Rockland County Executive Ed Day and the Open Space Institute celebrated the largest Open Space Acquisition Program purchase in history of 236 acres known as the Eagle Valley Assemblage.
“This is a historic win for Rockland County,” said County Executive Ed Day. “The Eagle Valley property is a rare, undeveloped parcel of this size and will protect water resources, preserve wildlife habitats, and provide new opportunities for recreation.”
The press conference was held at the Valley Rock Inn, a wellness restaurant & event venue that neighbors the Eagle Valley Assemblage. With this acquisition the county hopes to establish a connection and corridor of the undeveloped land between Sterling Forest and Harriman State Parks while also safeguarding critical water resources.
“This isn’t just about protecting land—it’s about safeguarding the integrity of local water sources and creating connections that provide lasting benefits for people and wildlife,” said Erik Kulleseid, President and CEO, OSI. “OSI is thrilled to lend our land conservation expertise towards a project that will enable visitors to effortlessly explore the natural beauty of the area while preserving the clean water for generations to come.”
The acquisition was made possible with the support of a $2.74 million Highlands Conservation Act grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The grant, secured with critical assistance from New York State Parks, will be returned to the County’s Open Space Acquisition Fund, ensuring more land can be preserved for future generations.
“The Hudson Valley is one of the most beautiful and historic regions in America, and projects like the Eagle Valley Assemblage are essential to preserving that legacy,” said Congressman Michael Lawler. “As Co-Chair of the Appalachian Trail Caucus, I was proud to help introduce the bipartisan Appalachian Trail Centennial Act to strengthen partnerships that protect and expand our national trails—including the nearly fifty miles of the Trail that run through New York’s 17th District. Along with my support for the Highlands Conservation Act and the Land and Water Conservation Fund, this work reflects my belief that we have a responsibility to safeguard our land, waterways, and environment for future generations. Together, we can ensure the Hudson Valley remains one of the very best places to live, work, and raise a family.”
The purchase continues the legacy of Rockland’s Open Space Acquisition Program, launched in 1999 by former County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef to preserve scenic landscapes, environmentally sensitive lands, farms, and Hudson River waterfront areas. The program was suspended in 2010 during the national recession but was revived with the help of the Rockland County Legislature in 2019 under Day’s administration. Since its revival, with Eagle Valley, we’ve preserved over 320 acres. (87 acres saved prior outside of Eagle Valley)
Rockland County worked in partnership with the Open Space Institute (OSI), which initially acquired two of the Eagle Valley properties to ensure their protection; the third the County acquired directly from the property owner. The County is exploring opportunities for the site, including the creation of a new county park and expanded trail connections.
“The opportunity to protect land at this scale in Rockland County is extraordinarily rare,” added Day. “This acquisition represents the power of collaboration — between government agencies, environmental organizations, and the residents who first nominate properties for review. Together, we are leaving a legacy of preservation that will benefit Rocklanders for generations to come.”
Watch the full event here.
