Activists Rally at Whitney Park to Urge Conservation Action

Activists gathered at Whitney Park to launch a “paddle protest,” aimed at urging New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to add the area to the Adirondack Forest Preserve. This park, which has been prioritized for land protection for over 50 years, encompasses 22 lakes and ponds, along with more than 100 miles of undeveloped shorelines.

The protest highlighted the ecological significance of Whitney Park. Roger Downs, conservation director for the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Whitney Park presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve a vast and ecologically vital landscape in the heart of the Adirondacks. With decisive action, Governor Hochul can secure a landmark conservation success that will benefit generations of New Yorkers.”

Whitney Park is currently owned by a trust established by the late John Hendrickson, who passed away unexpectedly in 2024. Prior to his death, Hendrickson expressed concerns regarding the potential management of the lands by the state. According to a press release from Protect the Adirondacks, the trustee for Hendrickson’s estate indicated earlier in 2025 a willingness to engage with the state of New York regarding the property’s asking price.

In her remarks, Claudia Braymer, executive director of Protect the Adirondacks, urged the governor to pursue the acquisition of Whitney Park. “We urge Governor Hochul and her administration to pursue purchasing Whitney Park to add it to the Forest Preserve,” Braymer said. The press release also noted that the trust is currently negotiating a sale of the land to Todd Industries, a resort developer based in Texas.

The call for action emphasizes that incorporating Whitney Park into the Forest Preserve would significantly expand the existing William C. Whitney Wilderness Area. The protesters expressed concern that development could compromise the ecological integrity of the region.

As negotiations continue, advocates maintain that swift action is essential. The paddle protest served not only as a demonstration of support for conservation but also as a reminder of the urgency surrounding the future of Whitney Park. The outcome of these discussions could shape land management and environmental conservation efforts in New York for years to come.