ITHACA, N.Y. — The Finger Lakes Land Trust is celebrating its 30th Anniversary throughout 2019. Since its beginnings as an all-volunteer organization in 1989, the Land Trust has grown into an accredited conservation organization, protecting more than 23,000 acres.
With Executive Director Andy Zepp at the helm, the Land Trust now owns and manages 34 public nature preserves that range in size from a small, Canandaigua lakeshore park to an 800-acre forest overlooking the Chemung River valley. These nature preserves and conservation areas feature an incredible diversity of waterfalls, wildlife habitats, rare plants, and opportunities for outdoor recreation and education.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the Land Trust is hosting a series of hikes led by knowledgeable staff, covering a total of 30 miles. Through the hikes series, you can sample ten diverse and scenic preserves that highlight the best of what the Land Trust has accomplished. The hikes are free and open to the public; join us for one event, attend them all, or complete the series on your own. Hikers who complete all 30 miles will receive a special gift from the Land Trust.
The next hike is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 21 at 9 a.m. at the Lindsay-Parsons Biodiversity Preserve in West Danby. Event details and directions can be found at fllt.org/events.
Here is the list of upcoming hikes:
- September 21: Lindsay-Parsons Biodiversity Preserve (W. Danby, Tompkins County)
- October 5: Wesley Hill Nature Preserve (Richmond, Ontario County)
- October 12: Sweedler & Thayer Preserves (Ithaca, Tompkins County)
Additional information about the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s 30th anniversary may be found at www.fllt.org/30years.
Featured image courtesy of Bill Hecht.