The event is free and open to the public and will begin with brief words from project supporters and leaders and then follow with a ribbon cutting. Speakers include Town of Malta Supervisor Paul Sausville, Devin Rigolino, Stewardship Coordinator for Saratoga PLAN, and Carrie Woerner, NYS Assemblywoman. Malta Supervisor Paul Sausville said, “This day will celebrate the success of the Town Of Malta, Saratoga PLAN, NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, and State Department of Environmental Conservation to preserve a large wildlife sanctuary in Saratoga County. It is a beautiful place where people can enter and quietly observe the simple lives of the birds, fish and wildlife around us.”
Participants will have the option to explore the new preserve, view interpretive signage describing the land’s rich ecological values and cultural history, check out the new wetland overlook. Paddlers are encouraged to bring their boats and try the new kayak/canoe launch that leads right into the Anthony Kill where it joins Round Lake.
This 90-acre preserve encompasses critical environmental assets including both wetlands and woodlands, and offers ample opportunities for a variety of recreational activities. With a long-term partnership envisioned, Saratoga PLAN and the Town of Malta acquired the land that now makes up the Round Lake Preserve from the Sweeney family in 2008. They have since worked together to preserve this land adjacent to Round Lake and the Anthony Kill, protecting significant natural and archeological resources.
“For thousands of years, Native Americans spent summers camping, canoeing, and fishing along the shores of Round Lake and the Anthony Kill,” says Maria Trabka, Executive Director of Saratoga PLAN. “Future generations will now have the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful and special place, thanks to the partnership efforts of Saratoga PLAN, the Town of Malta, Saratoga County, New York State, and many private donors and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who pitched in to preserve our heritage and our future.”
The resultant Round Lake Preserve provides multiple passive recreational and cultural opportunities to the community including, but not limited to, improved site access, a formalized parking area, accessible trails, boardwalk, fishing access, viewing areas, educational opportunities, and a car-top boat launch. This key environmental area contains a significant amount of scenic wetlands, woodland, meadows, and fields.