Podcast Episode: “Preserving Nassau: Six New Preserves and the Power of Community”

Podcast ​Guest: Dave Fleming, Town Supervisor for Town of Nassau, NY

Description: Celebrate a remarkable conservation milestone: the establishment of over six new nature preserves in the Town of Nassau, New York

​Dave Fleming reviews the “Nassau Recipe for Success,” a model of local conservation that proves what’s possible when community buy-in meets grassroots action. We explore how these projects transition from  visions into reality through the dedicated use of volunteer labor and community input during the planning, building, and maintenance phases. ​Beyond the trails, we celebrate the rich history and rugged beauty of Rensselaer County. Whether you’re interested in  land conservation or looking for hiking spot, this episode offers a masterclass in protecting the landscapes. Join us for a dive into the natural treasures of Nassau, NY and the collaborative spirit that keeps Rensselaer County thriving.

​Here are the six key nature preserves and protected areas in Nassau, NY, which offer roughly 500 acres of public access:

​1. Mud Pond Preserve
​Location: 591 Central Nassau Road (CR 16), Nassau, NY
​Trail Length: ~1.1 Miles (Loop and Overlook trails)
​Highlight: A rare peat bog and bird-watching overlook.

​2. Woods at Burden Lake
​Location: Burden Lake Road (near 2nd Dyke Rd), Nassau, NY
​Trail Length: ~1.5 Miles
​Highlight: Watershed protection and community-built trails near the lake.

​3. Kinderhook Creek Preserve
​Location: Martha Hicks Road (off Tsatsawassa Lake Rd), East Nassau, NY
​Trail Length: ~5.0 Miles (Extensive trail network)
​Highlight: Half a mile of trout stream frontage and diverse forest types.

​4. Stewart Preserve
​Location: Stewart Lane, Nassau/Sand Lake Border
​Trail Length: ~1.5 Miles
​Highlight: Massive ancient oaks and stone walls

5. Pine Swamp Preserve
​Location: Smith Pond Road, Nassau, NY
​Trail Length: ~0.75 Miles
​Highlight: Critical wetland habitat perfect for specialized bird watching.

​6. Albert Family Forest Preserve
​Location: Cold Water Tavern Road, Nassau, NY
​Trail Length: ~1.0 Mile
​Highlight: Rugged terrain