Dorene Warner

In 2021, the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited, successfully
acquired 77 acres of restored grassland in the Town of West Turin, near Constableville. This addition to our portfolio of Public Conservation Areas (PCA) stands out for its unique natural features.

Keller Mohawk Hill PCA is home to re-established grasslands, Olmstead Brook, and wetland areas that provide critical habitat for a variety of wildlife, including migratory waterfowl and songbirds.

The property’s wetlands serve as essential breeding grounds for several species and  contribute to the overall health of the local ecosystem. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find Keller Mohawk Hill especially rewarding.

Recognizing the potential for public engagement and education, the Land Trust is currently seeking funding to construct a viewing platform that will allow visitors to observe the area’s wildlife without disturbing their natural habitat.

In 2023, the Land Trust proudly named this conservation area after Bob and Carol Keller, in honor of their unwavering dedication and support. Longtime residents of Tug Hill will know the Kellers for their significant contributions to the region’s conservation efforts.

Bob Keller has been a steadfast member of the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust’s Board of Directors, serving as both President and Treasurer in recent years.

Beyond their leadership roles, the Kellers continue to be actively involved in the stewardship of Keller Mohawk Hill. Bob will be leading a volunteer group that plays a crucial role in maintaining the PCA, ensuring that trails are accessible and the natural beauty of the area is preserved and we’re looking for interested volunteers.

Ducks Unlimited also assists by mowing the trails several times each summer. After eight years, the Land Trust will assume full responsibility for all mowing and maintenance activities at Keller Mohawk Hill.

Collaborative Preservation

Keller Mohawk Hill is not just a conservation area; it is a testament to the power of community and collaboration in preserving Tug Hill’s natural heritage for future generations.

“We are pleased to be able to help support Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust’s work to protect the working lands, wild places, and way of life on the Tug Hill. It is not only our home, but our favorite place to be.” – Carol Keller

On Nov. 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act. State agencies, local governments, and partners will be able to access funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve climate resiliency, create green jobs, and conserve farmland and natural areas (including working forests).

Bond Act funding will support new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change. This funding will augment the Environmental Protection Fund (part of the state’s budget allocation) to help local families and communities accelerate conservation initiatives.

The new Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts Program, administered by the Land Trust Alliance’s New York program, is an example of a new program funded by the EPF, that could be enhanced through Bond Act Funding. It offers competitive matching grants to qualified New York land trusts to fund the acquisition of conservation easements on forest land that will increase the pace of forested land conservation to combat climate change.

In the heart of our local Tug Hill region lies a hidden gem – what is often referred to as the Core Forest. A region of wide scale importance for its wildlife habitat and long-term forest integrity, the Core Forest is seen as one of New York State’s vibrant working landscapes.

John Constable, a steadfast steward of the land, has been the guardian of his own corner of this forested haven for decades. His love for the towering trees, abundant wildlife, and clean, clear streams also mirrors the importance of preserving these forests, with their older trees, in combating climate change.

As climate goals become increasingly urgent, partnerships with individuals like John play a pivotal role.

John conserved his property with a voluntary conservation easement agreement years ago — long before the new forest conservation easement program. The results continue to be an inspiration as John emphasizes the value of these agreements in safeguarding the core forest and the resources it holds.

“I hope others will consider protecting their lands with the help of partnerships with the land trust and grants with the land trust, or donating a conservation easement and receiving the income tax benefits,” explains John, when asked about his land protection leadership, “I continue to own and manage my land and can conduct forestry activities that respect the conservation goals that
I established with the land trust.”

According to the 2020 New York State Forest Action Plan, “Privately owned forestlands cover 13.52 million acres and represent 74% of New York’s forests. 10.2 million acres are considered family-owned or non-corporate forests. Nearly 700,000 private forest landowners provide the public with the benefits of clean air and water, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and a forest-based economy.”

Property tax credit

Given the importance of land conservation as part of the overall economic vitality of NYS and areas like Tug Hill, New York State also provides a property tax credit for lands conserved with conservation easements.

The Conservation Easement Tax Credit (CETC) offers New York State taxpayers an annual income tax credit of 25% on their school district, county, and town property taxes up to $5,000. If a landowner’s tax credit exceeds the amount he or she owes in state income taxes, the landowner receives a payment for the difference.

Is the Forest Conservation Easement Program right for you?

If you are interested in learning more about the new Forest Conservation Easement Program for Land Trusts please refer to the Land Trust Alliance’s New York State page on its website. You can also talk to land trust staff about the income tax benefits of donating a conservation easement. Over 115 families have conserved their land with our land trust, including forest lands, farms, wetlands, and stream corridors.