Supporting the locals

Many couples are opting to make a donation to their favorite charity in lieu of a traditional favor. There are a number of influential conservation organizations in the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Most (if not all) accept donations to assist in their effort of preserving green space, restoring habitat for wildlife, and conserving our precious natural resources.

(c) Chris Ramirez for the New York Times

If you are interested in making a donation in place of a favor, here are a few great organizations that are doing their part in the Hudson Valley and Catskill regions:

The Nature Conservancy 
Visit TNC's website to learn about what the organization is doing to protect habitat in Eastern New York. http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/newyork/placesweprotect/easternnewyork/index.htm

The Catskill Mountainkeeper
Working to preserve the long term health of the Catskill Mountains.
http://www.catskillmountainkeeper.org/

Riverkeeper
New York's clean water advocate, working extensively in the Hudson River.
http://www.riverkeeper.org/

Scenic Hudson
Protecting green space in the Valley.
http://www.scenichudson.org/

Friends of the Shawangunks
The Shawangunks, affectionately known to locals and rock climbers alike as "The 'Gunks", offers up truly majestic views of the Hudson Valley, some of the best climbing in the world, and is home to incredible flora and fauna. Friends of the Shawangunks is working to protect the 'Gunks and preserve its beauty.
http://shawangunks.org/

New York State Barn Coalition
Having your event in a barn? Consider donating to the New York State Barn Coalition to help preserve NY's rural heritage.
http://www.barncoalition.com/index.html



Most counties have a land trust or conservancy organization. Here are just a few:


Dutchess County Land Conservancy 

(c) The Sold Abode

http://www.dutchessland.org/


Hudson Highlands Land Trust
http://www.hhlt.org/

Orange County Land Trust
http://www.oclt.org/


Putnam County Land Trust
http://www.pclt.net/

Westchester Land Trust
http://www.westchesterlandtrust.org/

Supporting local conservation organizations is one of the most eco-friendly things you can do. These organizations typically operate on a small budget so any amount donated is sure to help!

Happy Planning, 

Lizzie