Preservation Group Buys Forest Tract In Adirondack Foothills

EDINBURGH, N.Y. (AP) — A preservation group has purchased more than 4,000 acres of forest in the southern Adirondack foothills to protect a city watershed and provide recreational opportunities.

The Open Space Institute says the land acquisition in the Saratoga County towns of Edinburg and Providence will permanently protect the watershed for the city of Amsterdam.

The group bought the 4,388-acre tract known as the "Hans Creek" property for $2.55 million. It's a broad, forested plateau overlooking the southern shore of Great Sacandaga Lake.

The property has a forest road network that will be the foundation of an extensive trail system for hiking and snowmobiling.

The Open Space Institute says it plans to transfer the property to a private buyer under a conservation easement that allows timber harvest and public recreation and prohibits development.