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A Million Visits to OSI’s Magnificent River-to-Ridge Trail

Underscoring how protected land can strengthen a community and enhance the lives of its residents, the Open Space Institute (OSI) celebrated an exciting milestone at its River-to-Ridge Trail in New Paltz, NY: one million visits since the trail’s opening in 2018! “In just a few years, the trail has become a sanctuary for so many of us,” said Tim Rogers, Mayor of the Village of New Paltz. “This magnificent trail is a gift to residents and visitors.” Built and managed by OSI, the trail’s easy access, gently rolling hills and farmlands, sweeping Shawangunk Ridge views, and year-round recreational opportunities have made it a beloved community cornerstone and a must-visit spot for new and repeat visitors.

TEDx Talk: OSI’s Houser on Protecting Appalachian Landscapes

“We can support nature to support us. It’s not time to give up. It’s time to lean into it.” Joel Houser, OSI’s Director of Capital Grants, recently gave a stirring talk on the immense importance of preserving land in the Appalachian region, an area critical for forest carbon storage and wildlife habitat, at the TEDxChattanooga “Stewards of Nature” event. Click below to watch his 17-minute presentation.  

Celebrating High-Impact Conservation in South Carolina

In a resounding show of support for land protection, OSI joined S.C. Governor Henry McMaster and other local and state partners to celebrate the conservation of Snow’s Island. Together with Florence County, OSI saved 7,600 acres at the confluence of the Lynches and Great Pee Dee Rivers in a far-reaching project that will mitigate flooding, safeguard habitat, and preserve Revolutionary War history. 

Protecting Pennsylvania’s Carbon-Rich Forests 

Forest conservation is an indispensable tool in reducing greenhouse gas levels. Now, 2,300 forested acres in Pennsylvania have been saved thanks to support from OSI’s Appalachian Landscapes Protection Fund. With their protection, two properties—1,700 acres of the High Allegheny Plateau and nearly 670 acres in central Pennsylvania—will continue to absorb and store vast amounts of carbon while also supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Expanding Climate Resilience in the Southeast

The Resilient Communities Initiative, a partnership between OSI and the Tennessee-based Thrive Regional Partnership, will soon expand throughout Southern Appalachia thanks to a new $2.8 million grant. With support and guidance from OSI, Thrive, and local partners, participating communities are empowered to develop strategies—including land protection—that address the destructive impacts of extreme weather.

Conservation for Clean Water

Strategic land conservation plays a critical role in keeping streams and rivers clean by limiting pollutants from entering watersheds. Thanks to support from OSI’s Delaware River Watershed Protection Fund, 55 acres in Chester County, Pennsylvania, have been permanently protected from development, safeguarding clean drinking water while also providing long-term climate benefits.