If you think Clifton Park is nothing but big-box retail stores, think again! Although there are undeniably lots of places to shop, there are also 1,000 acres of natural areas open to the public, according to The Daily Gazette. That’s a whole lot of space that many locals and visitors might not even know exists!
To celebrate and raise awareness about its green areas, the town will be hosting Open Space Day on May 16th beginning at 10am. Family-friendly nature walks will be offered at seven of the town’s natural areas, including Ushers Road State Forest, Woodcock Preserve, Elks Trail, and Garnsey Park. There will also be a celebration at Historic Grooms Tavern with “refreshments, a kids’ birding program, and an open space presentation by town officials,” The Daily Gazette reports.
Believe it or not, Clifton Park actually has an Open Space, Trails and Riverfront Committee that works to acquire land, enact conservation easements to protect water quality, and conserve natural areas for wildlife habitats and farmland. There is also a Trails Subcommittee that suggests plans for new pedestrian and bike paths throughout the town’s natural areas.
One of the committee’s upcoming projects is to build an access point for small, non-motorized boats where the end of Ferry Drive meets the Mohawk River. The Erie Canalway Heritage Fund is providing financial support for this project, which will also include improvements to the existing parking lot and work on the riverside trail.
While Clifton Park is a great place to go when you need something from the big box stores, it is also a great destination for relaxing and enjoying nature. Want to learn more about the town’s green spaces? Participate in Open Space Day on May 16!
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