Saratoga Standard

Governor Hochul has enacted legislation aimed at safeguarding the Woods Hollow Nature Preserve, a significant natural resource located in Ballston Spa and Milton. The new law was sponsored by Senator Jim Tedisco and Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh and passed through the legislature to benefit local residents.

The Woods Hollow Nature Preserve, situated on Rowland Street north of Ballston Spa, spans 130 acres and offers passive recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, jogging, skiing, and nature trails. Under the new law (S.9269A), a conservation easement land transfer will move ownership from the Village of Ballston Spa to the Town of Milton. This ensures that the preserve remains protected and undeveloped indefinitely.

Senator Jim Tedisco emphasized the importance of preserving parkland for quality of life: "Beautiful, natural areas such as Woods Hollow Nature Preserve give residents opportunities to recreate, exercise and enjoy the splendor of the great outdoors." He expressed pride in sponsoring this legislation to protect the preserve for future generations.

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh highlighted her role in assisting local communities: "This law was critical to both localities in the purchase of the Woods Hollow Nature Preserve... With the conservation easement included, the land will continue to be green space."

Milton Town Supervisor Scott Ostrander praised Tedisco's and Walsh's efforts: "These two legislators went above and beyond to get this law passed... It’s leadership like this in our state that represents our town that makes a difference."

Ballston Spa Mayor Frank Rossi Jr. noted that transferring ownership would improve maintenance prospects: "The sale is critical to the future of Woods Hollow... it makes future maintenance of the large parcel more certain as it is likely to be better maintained by the Town."