Extensive Forests Preserved in Clinton

We are excited to share the news of the permanent conservation of 106 acres of extensive forest and the headwaters of Crum Elbow Creek in the Town of Clinton. Owned by Bob Schoch, the preservation of Primrose Hill Farm protects extensive woodlands that provide a thriving habitat for wildlife and native species while contributing to the vital production of life-giving clean air and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change through the forest’s ability to store carbon. It also preserves the headwaters of Crum Elbow Creek, an important Hudson River tributary that drains a 19-square-mile watershed and serves as critical habitat for migratory fish. Showcasing the protected land’s cultural and historical significance, a treasured local Christmas tree farm on the property has been in operation for more than 60 years. Bob’s commitment to land conservation exemplifies the many ways in which protecting our crucial forested lands and clean water benefits our communities and ensures the future of sensitive ecosystems. Through his decision to protect this land, he has enhanced the beauty of our local landscape and taken a crucial step toward securing indispensable resources such as clean water and fresh air for future generations. His choice to protect his land through conservation will have a lasting impact and profoundly improve the ecological health of our region for wildlife and people forever.

The 50-acre woodland that encompasses a large portion of the property is rich in tree species, including maples, oaks, shagbark hickory, and black walnut. The forest also provides critical connectivity and habitat for a wide variety of fauna, including hawks, songbirds, turtles, bats, black bears, and bobcats. In addition to the critical conservation of the headwaters of Crum Elbow Creek, 13 acres of marshes and swamps are also found on the property, providing yet more diverse ecosystems and habitats for animal and plant species. In addition to its many ecological attributes, the Primrose Hill Farm Christmas tree operation has been a beloved local institution, providing families with their linchpin holiday decoration since 1962.

The protection of this property was made possible in part by funding from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Farmland Protection Implementation Grants and Dutchess County’s Partnership for Manageable Growth Program.

Since 1985, the DLC has been honored to partner with hundreds of landowners to conserve more than 48,000 acres of our beloved countryside and crucial natural resources. The commitment of so many to preserving and stewarding the world around us is inspiring and a reason for us all to celebrate the powerful spirit of land conservation in Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley.