Partners
Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area
Acclaimed as “the landscape that defined America” by the National Park Service, the
Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area was established by Congress in 1996 to recognize, preserve and interpret the nationally significant historical, cultural and natural resources of the region. We appreciate the continued support the Heritage Area receives from our Hudson Valley Congressional Representatives, both in Washington, D.C. and in the Valley.
Extending from Waterford, just north of Albany, to the northern border of New York City, the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area encompasses more than 4 million acres. The region is home to five National Historic Sites, 58 National Historic Landmarks, 89 historic districts and over 1,000 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Hudson River National Heritage Area is managed by the Hudson River Valley Greenway, with technical and financial support provided through federal funding.
Visit the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area and explore more than 400 years of history. Travel the Valley and see the villages where Dutch and Huguenot immigrants settled, crucial battles of the American Revolution were fought, magnificent landscapes were immortalized by the Hudson River School artists, grand mansions were built along the riverbanks, historic maritime towns were established and the Roosevelt's dedication to democracy and human rights established a lasting legacy.
Hudson River Estuary Program
The Hudson River Estuary Program protects and improves the natural and scenic Hudson River watershed for all its residents. The program was created in 1987 and extends from the Troy dam to upper New York Harbor.
Its core mission is to:
- ensure clean water
- protect and restore fish, wildlife and their habitats
- provide water recreation and river access
- adapt to climate change
- conserve the world famous scenery
The Estuary Program implements the Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda , a forward-looking plan, developed through significant community participation up and down the river. Numerous partners in government, the non-profit and business sectors, and concerned citizens help it succeed. The program is built on sound science and principles of ecosystem-based management. It is guided by the Hudson River Estuary Advisory Committee, which includes representatives of commercial and recreational fisheries, utility companies, local government, educators, researchers, conservationists and other river users.
Making Progress in the Hudson River Estuary
Estuary Program projects are helping to manage and restore key species like striped bass and bald eagles, protect key habitats such as underwater grass beds and tidal wetlands, and conserve critical plants, animals and habitats in the river basin landscape. We are cleaning up water pollution from persistent chemicals and human waste, and we are protecting our streams. We are using advanced technology to map the river bottom to help us manage river habitats and human uses. The Estuary Program's outreach staff provide information to connect local governments to the natural resources in their communities and the principles and legal framework for sound land use planning. This assistance allows counties, towns and villages in the Hudson River Valley to take ownership of their resources and define the future of their communities while contributing to the overall health and beauty of the region.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The State Park System is one of New York’s greatest treasures, encompassing 214 diverse state parks and historic sites with 330,000 acres of protected land and water. This fall we are proud to once again participate in the 2011 Hudson River Valley Ramble showcasing some of our flagship properties and hidden gems. Our Ramble line-up features a wide variety of engaging events and programs, from historic house tours, to battle reenactments, guided hikes, walks, nature education and adventures. New York's state parks and sites are always chock full of opportunities to explore and make one’s visit memorable. For information on New York State Parks and Historic Sites visit us at www.nysparks.com and follow us on http://www.facebook.com/nysparks
New York Heritage Weekend - May 2012
During New York Heritage Weekend, visitors will be welcomed free or at a reduced rate to many museums, historical societies, heritage areas, parks, historic battlefields and architecturally significant buildings in the Hudson River Valley. In addition, many historic sites are planning tours, special events and reenactments, which will highlight New York’s unique cultural heritage. Please visit the New York Heritage Weekend website, heritageweekend.org
On September 24, 2011 an estimated 180,000 volunteers around the nation will build trails and bridges, pull invasive weeds, plant trees, remove trash and have fun getting back to nature. Join the thousands who will take part in the 18th annual National Public Lands Day and help do your part for America’s lands.
The Ramble is pleased to be partnering with this effort, which is also a partner of National Estuaries Day, as well as the White House’s Let’s Move Outside initiative.
New York State Canal Corporation
The National Heritage Area is grateful to the Canal Corporation and looks forward to jointly working on and promoting the Hudson River Greenway and the Canalway Water Trails.