Governments Begin to Stir on Sterling Forest Purchase
Although the State of New York has not yet committed any funds to acquisition of Sterling Forest (the recently adopted NYS budget does have about $18 million available for land acquisition through the Environmental Protection Fund), Gov. Pataki said in a recent letter that he "recognize[s] the value of Sterling Forest's preservation to all New Yorkers, and will make certain that funding is available for New York's share in its purchase." The U.S. Senate has just authorized $17.5 million for use in purchasing the Forest as public open space; similar legislation is pending in the House. Several NY and NJ Representatives will be working together with Rep. Hinchey (D-26-NY), a member of the National Parks, Forests, and Lands subcommittee of the Resources Committee--the first in line to consider a bill. The Sterling Forest Corporation proposes to pave and develop much of the 17,500 acre woodland. In order to appropriate the authorized funds, Congress must also pass legislation which will allow the Palisades Interstate Park Commission to receive federal funds in order to purchase the land. The Sterling Forest Corporation has recently said it is open to public purchase of all or some of the land at a "fair and realistic price," hinting that $50 million doesn't meet its qualifications. For information on Sterling Forest preservation issues, contact Sterling Forest Resources, 914-294-3098. To file comments on Sterling Forest Corporation's plan (due by July 26), contact the NY State Dept. of Conservation's New Paltz office, 914-294-3098.
