This week we welcomed our 2025 Seasonal Ranger Rachel Colchete! Ranger Rachel will spend the next six months at the Preserve, acting as an important resource for visitors on our trails and in our Visitors' Center while ensuring protection of the Huyck Preserve’s natural and cultural resources. Rachel is excited to serve as the Preserve's second Seasonal Ranger, after recently completing a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Management at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF). Meet Rachel at an upcoming event (https://www.huyckpreserve.org/events.html), at our Visitors’ Center on weekends, or on the trails! The Seasonal Ranger position is supported in part by a Professional Development Grant from the New York State Conservation Partnership Program (NYSCPP) and New York's Environmental Protection Fund. The NYSCPP is administered by the Land Trust Alliance, in coordination with the state Department of Environmental Conservation. (fb)

We find lichens growing on tree bark, rocks, or even human-created objects outside. But, what are lichens really? According to New York State Botanist James Lendemer, Ph.D., lichens are beautiful collaborative symbiotic organisms who knit our forests together unlike anything else in nature. They can survive deserts and the vacuum of space but cannot withstand most human disturbance. As vital environmental indicators, lichens tell us how things have changed and how things are changing. If you want to know more about lichens, including those living at the Preserve, join us for our Annual Membership Meeting featuring Dr. Lendemer. All are welcome for this summer kick-off lecture, and Huyck Preserve members will be able to vote for our board of directors during the meeting. To learn more and register, visit https://www.huyckpreserve.org/events.html (fb)