Flowing from the Helderberg Escarpment, the Bozen Kill is little known beyond Altamont and the Hilltowns. The stream originates from wetlands in Schenectady County and Duane Lake near Delanson and builds as it heads off the mountain. After passing through the Nature Conservancy’s Christman Preserve, the stream flows through the largely inaccessible Bozen Kill ravine before passing Altamont, eventually entering the Watervliet Resevoir, the primary drinking water source for Watervliet and much of Guilderland. MHLC has long considered the Bozen Kill a protection priority and we are very excited to announce these acquisition projects along the stream.

Dr. Milford Becker cherished his family property on the Bozen Kill just outside of the Village of Altamont and always hoped the land would one day be preserved. Today, the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy (MHLC) is pleased to announce that Dr. Becker’s hope is now a reality. The Conservancy acquired the 156 acre Becker property along with a neighboring 27 acres. These parcels along, with property acquired from Albany County several years ago, create the new 214 acre Bozen Kill Preserve.

A partnership between the Open Space Institute (OSI), the Nature Conservancy (TNC), and the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy made this conservation project possible.

Directions:

From the intersection of the Northway and Rt US 20, Western Avenue: Drive West, approximately eight miles and turn left onto Route 146 toward Altamont. Route 146 turns right in the middle of Altamont onto Maple Ave. Take that turn onto Maple. Route 146 then turns left at the end of a long block; however, you should keep going straight; as you leave Altamont you will find that you are on the Bozenkill Road. After approximately one half mile turn right onto Westfall Road. After crossing the Bozen Kill look for the Preserve on the left. (less than 1/4 mile from Westfall Rd.)