The Battenkill Conservancy ("BkC") began as a grassroots organization in 1990 to focus on the preservation and enhancement of river and the watershed. Its reach includes over 500 local, regional, national and international members, supporters and partners. BkC was instrumental in creating the 525 acre Battenkill Forest, the 530 acre Eldridge Swamp Preserve, the popular State Line Route 313 Rest Ar
ea & Visitor Center. Three additional preserves held by BkC include the 17 acre Livingston Brook Heron Rookery in Greenwich, NY, the 11 acre Schmidt Meadow Preserve in Jackson, NY and the 3 acre Rexleigh Marble Mill in Salem, NY. Our goals include:
- Land Conservation to protect aquifers and water supplies.
- Habitat protection.
- Outdoor education to promote appreciation of the environment.
- Access to the river for all. BkC identified two focus areas:
1. Continued protection for land along the river corridor and its tributaries, including restoration of degraded aquatic and riparian habitats.
2. Increase ecological awareness among the user groups so that we proactively safeguard the river against uninformed overuse. By working with the various groups, schools, colleges, local governments and the general public, BkC hopes to build environmental literacy and instill an appreciation for the watershed that includes respect for the ecosystem, shared responsibility for its well-being, and the experience of a special sense of place.
