Buffer would add creek protection

The Times Union reports that the Port of Albany is set to expand by purchasing 81 acres of land on the Hudson in Bethlehem (“Port sees great potential for Bethlehem land,” Nov. 22). I’m sure everyone applauds the port’s success, but I’m concerned the land includes the mouth of the Normans Kill.

Since most of the streams in Albany have been covered or converted into sewers, the Normans Kill presents a rare conservation opportunity. Riparian wetlands are among the most important habitat areas in the ecosystem. Having lost access to most upland water bodies the Normans Kill also offers rare opportunities for human access to nature in the urban areas. Just upstream is a spectacular canyon running under Route 9W, also with limited access through to the river.

State Department of Environmental Conservation regulations call for 100-foot setback from wetland edges, although these are generally not applied to stream banks. Nonetheless, such a buffer would create a highvalue corridor for both wildlife and people.

This is a rare opportunity for Albany to secure an environmental amenity for people and wildlife. I hope city leaders, Port management and citizens get involved in joint discussions on how both economic and quality-of-life needs could be addressed here.

Barry Pendergrass Albany