Cowee State Forest announced in Rensselaer County

3,700 acres of forestland on the Rensselaer plateau in Poestenkill and Sand Lake are now recognized as the Cowee State Forest.

RENSSELAER, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- 3,700 acres of forestland on the Rensselaer plateau in Poestenkill and Sand Lake are now recognized as the Cowee State Forest. 11 parcels were purchased by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) from land conservation partners at the Conservation Fund and Rensselaer Plateau Alliance for $3.5M. Cowee Forest Products formerly owned the parcels.

“Conserving public lands is critical to protecting drinking water, enhancing biodiversity, increasing accessibility, and creating opportunities for New Yorkers to get outside, all while supporting the sustainability of the local wood products economy,” Governor Hochul said. “Working with land trusts and other valued partners, New York State is continuing to expand our footprint on the beautiful Rensselaer Plateau, preserving and improving public lands for future use and enjoyment.”

“Protecting New York’s forests helps combat climate change, boost local economies, and improve the quality of life and health of our communities," said New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. "I applaud Governor Hochul’s success in the recent budget and sustained record support for the Environmental Protection Fund and for leading the State’s efforts to enhance public access to the outdoors by protecting these 3,700 acres on the scenic and ecologically important Rensselaer Plateau.”