Conservation Easement to Protect Drinking Water

NEWBURGH – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), in partnership with the Orange County Water Authority (OCWA), Orange County Land Trust (OCLT) and the City of Newburgh recently announced the acquisition of a conservation easement totaling 13.5 acres of land to protect source water quality and help safeguard public drinking water sources for the City of Newburgh.

The protected property is located within the Silver Stream Reservoir (Brown’s Pond) watershed, which serves as a backup drinking water supply for approximately 29,000 City residents and the Town of New Windsor. The conservation easement ensures the land will remain undeveloped and preserved in its natural forested state, helping to maintain high water quality for the community.

By keeping the land in its natural vegetative condition, the forest continues to act as a natural filter, reducing the risk of pollutants entering the watershed from stormwater runoff or future development. This proactive approach helps preserve the long-term integrity of the region’s water supply.

The conservation easement is part of broader statewide and regional efforts to safeguard drinking water sources, preserve open space, and protect natural resources. The project reflects years of collaboration among state, county, nonprofit, and private partners, highlighting the value of proactive investment and partnerships in environmental stewardship.