Upstate Parks and Rec

Upstate Parks and Rec

A new podcast dedicated to outdoor recreation and environmental conservation in Upstate NY - Hosted by T.J. Kennedy in Troy, New York.

Episodes

  1. 12/21/2025

    Upstate Parks and Rec Podcast Session with TJ Kennedy and Dave Fleming

    Podcast Episode: "Preserving Nassau: Six New Preserves and the Power of Community" Podcast ​Guest: Dave Fleming, Town Supervisor for Town of Nassau, NY Description: Celebrate a remarkable conservation milestone: the establishment of over six new nature preserves in the Town of Nassau, New York ​Dave Fleming reviews the "Nassau Recipe for Success," a model of local conservation that proves what’s possible when community buy-in meets grassroots action. We explore how these projects transition from  visions into reality through the dedicated use of volunteer labor and community input during the planning, building, and maintenance phases. ​Beyond the trails, we celebrate the rich history and rugged beauty of Rensselaer County. Whether you're interested in  land conservation or looking for hiking spot, this episode offers a masterclass in protecting the landscapes. Join us for a dive into the natural treasures of Nassau, NY and the collaborative spirit that keeps Rensselaer County thriving. ​Here are the six key nature preserves and protected areas in Nassau, NY, which offer roughly 500 acres of public access: ​1. Mud Pond Preserve ​Location: 591 Central Nassau Road (CR 16), Nassau, NY ​Trail Length: ~1.1 Miles (Loop and Overlook trails) ​Highlight: A rare peat bog and bird-watching overlook. ​2. Woods at Burden Lake ​Location: Burden Lake Road (near 2nd Dyke Rd), Nassau, NY ​Trail Length: ~1.5 Miles ​Highlight: Watershed protection and community-built trails near the lake. ​3. Kinderhook Creek Preserve ​Location: Martha Hicks Road (off Tsatsawassa Lake Rd), East Nassau, NY ​Trail Length: ~5.0 Miles (Extensive trail network) ​Highlight: Half a mile of trout stream frontage and diverse forest types. ​4. Stewart Preserve ​Location: Stewart Lane, Nassau/Sand Lake Border ​Trail Length: ~1.5 Miles ​Highlight: Massive ancient oaks and stone walls 5. Pine Swamp Preserve ​Location: Smith Pond Road, Nassau, NY ​Trail Length: ~0.75 Miles ​Highlight: Critical wetland habitat perfect for specialized bird watching. ​6. Albert Family Forest Preserve ​Location: Cold Water Tavern Road, Nassau, NY ​Trail Length: ~1.0 Mile ​Highlight: Rugged terrain

    28 min

About

A new podcast dedicated to outdoor recreation and environmental conservation in Upstate NY - Hosted by T.J. Kennedy in Troy, New York.