals.
The creation of a Scenic Byway around Skaneateles Lake, utilizing State Routes 41 and 41A. Scenic overlooks with interpretive kiosks should be established and enhanced to provide visitors with access to the scenic vistas for which the area is famous.
The enhancement of recreational opportunities through an expanded trail network and the creation of public access to the lakeshore. The creation of a ridge to ridge trail between State Routes 41 and 41A and the extension of the existing “jug path” along Bear Swamp Creek will provide residents and visitors alike with the opportunity to experience the full range of natural habitats found in the area. In addition , public access to the southern half of Skaneateles Lake is lacking, and should be provided.
“We need to act now to ensure the future of the Lake and the scenic landscapes for which the region is well known,” says Land Trust executive director Andrew Zepp. “We have a window of opportunity within which to act before development pressures become too great.”
The Finger Lakes Land Trust was established in 1989 to work cooperatively with landowners and local communities to conserve those lands that define the character of the Finger Lakes Region. To date, the organization has permanently protected 11,000 acres of the region’s most significant open spaces through direct acquisition of land as well as the use of conservation easements on private land.
Within the Skaneateles Lake Watershed, the Land Trust owns and manages two woodland nature preserves and holds a conservation easement on lands bordering Bear Swamp Creek. The organization also partnered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to secure the primary public access to Carpenter’s Falls – the highest waterfall within the watershed.
The full text of the plan can be found here or a hard copy may be obtained by calling the Land Trust's office at 607-275-9487
