In 1876 the City of Rochester began drawing water from a small, western Finger Lake to provide citizens with a clean, reliable source of public water. The City became determined to protect this valuable water resource. A property acquisition program began around the lake. Cottages, hotels, and farms were purchased and removed during the first half of the 20th century. The newly acquired lands were planted, or naturally seeded, to forest and wetlands. Other Finger Lakes continued to be developed and provide for more intensive usage, while this lake reverted to an earlier, more natural habitat.
The remote setting that now provided high quality water also offered a protected environment. This environment was of such merit that while the rest of New York State experienced a total loss of nesting Bald Eagles, Rochester watershed property, at ~1970, provided the only active nest site for this magnificent bird. In 1976 the City entered an Agreement with NYS that established a wildlife sanctuary "in order to protect these endangered birds."
After many years the Bald Eagle finally started to make a significant population
increase. The City is confident that its land acquisition and stewardship was
instrumental in helping to prevent the total loss of this eagle from NYS. The
City feels an honest pride and satisfaction knowing that their efforts, intended
first to protect public water, have accomplished that plus so much more. After
being involved for decades in protection of the Bald Eagle, the City is very
pleased to be a Partner in Newyorkwild.org.