Saratoga P L A N Inc

Stewardship program - plan provides land stewardship for 7,560 acres of conserved lands which are owned in fee title, protected by conservation easements, or managed for municipalities. Lands owned by plan are managed primarily for natural resource protection, in accordance with management plans, allowing for compatible public access at some sites for recreational and educational uses while maintaining conservation values and ecological functions. 139 volunteers received training and coordination in order to assist with management of the 12 nature preserves which are open for public access, hiking, contemplation, nature observation, artistic activities, experiential educational explorations, and enjoyment by all visitors. To ensure that conservation values are upheld in perpetuity, plan's staff members monitor and enforce the terms of 58 conservation easement agreements on 5,267 acres in close consultation with the land owners.

Education and outreach - through an active, multi-faceted education and outreach program, plan fosters an understanding and appreciation for the landscape of saratoga county and its relationship to the well-being of the community. The importance of the landscape and natural resource protection to public health, quality of life, economic vitality, and life support systems are emphasized through written communications, website, social media, fact sheets, newsletters, press releases, exhibits, outings, and tours, numerous student internships, interpretive signage, field activities, and in-person presentations to community groups, field trips, conferences, service opportunities, tours, and other forums. Plan maintains 30 nature preserves for public benefit and natural resource protection.