The easement area
slopes directly south to the adjacent New York City DEP watershed land and into
the Cross River Reservoir. A linear wetland and old ditched stream system
drains the field and forest into the reservoir to the south. The open field
is infrequently mowed and will be maintained as such. Forested areas on
the east and west side of the easement area are dominated by sugar maple, red
maple, ash, and hickory. Open, shrubby areas on the west side are
dominated by multiflora rose and barberry. These forested and shrubby
areas are very important to foraging birds. The tall trees in the
forested areas are very important to many of the local raptors using the
reservoir. The easement area connects to over 360 acres of land protected
by the NYC DEP for the Croton Reservoir and will add to that valuable wildlife
corridor and watershed protection.
The easement had many significant conservation values. The property has significant natural habitat value. It protects habitat for numerous species of plants and animals native to the area by preserving open fields, wetlands and woodlands near the reservoir. The property is contiguous to already protected land and will help maintain a valuable wildlife corridor. The easement is located only 650 ft from the Eastern Westchester Biotic Corridor and is separated by protected wetlands and forestland so it is safe to assume that this easily connects to and helps extend the Biotic Corridor in Pound Ridge. The property protects wetlands and uplands located in close proximity to the Cross River Reservoir and drains directly south into it thus protecting the Croton River Reservoir System and the drinking water supply for New York City and parts of Westchester. The property has significant public benefit and protects open space pursuant to governmental policy. The 2006 New York State Open Space Plan recommends protection of properties such as this within the New York City Watershed Lands [priority area]. The property also has some value in maintaining open space for scenic enjoyment. The easement can be seen by people fishing on the reservoir.