December 2025 Newsletter

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MONTHLY VISITORS

Over the past year, there were over 1000 sign-ins by visitors to the New Land Trust, not including the many Poobah attendees. Poobah 2025 was a great success! It was held again this year at Pie in the Sky across the road from the NLT trails. Ursa and the Major Key organized seven fantastic musical acts, who presented from the newly-expanded stage. This year saw the debut of artisan vendors, who offered some lovely handicrafts and art pieces. The food was delicious and festivities continued into the night of perfect weather, with several groups of campers staying until morning. Thank you so much to all, and we look forward to doing it again next year!

OUR CULTURAL HISTORY

T he New Land Trust Board of Directors would like to acknowledge that the 281.5 acres that we call the The New Land Trust today are the ancestral lands and original territory of the Algonquin and Iroquois Native Peoples who lived here and traveled through here, for thousands of years. As you set out on trails at the NLT, remember the many different footprints that have graced this beautiful place we call the Adirondacks: Indigenous nations that have lived here for thousands of years; Enslaved persons who passed through in search of freedoms and those who stayed; Individuals from many parts of the world who came to labor and make their fortunes; The many who have come to experience and protect its natural beauty.  Please keep this diverse history and show respect for all as you add your story to this rich, unfolding history. There are two cultural centers located close to The New Land Trust, where the past and present culture and practices of native communities can be further explored. Indigenous wisdom and guidance can help us navigate our relationships today, our relationships with each other as humans and with the web of life on earth. The two centers are: Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center (6NICC): https://www.6nicc.com/history.html Akwesasne Cultural Center (museum and library): https://akwesasneculturalcenter.org/ The NLT is grateful to the Town of Keene for sharing wording from their signage with us.

HISTORICAL MARKERS

T he frames and signs went up in October! This project was two years in the making and it feels good to be completed. Thanks to everyone who helped. Jeff and Mary Cochran for having the vision and helping with every facet of the project, including designing and donating the signs. Eve Petrashune for invaluable design work. Eric VanNostrand for his time and for bringing his tractor with auger to dig the post holes and save everyone’s backs. Paul Herbold for transporting the signs and helping with the installation. Hal Moore for sign construction and help with installation. If we missed anyone, we thank you too. Come up and enjoy the beautiful signs as you hike or ski the land. Also many thanks to Paul Herbold for continuing maintenance and especially for repairs to several trail bridges.

DONATIONS PLEASE

We know that being outdoors in nature is one of the healthiest things we can do. Your donations make access to experiences in nature possible for our many visitors. Continuing improvements include trail upgrades, signage, and the next big project, a new roof for the barn. Paul has been working to stabilize the barn so that the work can begin next spring. Our operating costs make it possible to offer NLT trails, parking, and the Clubhouse to the public and include plowing, insurance, and repairs. Donations can be made using the “Donate” button at thenewlandtrust. org and by mail to PO Box 101, Saranac, NY 12981. Donations of any size are greatly appreciated. We are so grateful for your financial support! *We’d love to have more snowshoes and XC-ski boots to loan to visitors. Please contact Hal (518) 570-5375 to make equipment donation arrangements.

BOARD OPPORTUNITIES

Do you share the vision of expanding opportunities for outdoor experiences at the New Land Trust? The New Land Trust board of directors is looking to find people interested in volunteering to serve on the board. If you want to be involved in shepherding NLT into the next generation, please message us on facebook, or call or text Hal at 518-570-5375.

DEC WINTER HIKING ESSENTIALS

• Day pack

• Water and high energy snacks

• First aid kit

• Trail map and compass/GPS

• Extra clothing, including extra hat, socks and mittens

• Plastic whistle

• Microspikes or crampons for icy conditions

• Flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries

• Stay safe out there!

NEW LAND TRUST CHILI FEST

Ski and snowshoe on the trails. Meet at the Clubhouse at noon for chili and treats. Bring finger food to share. Time to play, exercise and socialize.