Press Release: New York State, June 23, 1998

Addition of the Spier Falls Makes Moreau Lake Ninth Largest State Park in New York

Governor George E. Pataki and the Open Space Institute joined state and local officials today in announcing state acquisition of 3,216 acres of open space in Saratoga and Warren counties that will be added to Moreau Lake State Park.

"This acquisition provides unparalleled access to the Hudson River and adds extraordinary and spectacular open space lands to one of the Capital Region's most popular parks," said Governor Pataki. "Today's announcement means more families will be able to enjoy some of our state's most beautiful scenery."

The land, known as Spier Falls, frames the Hudson River as it runs from west to east, between Spier Falls and the Sherman Island Hydrodams. The expanded park will include public access to nearly 14 miles of shoreline on the north and south sides of the Hudson River in the towns of Moreau, Corinth, Queensbury and Lake Luzerne. The acquisition was made possible using funding from the 1996 Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act.

"During the past three years, Governor Pataki has proven to be an excellent steward of the environment, adding thousands of acres to the State Parks System and promoting tourism throughout the state," Senator Joseph L. Bruno said. "The addition of this important and scenic parcel to Moreau Lake State Park will provide an added boost to the local economy, while at the same time protecting these lands for the enjoyment of future generations."

The Open Space Institute (OSI) acquired the parcel from a subsidiary of Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation. With today's announcement, the state has purchased the property from OSI for $2.2 million.

"As wonderful and varied as New York's landscapes are, I think that with this purchase of Spier Falls, State Parks will have taken the pick of the litter, and I can think of no better owner and steward," said Christopher J. Elliman, president of the Open Space Institute. "This awe-inspiring countryside so eloquently described by James Fenimore Cooper is forever protected, thanks to the dedication of the Wallace Fund and the foresight of Governor Pataki."

The addition of the Spier Falls property will make Moreau Lake State Park the ninth largest state park in New York with 4,110 acres.

Governor Pataki also announced a partnership between Niagara Mohawk and State Parks for the operation of two boat launches and the management of the power line corridors.

"We are proud of our reputation as guardian of the resources entrusted to our care and committed to innovative service to the communities and the environment of upstate New York," Bill Davis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation said. "I welcome and applaud Governor Pataki's partnership in this project."

Most of the 3,216 acres are heavily wooded with steep cliffs rising above the Hudson River which provides dramatic views of the area and offers significant value for habitat preservation.

State Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro said, "The Spier Falls property is simply stunning and represents a critical addition to Moreau Lake State Park. Thanks to Governor Pataki's efforts, we will be able to dramatically increase recreational opportunities to park visitors and provide a boost to the local economy. I congratulate our partners at the Open Space Institute for laying the groundwork in acquiring this magnificent stretch of land."

State Parks will work with OSI, DEC and local municipalities on a master plan to determine appropriate future uses of the property and to address management concerns.

"Under Governor Pataki's leadership, New York is engaged in the most aggressive campaign to protect open spaces and improve State Parks in this century," said Environmental Conservation Commissioner John P. Cahill. "The purchase of Spier Falls and the addition of more than 3,000 acres of land to Moreau Lake State Park is another important step forward in this historic effort to improve our State Parks and public lands."

Senator Hugh Farley said, "Today's announcement is excellent news for all of us who care about the people and unique resources of the Adirondack foothills. Governor Pataki's long-standing commitment to environmental protection coincides with his understanding of the crucial contribution of tourism and outdoor recreation to the local economy. This is good new for the environment and good news for the economy."

Assemblyman Bobby D'Andrea said, "I applaud the Governor and Commissioners Castro and Cahill as well as the Open Space Institute and Niagara Mohawk for coming together to protect these magnificent lands for all the people of our state and nation. The expanded state park will enhance the recreation and tourist economy in the region in both the winter and summer as well as providing significant land conservation for Saratoga County."

Assemblywoman Betty Little said, "I am grateful to the Governor and Commissioner Castro for their response to the needs of the taxpayers of the Town of Luzerne. The participation of DEC and State Parks to utilize this land in Warren County is to be commended."

Moreau Lake State Park lies directly south of the newly-acquired property, boasts a large, spring fed lake, 148 campsites, hunting, swimming, cross country skiing, fishing and hiking trails.