In Neversink, 3100 Acres of Forest Safeguarded for Future Generations

In the Catskills town of Neversink, the dream of ski slopes faded decades ago when alcohol bans kept developers at bay.

That twist of fate laid the groundwork for something far more lasting.

Today, the Blue Hill property’s forested watershed is now protected through a deal by Open Space Institute. OSI’s landmark acquisition of 3,100 acres strengthens watershed integrity, advances New York’s 30×30 climate goals, and secures the ecological legacy of this region.

In the latest episode of Kaatscast, the Catskills Podcast, Host/producer Brett Barry talks to OSI’s Charlie Burgess (OSI’s Northern NY Stewardship Manager) and Tom Gravel (OSI’s Northeast Project Manager). They explore the decades-long journey from speculation to stewardship—and what this land means for clean water, climate resilience, and the future of public access.

Image: Tom Gravel, OSI’s Northeast Project Manager, at the “Blue Hill” property within the Catskill Park—one of the largest parcels of privately-owned, contiguous forestland remaining within the Catskill Blue Line. (Credit: Brett Barry)