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 leads a unique regional partnership to restore the Hudson in ways that support the quality of life so valued by Hudson Valley residents.

The mission of the program is to:

• conserve the natural resources for which the Hudson is legendary
• promote full public use and enjoyment of the river 
• clean up the pollution that affects our ability to use and enjoy it

The Estuary Program implements the Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda through numerous partners in government, the non-profit and business sectors, and concerned citizens. 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 the commercial fishing industry, recreational anglers, utility companies, local government, educators, researchers, conservationists and other river users. This helps us engage many representatives of the public in working together toward common goals.
 

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, along with funding support through the Estuary Grant Program, 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.

Many estuary projects are tied to the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage of discovery and the anticipated commemoration of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial in 2009. In preparation, the Program has worked diligently to expand opportunities for citizens to connect to the River by upgrading boat launches and preserving valuable open space in sight of the river.

 

Heritage Weekend

During New York Heritage Weekend, a highlight of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial  Celebration, 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, the Champlain Valley, and New York City. In addition, many historic sites are planning tours, special events and reenactments, which will highlight New York’s unique cultural heritage. Participating Counties are: Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Orange, New York, Putnam, Queens, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Ulster, Warren and Westchester. For the most up to date information and a full list of participating sites, please see the Heritage Weekend website: www.heritageweekend.org .