The New Baltimore Conservancy is dedicated to conserving and enhancing the natural, cultural and historic resources in and around New Baltimore NY. Activities and projects of the Conservancy include:
- Maintaining three parcels of land of natural and historic value: the Hannacroix Creek Preserve (HCR), the Hudson River Interpretive Trail (HRIT), and Scenic Hudson's Long View Park. These parcels,
owned by the Open Space Institute, the Town of New Baltimore, and Scenic Hudson respectively, include river and creek beds and banks, a tidal pool, wetlands, upland wooded areas, historic foundations, and structures. The Conservancy builds and maintains trails, bridges, and walkways that provide walking access to the lands from a parking area on State Route 144 near the Albany County line.
- Provides informational resources about the flora, fauna, and structures on the land, including occasional nature, walks led by qualified naturalists or historians. Monitors the presence in the river and creek of species at risk, including eels and herring. These activities involve students from local schools whenever possible. Conducts the roadside clean-up of the length of Route 144 through New Baltimore as well as the bank of the Hudson River through the HRIT. This activity takes place primarily in the spring in conjunction with the celebration of Earth Day.
- Sponsors tours of historic homes and gardens, both in the hamlet and in the hills in the western part of the town.
- Celebrates the Hudson River with an annual party in Cornell Park in the heart of the hamlet as well as kayak/canoe excursions.
- Sponsors concerts that highlight local talent in historic and natural settings.
- Offers educational programs that complement its mission and goals. Topics range from birds, wildflowers, and other flora/ and fauna to historic buildings and/or events.
- Sponsors a variety of social events to bring the people of the town and surrounding area together to celebrate people, events, or places.
- Honors a local student with a scholarship each spring. Dues are $15 per individual, $10 for students, and $25 per family per calendar year. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30, generally in the community room of the Cornell Hook and Ladder Co on the corner of New Baltimore Ave and Gill Rd. In the warm months, meetings may be replaced by trail work so it is best to consult the calendar or contact one of the officers. All are welcome to attend.
