June 23, 2000

Standoff in Torne Valley

Issue 17 was a reprint of a Journal News article entitled, "Acquiring Torne Valley", dateline Ramapo, 10/16/00 and scanned as follows:

Jack Rosenberg, trustee of the Village of Suffern and an environmental advocate seeking to save Ramapo's Torne Valley, reports that about 780 signatures have been gathered so far by him and his supporters on a petition seeking the state's acquisition of the area. That may be a long shot, given the recent state expense incurred in acquiring nearby Sterling Forest, but the idea makes great sense.

Presently, two power plans are proposed for the valley, which contains the Ramapo River and its vital well field, and many species of birds and animals. The Ramapo Town Board has rejected the proposals, as well as a quarry operation, but these votes could be overridden by Albany. Rosenberg is seeking to add the site to the nearby Harriman State Park and to protect the watershed, preserve regional air quality and the scenic view in this historic area.

This is a fight worth pursuing.


High Torne Mountain
 Jasper Francis Cropsey

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Jack would like to hear from you even if you disagree. Please be courteous though. Thank you. -Editor