Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Location: Northwest Bay Conference Center, SUNY Adirondack
640 Bay Road, Queensbury NY
Join fellow landowners, Adirondack leaders, conservation experts, and forest professionals for an immersive conference dedicated to empowering private forest stewards with the knowledge and tools needed to protect and enhance our precious woodland resources, now and for future generations.
Opening remarks from SUNY Adirondack President, Dr. Kristine D. Duffy, Ed.D
Featuring Keynote Speaker: Kim Elliman Retired CEO, Open Space Institute
Drawing from decades of conservation leadership, Kim Elliman brings unparalleled insight into effective land conservation and the valuable role of private stewardship.
Our comprehensive program addresses today's most pressing challenges:
Protecting value and resources for future generations: Why You Should Consider a Property Master Plan
Property master plans, like UMPs, document your vision and provide clarity for current members and future generations. This session explores the comprehensive planning process—from initial discussions through detailed planning to building consensus and securing necessary approvals.
Economic Tools for Long-term property planning that protects land, water, and other resources
Balancing sound resource management with long-term financial health of private property creates numerous challenges. In this session we'll discuss the economic tools available from both private entities and the State, highlighting overlooked options and their potential benefits for sustainable property management.
Ensuring Your Land's Legacy Thrives Across Generations
Sound governance structures and knowledge transfer processes ensure generational continuity and stability. Today's time constraints, availability issues, and communication differences present unprecedented challenges. This session examines various ownership entities and strategies for cross-generational collaboration to preserve your property's legacy.
Combating the Escalating Threat of Invasive Species to Northeastern Forests and Waters
Invasive species threaten our lands, waters, and enjoyment of cherished natural resources. This session explores the spread of established invasives in our region, emerging threats from new species, climate change's role in accelerating their progress, and practical strategies for property owners to combat these harmful invaders.
Adirondack Forest Management: Challenges and Opportunities
Private forestry in the Adirondacks presents unique challenges and opportunities. This session explores how regulation, climate change, market conditions, and workforce issues impact forest management decisions for landowners and forestry professionals in our distinctive region.
Maximizing Your Forest Investment: Professional Partnerships, Climate Adaptation, and Strategic Management for Adirondack Landowners
In this session we will examine forest management strategies for private landowners, including professional partnerships, climate change adaptations, strategic management tools, and financial assistance programs designed specifically for Adirondack forests to maximize health, value, and long-term sustainability.
The Vital Role of Private Landowners in Adirondack Communities; future relations between landowners and local communities.
This session examines the interconnected relationships between private landowners and communities in the Adirondack Park. Learn how thoughtful landowner decisions and active community engagement strengthen local resilience, economic vitality, and regional sustainability within this unique landscape of private, State and municipal lands.
Whether you are an individual owner, member of a club, part of a multi-generational landownership, or a forest professional this conference offers practical insights and valuable connections to help you become a more effective steward of your land.
Register today to secure your place among forward-thinking private landowners committed to preserving our forests for generations to come.
