K 479: Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation of Westchester County, New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 479 BY: M. of A. Burdick COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation of Westchester County, New York WHEREAS, The variety of public and private parks in our numerous counties, cities, towns, and villages across New York State serve as places to foster community and social connection while simultaneously providing environments which promote greater health and wellbeing; and WHEREAS, The protection and stewardship of our public parks yield countless benefits, and it is the sense of this Legislative Body to uphold these standards to preserve the health, beauty, and accessibility of our natural landscapes and resources for the enjoyment of all citizens and visitors, at present and into the future; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation of Westchester County, New York; and WHEREAS, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is the largest park in Westchester County, sprawling over 4,700 acres; and WHEREAS, This renowned park is a designated Biodiversity Reserve area and features hemlock gorges, dry uplands, wetlands, ponds, and two streams, all connected by 35 miles of trails; visitors can explore meadows, marshes, and vernal pools, as well as other notable diverse natural features; and WHEREAS, The two streams on the premises are known as the Cross River and Stone Hill River; they run through the park and are home to 13 species of native and stocked fish; and WHEREAS, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is also home to a blueberry-alder swamp--one of its richest ecosystems which supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and amphibians; and WHEREAS, The rustic woodlands at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation include evergreen plantations; oak, hickory, and maple forests; and wooded wetlands; and WHEREAS, Rich in history and geological diversity, visitors can find glacial erratics--large boulders deposited by glacial movement formed over 12,000 years ago--atop the moraine in the park; and WHEREAS, Former farm roads have been repurposed into hiking and cross--country skiing trails, and remnants of old farms, including stone walls and foundations from the 18th and 19th centuries, are still visible; and WHEREAS, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is also home to the Trailside Nature Museum--a small museum which also houses the Delaware Indian center; artifacts and information about the Delaware (or Lenape) people--a Native American tribe who inhabited the area--are on display in the educational center; and WHEREAS, With a plethora of appealing features for visitors, nature enthusiasts can experience lean-to camping, utilize beautiful areas for picnicking, and enjoy unique locations for fishing in addition to its popular hiking and cross-country skiing trails; and WHEREAS, Parks are a vital resource to the citizens of New York State and their innumerable offerings have been enjoyed for many years; it is no doubt that the notable Ward Pound Ridge Reservation will continue to draw visitors and prosper for centuries to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation of Westchester County, New York.