INTERNATIONAL COUNTRYSIDE STEWARDSHIP EXCHANGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE 1991 NORTHEAST EXCHANGE

Introduction

The Catskill Mountains, well known as a resort and recreational area, occupy 6,000 square miles in mid-eastern New York. The region has a diverse agricultural economy and a variety of small and medium-sized industries. Located within 100 miles of New York City, this mountainous region of great scenic beauty is under increasing development pressure for vacation and second homes. The Catskills serve as the principle watershed for New York City’s water supply. Six reservoirs provide over 90% of the city’s water supply.

In the past most subdivision occurred when a landowner sold property to small local subdividers. The appearance of out-of-state land companies that platted large acreages and advertised in major metropolitan newspapers dramatically altered the scene. This land boom has occurred with little or no land use planning or regulation. Virtually all subdivisions in Mountaintop created between 1980 and 1988 were exempt from review. Lack of planning places the overall environmental quality of the Moutaintop and the quality of its major streams in jeopardy.

At the eastern edge of the Catskills is a plateau known as “the Mountaintop.” This 300 square mile area, bounded by mountains over 3,000 feet in elevation, typifies virtually all of the land use, environmental protection, and community development issues found throughout the region. This area is the focus of the case study.

Observations

The exchange team found the landscape diverse, robust, beautiful and valued by local residents. Protected lands comprise 40% of the area and are viewed as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. The people are resourceful and capable. In contrast to many other rural areas, the population is increasing.

Many people within the Catskill Park region believe they do not have enough control over important land use decisions because of New York City watershed regulations and the proximity to protected state lands. Concern also exists over the number and complexity of regulatory programs and the lack of coordination among them. Drinking water is a major export of the region, but there are few economic incentives to maintain its quality.

Despite a long history of tourism and an attractive marketable image, recent efforts to promote the Catskills have had limited success. There are many cultural landscapes of national significance associated with the Hudson River School of Artists, but the public and local communities are largely unaware of them. The area needs to diversify to complement the ski industry and provide year round economic activity.

The decline and seasonal nature of some Catskill community economies has led to a dilapidated appearance, which creates an impression of a lack of community pride. There is little communication and cooperation among towns with similar concerns and problems, although the recently established Coalition of Watershed Towns is a potential step forward.

Key Issues

• Accommodation of development in a public water supply watershed.
• Revitalization of villages and hamlets.
• Accommodating tourism without destroying scenic and environmental quality.

Recommendations

A Catskills Council, with locally elected officials or designees making up the majority, should be created. Other representatives should come from area business and tourism interests, environmental groups, state government and NYC watershed officials. It should be funded by public and private sources.

The council should develop a coherent vision for the future and provide a forum for discussion of issues. The council should take the lead protecting and enhancing local resources and the quality of life. It should encourage diversification of the economy, negotiate with city, state and federal governments particularly on water issues, integrate and improve the efficiency of government regulatory permit processes, help protect water quality and develop better sewage treatment systems.

The exchange recommended a moratorium on New York City’s proposed watershed regulations. This would provide time for negotiation between local governments and New York City. It would also create the opportunity for Catskill municipalities, the State of New York, and New York City to develop a partnership to protect the region’s water quality. This would include a fair pricing system for Catskill water. This system should encourage a continued supply of high quality water as well as conservation of water in New York City.

A comprehensive strategy or management plan for the Catskills should be established. It should include a coordinated vision and address issues of economic, social and cultural concern. It should also encourage decisions that develop the economy while protecting natural and cultural resources. Diversification of the economic base of the area should be encouraged

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©2002 Glynwood Center