The Hemlock Ridge Property - Unique Natural Resources and a Critical Open Space Link

The Hemlock Ridge Property is one of the largest contiguous undeveloped tracts remaining in the Blairstown area. The Property contains unique geologic features associated with the limestone bedrock that underlies it, including bedrock pinnacles, escarpments, sinkholes, waterfalls and mature hemlock and other hardwood forests. The tract is within 1000 feet of two preserved farms on the southern side of the property across Route 94. The northern portion of the property is within 2000 feet of Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) property, which is contiguous with the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Worthington State Park. The site also contains what appears to be an historic furnace believed to be an iron furnace and a large limekiln.

The Hemlock Ridge Property is part of Ridge & Valley Conservancy's Limestone Forest Project Area. It is underlain by Kittatinny Limestone, an important aquifer in the Paulins Kill valley. Because of its unique chemistry and hydrology, the limestone supports a community of rare plants, amphibians and reptiles. One of the Conservancy's primary goals is to protect high-quality headwater streams in the Valley and Ridge region by precluding development through conservation easements and fee-simple purchases. This strategy assures maintenance of forested cover, prevents the introduction of development-related pollution sources, and provides for sustainable agricultural practices that protect water quality. The Hemlock Ridge project would protect a very large wooded area, provide a wildlife sanctuary, allow for passive recreation, perhaps establish a historical iron furnace, help maintain overall water quality and establish buffers for previously preserved parkland and farmland.

The owners have historically permitted scout camping in the northern section of the property. Coupled with this camping area, Ridge & Valley Conservancy intends to establish and maintain a hiking trail through the most scenic portions of the property.

The 150-acre Hemlock Ridge Property will be owned and managed by the Ridge and Valley Conservancy. Public use will consist of camping and hiking and other passive recreation. A trailhead will be established and a hiking trail will be located and blazed, enabling the public to hike, snowshoe, or ski the property during daylight hours.

Hemlock Ridge has significant conservation value as a mature, diverse deciduous forest and deciduous wooded wetland, one of the premier stands of Hemlock in the region, and a spectacular gladed ravine. If RVC purchases the property they will retain stewardship responsibility.

The $1,300,000 needed to preserve the Hemlock Ridge has been raised from state grants, Blairstown Township, the Warren County Open Space Trust Fund, and municipal open space trust funds provided by Blairstown Township.  This spectacular property is now permanently preserved.