Programs: Land conservation: hhlt advances the conservation and preservation of the natural resources, open spaces, and scenic beauty of the hudson highlands for the benefit of the public. In providing this service, hhlt makes available information and professional guidance to landowners, municipal officials, and other conservation organizations and professionals. At september 30, 2017, hhlt held 89 conservation easements protecting 2,470 acres of property and an additional 358 acres held in fee in the towns of philipstown, highlands, putnam valley and cornwall, ny. All of hhlt's land conservation services are provided for the benefit of the resident public and several million visitors to this federally recognized region.
outreach: through the organization's outreach events and programs, hhlt seeks to create public awareness on a number of issues, including conservation and sustainability, and celebrates the natural splendor of the hudson highlands with community members of all ages. Our outreach programming aims to instill a sense of the importance of stewardship in residents and visitors to the hudson highlands, from toddlers to adults, through a diverse array of activities and events. Major outreach programs include: river of words, a children's environmental education program that fosters discovery and connection to the outdoors and promotes literacy and environmental stewardship through field visits and the creation of nature-inspired poetry and art ; a free annual community sustainability forum attended by over 100 residents and visitors; a free, three season regional hike program, "take-a-hike! " designed to introduce residents and visitors to the spectacular landscapes of the hudson highlands; and, a monthly electronic newsletter to inform members about issues and activities related to the environment, conservation and sustainability. Other activities include a free community winter festival in partnership with a local municipality, and a teacher training seminar to help educators better use nature as a learning laboratory.
public policy: in the national, state, and regional arenas, hhlt champions the preservation of community character, open space, and natural resources through public advocacy. We support local municipalities and involved residents working to strike the right balance between protection and growth, through assistance in the completion of new or revised comprehensive plans and enhancements of zoning and land use regulations. Hhlt continued to enhance our presence in the towns and villages in our mission area on the hudson river's east bank through dedicated assistance to community leaders working to resolve a number of land preservation and conservation challenges.
