The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) purchased Potters Beach and the adjacent Potters Forest in 1995, in part with a grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. At 230 acres, Potters Forest is the largest contiguous track of forest on the island. The mature hardwoods are important to neo-tropical migratory songbirds, including the Cerulean Warbler, which
is a NY State threatened species. The acquisition of the 16 acre Potters Beach, obtained partially from a direct descendant of the beach’s original owner, was an important conservation milestone for TILT: The conservation of Potters Beach successfully prevented future private developments on this pristine stretch of shoreline, and ensured that it remains a beautiful beach for all to enjoy. Countless generations have enjoyed Potters Beach: The shallow, warm water has helped teach kids to swim and the beach area has hosted picnics and shore dinners while the sun sets over the River. Because of fond memories like these, volunteers from Grindstone Island and the larger community help to look after this popular beach. Every September, TILT and the Rivergate Wheelers ATV Club invite volunteers to help with cleaning up Potters Beach after the busy summer season. Participants spend a couple hours cleaning up any trash and debris along the beach and in the adjacent woods, and tackling any storm damage that may have occurred. The Rivergate Wheelers then grill up hot dogs and burgers for the hungry volunteers. It’s the perfect way to show your support for conserving natural beauty along the River! The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) conserves over 8,200 acres in the 1000 Islands, much of which is open space available for public use. Open space is essential to water flow and air quality, to the scenic character of an area, and to the quality of life for the wildlife, and people that inhabit the Thousand Islands region.
