350 Acres Protected on Mount Darby
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The hills and mountains of the Berkshire Taconic Landscape form a large backbone of uninterrupted forest. Here, wide ranging animals like black bear, fisher and bobcat find safe passages, while migratory birds rely on these woods for critical breeding habitat. Dense forests capture and filter rainfall into nearby rivers and streams, sustaining the sources of clean drinking water for thousands of people.
"This new purchase adds to the existing protected lands that The Nature Conservancy, BNRC and others have conserved over the years," said Rob Warren, director of protection and policy for The Nature Conservancy. "Keeping these forests intact and healthy truly contributes to our global conservation goals."
"Mount Darby was one of the last unprotected summits surrounding the Jug End State Reservation," said Narain Schroeder, director of land conservation for the Berkshire Natural Resources Council. "Now, thanks to our partners and contributors, it is conserved and open to the public. The road to the summit is a nice walk, a great ski and boasts blueberry bushes that are ripening as we speak."
Funding for the $624,000 purchase came in part from the state ($400,000) and from the Thieriot Foundation ($100,000). Additional funds were raised locally from Berkshire residents who support the long term preservation of the land.
BNRC will own the property, while a conservation restriction – which allows for public recreational access – will be held by the Department of Fish and Game. The communication towers at the mountain’s summit were not included in the purchase and remain in private ownership.
"This project has resulted in the protection of 350 acres of forested habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species including moose, black bear, bobcat, wild turkey, many songbirds and a state-listed endangered species," said Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Mary Griffin. "The Department of Fish and Game and Division of Fisheries and Wildlife are proud to be partners with The Nature Conservancy and BNRC in this important land conservation effort."
