Environment DEC
From the July 2003 issue
DEC, Town of Greece to Acquire 108 Acres Near Braddock Bay
More than 108 acres of land in two parcels will be added to the Braddock Bay State Wildlife Management Area. The land will be used to conserve open space, protect rare natural resources for migratory birds and native species and enhance public recreation. "We are building upon our partnership with the Town of Greece and the Trust for Public Land to benefit New Yorkers and migratory birds that have come to depend on this area," said DEC Commissioner Erin M. Crotty.
Purchases and Plans
New York State will purchase 71.6 acres of land for $587,218 using the state's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). Future uses will include planting of native grasses, trees and shrubs to provide bird habitat and the formation of nest structures and other methods to help foster growth of native and migratory bird populations. The land will be used for hunting, fishing, hiking, birding, cross-country skiing and other day uses.
The Town of Greece will purchase 37 acres of adjacent land for $505,000, using a matching grant of $250,000 awarded through Monroe County's Green Space Initiative. The town and the state will manage the property in a way that is consistent with Wildlife Management Area objectives. The Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Plan Advisory Committee, a group comprised of area homeowners, local and state officials and sporting and birding groups, will provide input.
The land being acquired is known as the Dahlheim property, as it is owned by James and Margaret Dahlheim. It includes about 3,500 feet of frontage along Salmon Creek with connections to Braddock Bay and Lake Ontario. It is currently used primarily for agriculture. The Trust for Public Land (TPL) will facilitate the sale to both the town and the state.
Environmental Importance
Images of birds that inhabit the
Braddock Bay BCA are illustrated on
an observation platform
Braddock Bay was designated a Bird Conservation Area (BCA), one of 25 statewide, as part of a program to safeguard and enhance bird populations and their habitats. The area has also been designated a Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Area by the New York State Department of State and was identified as a priority area in the state's 2002 Open Space Conservation Plan.
TPL is a national, nonprofit land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens and natural areas, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.
