The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) recently launched a $100,000 challenge match to protect lands on Keuka Lake’s Bluff Point. Visible for miles, Bluff Point occupies the center of the “Y” for which Keuka Lake is well known.

Thanks to a generous $100,000 challenge pledge from FLLT members Dave and Brenda Rickey, the organization must raise $110,000 in additional funds to complete the fundraising campaign and receive the match.

Photo: Bill Hecht

Once almost entirely farmed, the Bluff’s slopes are now blanketed by maturing hardwood forests which play a vital role in helping to prevent erosion and minimize nutrient runoff into Keuka Lake. They also host a diversity of wildlife and help define the lake’s scenic character.

To ensure the future of the Bluff’s scenic woodlands and the health of Keuka Lake against the threat of encroaching development, the FLLT is working with property owners to secure lands through direct acquisition as well as the use of conservation easements. Land protected with perpetual conservation easements remains in private ownership and on the tax rolls.

The FLLT recently launched this effort through the purchase of two forested parcels located on East Bluff Drive. Totaling 57 acres, these properties feature mature stands of oak, hickory, and maple, and several rugged ravines that host small tributaries to Keuka Lake. The FLLT intends to develop a hiking trail on one of the two parcels during the coming year.

A fundraising campaign with the goal of $610,000 is underway to cover the cost of acquiring these lands and providing for their long-term management. The campaign was launched with the allocation of $200,000 from existing funds and a generous anonymous gift.

To make a gift to the FLLT and leverage the match, please visit fllt.org/keukabluffpoint.