A former ski area is now part of a brand new state forest in New York.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently announced the acquisition of more than 1,200 acres in the town of Yorkshire, Cattaraugus County, to create the Blue Hill State Forest. The acquisition – the first state forest added in the region since 1963 – will preserve critical open space and establishes the forest for watershed protection, timber production, and public recreation.
The property contains forests, ponds, fields, and access to Cattaraugus Creek, and was operated as Bluemont Ski Resort until 1979.
DEC’s acquisition will provide increased recreational opportunities for the public, expand wildlife habitat, support ecosystem health, and conserve natural resources. Immediate plans for the property are to post and sign the boundaries, remove the old ski resort buildings, and conduct a full property assessment.
DEC acquired the property for $2.1 million from landowner Kingbrook Funding, LLC, through the state’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).
Maps and additional information about Blue Hill State Forest can be found on DECinfo Locator.