Annual Report

In a period of great transition, Scenic Hudson continues to be a bright light and powerful force for making good things happen across the region. The energy we bring to the whole spectrum of our work — creating new parks, protecting the valley’s beautiful places, conserving biodiversity, and fighting for environmental health — remains unmatched.

Day in and day out, our outstanding staff is tackling the hard work and ensuring a better future for all of us who call the Hudson Valley home. Working alongside you, we’re creating more opportunities to love, protect, and connect with the people and places we cherish. We’re pleased to offer this update to celebrate the positive impact we’ve had over the past year while also taking a look at what lies ahead.

Scenic Hudson’s track record stretches over 60 years: We’ve protected 53,000 acres of vital land, conserved 146 family farms, and created or enhanced 65 places to connect with nature. We’re working to enhance soil health, increase resiliency against extreme weather and dangerous floods, and improve air and water quality for all in the region.

Adding to our record of significant accomplishments, this year Scenic Hudson:

• Conserved more than 1,500 acres, including an iconic mountain, ecologically important wetlands and forests, and family farms that supply fresh, healthy produce to the region and New York City.
• Defeated the Danskammer fracked-gas power plant, a key battle in the fight against climate change in New York State and a national precedent that is helping to turn the tide from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
• Forged and gained passage of legislation that will help communities find win-win solutions in siting renewable energy projects.
• Brought national attention to our fight to secure a comprehensive cleanup of toxic Hudson River pollution.
• Supported urban farming and enhanced life in the River Cities of Kingston, Newburgh, and Poughkeepsie with family-friendly events and ways for people to connect with nature in their own neighborhoods.
• Helped farmers adapt to extreme weather, floods and drought by providing technical assistance and education on regenerative agriculture.
• Developed new trails and promoted new places to access the river up and down the valley.

Partners are key to our success. From volunteers to land owners, fellow land trusts to elected officials, we marvel at the commitment and generosity of so many — including you — who help make these accomplishments possible, month after month, year after year.

With your enduring support, Scenic Hudson will continue to advance our mission to sustain and enhance the valley’s inspirational beauty and health for generations to come.