Olean Star

YORKSHIRE — Cattaraugus County has a newly-designated state forest in the town of Yorkshire with access to Cattaraugus Creek.

Sean Mahar, the interim director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, on Tuesday announced the creation of Blue Hill State Forest on 1,200 acres of property formerly the Bluemont Ski Resort which closed in 1979.

It is the first state forest added to Western New York since 1963. It is designed to preserve critical open space and establishes the forest for watershed protection, timber production, and public recreation. 

“Improving forest health is essential for safeguarding water quality, habitat, and opportunities for recreation and healthy, well-managed forests are also an important tool in New York’s ongoing efforts to mitigate for and adapt to climate change,” Mahar said.

 “Thanks to the dedication of DEC’s conservation partners, this historic acquisition will allow residents and visitors in northern Cattaraugus County the opportunity to see first-hand the development of a healthy and sustainably managed forest and the benefits it provides to our environment and communities,” Mahar said.

The property contains forests, ponds, fields, and access to Cattaraugus Creek. DEC’s acquisition will provide increased recreational opportunities for the public, expand wildlife habitat, support ecosystem health, and conserve natural resources.

Blue Hill State Forest will be managed under DEC’s Cattaraugus Unit Management Plan. Immediate plans for the property are to post and sign the boundaries, remove the old ski resort buildings, and conduct a full property assessment.

DEC acquired the property for $2.1 million from landowner Kingbrook Funding, LLC, through the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). 

Maps and additional information about Blue Hill State Forest can be found on DECinfo Locator.