The Columbia Land Conservancy works with the community to conserve the farmland, forests, wildlife habitat, and rural character of Columbia County, strengthening connections between people and the land.
Since our founding in 1986, the Columbia Land Conservancy has collaborated with partners to preserve the County’s vibrant rural character. We have conserved more than 30,000 acres of farmland, forests, and wildlife habitat to ensure clean air and water, healthy ecosystems, a strong agricultural sector, and a rich variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. CLC works with the community to cultivate connection to the land by providing outdoor and educational activities at our 10 Public Conservation Areas, to support agriculture by ensuring prime farmland continues to be available to the next generation of farmers, and to promote land protection and smart land use planning.
Current Public Conservation Area Projects
Siegel-Kline Kill Meadow Restoration
You may notice a patch of ground near County Route 21 that looks recently disturbed. This is part of a restoration project to increase habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies, as well as birds. Please stay on the trails as young plants are fragile.
Cowberry Crossing Farm at Overmountain Conservation Area
If you pass East Ancram and Overmountain Roads, you may see some new visitors at Overmountain Conservation Area! CLC is leasing land to certified bio-dynamic and organic farmers from Cowberry Crossing Farm who are grazing sheep there. The grazing will help to maintain historic pasture and improve habitat for wildlife, all while supporting local agriculture!
Overmountain Conservation Area Meadow Restoration
CLC is working with volunteers, contractors, and scientists to transform a corn field into habitat for native pollinators and regionally rare grassland bird species like the bobolink and savannah sparrow. This restoration area is close to the Kite Hill parking lot on Catalano Road. Please stay on trails as young plants are fragile.
High Falls Invasive Species Removal Project
The Red Trail is currently closed while we remove invasive species threatening the health of the forest. You can still access the waterfall overlook via the Green Trail.
Hand Hollow Trail Improvements
CLC staff and volunteers are working to improve sections of the Blue Trail from the Gale Hill parking lot to Meizinger Lake. Please do not ride horses or bicycles on this section of the trail, especially during wet weather.