06/17/2026
The Open Space Institute (OSI) stepping in is a classic, vital move for Adirondack conservation. Organizations like OSI act as the essential "middleman"—they have the capital and agility to purchase threatened or transitioning properties quickly before private developers can scoop them up. Because state acquisitions involve extensive bureaucracy, environmental assessments, and legislative approvals, the 3-year timeline is standard for a transfer of this scale. Here is what this means for the future of the Sabattis Scout Reservation property: Environmental Rehabilitation: OSI will work to ensure the camp's infrastructure is safely decommissioned or adapted to protect local wildlife habitats and the pristine waters of Lows Lake.Adirondack Forest Preserve Integration: Once sold to New York State, the roughly 1,500 acres will officially become part of the public Forest Preserve. Given its location, it will likely be integrated into the surrounding Five Ponds Wilderness or continuous wild forest areas. Forever Wild & Publicly Accessible: It ensures the land will never be subdivided for private luxury estates or commercial resorts. Instead, it will be protected under the NYS Constitution as "forever wild"—forever open to hikers, paddlers, campers, and future generations of outdoor enthusiasts (including scouts returning on public treks!). It's tough to see a historic Scout camp close its doors after so many decades of memories, but knowing the wilderness itself is preserved and will eventually belong to all New Yorkers is a wonderful silver lining.
