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Sparta Township and Ogdensburg Borough, Sussex County
225 Acres
Lower stretches of the Wallkill River are now part of the National
Wildlife Refuge system. Certainly every bit as important to conservation
are the upper portions of this pristine river. The Trust’s
218 acres of protected habitat are testimony to the wildlife resource
values of the area. Open marsh wetlands are documented habitats
for federally protected bog turtles. Numerous plants are key indicator
species for these unique wetland ecosystems. The main stem of
the Wallkill was reportedly used as a major transportation route
for Native Americans moving northward between summering areas
and hunting grounds. Waterfowl also utilize the river during their
migrations, hiding in the patchwork of backwaters, oxbows and
beaver ponds. The Trust continues to focus attention along the
Wallkill, and seeks future land preservation opportunities to
enhance conservation in this region.
Public Access and Uses:
Many small individual properties form this preserve. Access and
parking at each preserve varies. No maintained hiking trails are
available. However, some use can be made of old woods roads for
birding and short hikes. The Trust allows registration
for deer hunting at this preserve. Hunters should take special note of adjacent
ownership including schools, playgrounds and private homes and
property.
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