Strong Relationships Keep Protected Land and Water Thriving
The Town of Penfield is replanting the above section of Hipp Brook Preserve with native shrubs and plants to ensure the long-term health of this critically important wetland. (Photo by Elliotte Bowerman)
When Genesee Land Trust creates a public nature preserve, we promise to keep it safe forever.
From trail maintenance and access improvements to removing invasives and planting native trees, nearly 1,000 land trust members like you support 19 public nature preserves.
Your support also allows us to continue creating new nature preserves and ensures that existing preserves receive the care they need.
In addition to year-round physical work, caring for a nature preserve requires strong, long-lasting connections with many people.
“We take community relationships very seriously,” says Kevin Farrell, Genesee Land Trust’s Director of Conservation Programs. “Caring neighbors and supportive town staff make a huge difference.”
Good Relationships, Good Results
Hipp Brook Preserve in the Town of Penfield illustrates the importance of good neighbors.
Tucked into a cozy development off Jackson Road, this 95-acre property protects one of Penfield’s most important wetlands. It’s also critical for managing flooding as extreme storms increase with the changing climate.
The Preserve, which opened to the public in 1999, took almost 10 years to stitch together as a vibrant wildlife habitat and a lovely place to visit.
Many people who live near the property tell us they visit regularly, often sharing news about wildlife, trail conditions, and potential issues.
What Happened at Hipp Brook Preserve?
In December 2022, dozens of concerned neighbors reached out to the Land Trust when they noticed a section of trees being cut down and removed.
We immediately called the Town and discovered it was necessary to fix a sewer line that runs through part of the Preserve.
We relayed this information back to residents and connected with local community groups. We will continue to share updates about the property.
Restoration is Underway
Thanks to caring neighbors, proactive dialogue, and our relationship with town leaders, we now have a restoration plan with the Town that will not only restore the land, but also support the Preserve into the future.
The work, currently in progress, will support access for future sewer projects, enhance visitor parking, improve the trail, and maintain the wetland’s health.
“Decades from now this critical wetland will still be thriving,” Kevin says, “That’s part of our promise of forever.”
Photos by Nigel P. Kent, Gloria Weyerts, Molly Sauter, and staff.