Environmental Studies Program

The Nature Preserve

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The land that is currently the Nature Preserve was bought in 1964 for the purpose of future campus development. Plans were created in 1968 to develop athletic fields and a field house and during Thanksgiving week of 1969, the development of the land began. Protests by students and faculty quickly led to the cancellation of the project and in its place the campus Nature Preserve was established. Today, the Nature Preserve is 192 acres, and when combined with adjacent natural areas and other undeveloped lands gives over 500 acres available for enjoyment, education and research.

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The Nature Preserve

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The land contained within the Nature Preserve has been allowed to evolve naturally. A pond was formed by pipeline construction in the mid-to-late 1960's, and as a result a red maple swamp was formed and the existing wetland enlarged. The arrival of beavers in the mid 1980's greatly enlarged and altered the wetland.
As of late 2003 the beavers were still present.

The Nature Preserve now serves as host to many birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Approximately 75 bird species are known to regularly nest in the preserve and over 200 species have been seen.

    Overall, the nature preserve is home to an amazing array of species and is a beautiful area for study and recreation. Its setting, as part of the campus directly adjacent to the developed portion, makes it a welcome sight for students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community.

A substantial trail system of about 10 miles makes much of the preserve accessable and the boardwalk traversing the wetland is a unique attribute. The Nature Preserve is used extensively in environmental teaching and research.
Photos of the Nature Preserve provided by Jonathan Hasse.

 

For a brochure with a map of the Nature Preserve please send a request to:
randrus@binghamton.edu

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Last modified on 10.21.02 (adh)