OSI’s Blue Hill Deal: 3,100 Acres of Forest and Stream Protected

Adjacent to the Willowemoc Wild Forest, in the Sullivan Catskills, a 3100-acre parcel once eyed for development is now safeguarded for future generations. In this episode, we chronicle the Open Space Institute’s landmark deal, and potentially the largest acquisition for the Catskills in nearly 25 years.

From the quiet negotiations with landowners to the sweeping implications for climate resilience and watershed health, this episode dives deep into what makes Blue Hill so important to the region.

Key highlights include:

• Behind-the-scenes details on how OSI’s team identified and secured the property

• The role of Blue Hill in protecting coldwater streams critical to downstream communities

• A look back at Blue Hill’s brushes with development, including a ski resort derailed by liquor restrictions

• What the public can expect in terms of access, trails, and community engagement

• Reflections on regional conservation wins and what they signal for the future

Hear from Tom Gravel, OSI's Northeast Project Manager, and Charlie Burgess, OSI’s Northern NY Stewardship Manager about OSI's strategic land acquisitions—and how they are advancing New York’s commitment to conserve 30% of its lands and waters by 2030 under the state’s 30x30 initiative.