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Clean Water The forests of the Rensselaer Plateau help provide Clean Water: to over 100,000 people using Troy Municipal water to many more people whose wells are recharged by the Plateau in our streams, lakes and wetlands "Native forest plants help the ground absorb water, ensuring it reaches aquifers and resevoirs. Forests not only do this better than machines can, but for much less money." 1

Clean Air Forest trees naturally clear our air by using carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.

Habitat for Wildlife The forests of the Rensselaer Plateau provide habitat for many large mammals and forest interior bird species. These species require large unbroken tracks of forest land to breed, thrive and survive. The Plateau is home to large mammals such as moose, black bear, river otter, bobcat, mink and fisher. It is home to forest interior bird species such as the barred owl, hermit thrush, black-throated blue warber, ovenbird and red-eyed vireo. The Plateau has been designated an Important Bird Area by Audubon New York.

Locally Grown Forest Products The forests of the Rensselaer Plateau support a local forest economy which produces forest products such as hard and soft wood lumber, fire wood and maple syrup. These Working Forests also help keep the land in forest by reducing the economic pressure on landowners to sell their land for development. This means the forests will continue to provide all of the other benefits such as Clean Water, etc... Buying local forest products is another way you can help to keep our forests in forest.

Scenic Beauty The scenic beauty of the forests of the Rensselaer Plateau enhance the community's quality of life. They enhance the aesthetics for those on the Plateau and those viewing from the surrounding areas. The trees also provide shade and cooling.

Recreational Activities Beckon Many recreational activities are enjoyed on the Plateau. Consider doing some birding, cross country skiing, cycling (road or mountain bike), atv riding, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, paddling, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, swimming, or trail running. Join in on some more organized events such as biathlons, orienteering, triathlons or running races. The Plateau is the perfect place to play, or simply take in the pleasure of a quiet walk. Recreational activities bring value to the community in and of themselves, and they also bring enthusiasts who stop at the local stores, restaurants and other businesses, supporting the local economy.

Future Generations The Vision of the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance is that future generations, our children, grandchildren and beyond will enjoy all the things about the Plateau that we enjoy today.

Hunting & Fishing Hunting and fishing have a long tradition on the Plateau. The forests support a full gamut of game animals and the streams of the Plateau are home to native brook trout and other sport fish. Hunters help the forests grow by keeping in check the deer population that would otherwise eat the new small trees before they have a chance to grow. As with other 'recreational users', sportsmen also contribute to the local economy by frequenting local businesses.

Please help us to conserve the forests of the Rensselaer Plateau that provide many benefits such as:

• Clean Water
• Clean Air
• Habitat for Wildlife
• Locally Grown Forest Products
• Scenic Beauty
• Recreation Opportunities
• Hunting and Fishing

The Rensselaer Plateau Alliance (RPA), established in 2006, is a diverse group of organizations and people who want to conserve and protect the forested character of the Rensselaer Plateau and the many economic and environmental benefits it provides. A grassroots organization, the RPA is people living in the area who share a common interest in ensuring that future generations will experience and value the many benefits of the plateau.

Rensselaer Plateau Alliance, Inc. is a New York State Not for Profit Corporation. We are tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All contributions, donations and membership dues paid to the RPA since October 6, 2008 are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

Learn more:

About the Plateau

About the RPA

About Resources for Landowners

About Recreational Opportunities

New!

GIS Based Maps!

We have new Maps!

Summary and Results of Public Workshop #1.

Alliance Members:

Member of:

Mission Statement:

The Rensselaer Plateau Alliance promotes and facilitates the protection of the Rensselaer Plateau’s undeveloped and unfragmented forests. These possess many significant natural features and provide natural habitats for plants and animals; forest products, recreation and most important, water and air quality.