ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) has purchased nearly 1,000 acres in Steuben County for conservation.

The 992-acre property is just southwest of Corning in the Towns of Erwin and Lindley and features a mile of frontage along the Canisteo River. It’s the largest project in the Ithaca-based FLLT’s 35-year history. It contains forested hillsides, multiple streams and meadows, and miles of existing trails. It’s part of an area designated as a Habitat Linkage Zone by the New York Natural Heritage Program.

“This was a truly exceptional opportunity,” said FLLT Executive Director Andy Zepp. “Our projects regularly involve working with multiple landowners to conserve the landscapes of the Finger Lakes. This single acquisition is large enough to provide an immediate positive impact for multiple wildlife species while also providing local residents with room to roam.”

Home to black bears and bald eagles, the property dubbed ‘Bad Bear Hill’ will be added to the adjacent McCarthy Hill State Forest, which will more than double in size.

FLLT says the property will likely open for daytime public use sometime this spring.