Washington, D.C. – At U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s urging, Albany Pine Bush Preserve, a 3,200-acre nature preserve, received a National Natural Landmark (NNL) designation. Senator Gillibrand sent a letter to U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) Secretary Sally Jewell in September 2013, highlighting the Albany Pine Bush’s unique ecosystem.
“The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is a unique sanctuary,” Senator Gillibrand said. “The National Natural Landmark status will help preserve this park for families to hike, bike, fish and explore right here in the Capital Region. This designation will give the Albany Pine Bush Preserve the recognition it deserves.”
“We are so honored to have the Albany Pine Bush be designated as a National Natural Landmark and sincerely appreciate Senator Gillibrand’s effort to pursue this designation for us,” said Christopher Hawver, Executive Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission.
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is a significant example of an inland pine barren ecosystem within the Appalachian Plateau and Appalachian Ranges. The preserve is home to more than 1,300 species of plants, 156 species of birds, 20 species of amphibians and reptiles, more than 30 species of mammals, and world-renowned populations of butterflies and moths – making the preserve a major draw for scientific study, conservation efforts and educational interest.
Senator Gillibrand sent a letter to Secretary of Interior Sally Jewell in September 2013, emphasizing the Albany Pine Bush Preserve’s unique ecosystem – noting that it serves as home to many diverse species of plants and animals, including the federally-listed endangered Karner blue butterfly.