The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and The Nature Conservancy today announced the acquisition of more than 689 acres in the Towns of East Otto and Otto, Cattaraugus County, to add to the East Otto State Forest. The acquisition from The Nature Conservancy preserves critical open space and establishes the forest for timber production, watershed protection, and public recreation. 

"Improving forest health is essential for safeguarding water quality, habitat, and opportunities for recreation,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “Healthy, well-managed forests are also an important tool in New York’s ongoing efforts to mitigate for and adapt to climate change. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy and thanks to funding secured by Governor Kathy Hochul, residents and visitors in northern Cattaraugus County will have the opportunity to see first-hand the development of a healthy and sustainably managed forest and the benefits it provides to our environment and communities." 

The Nature Conservancy’s New York Director of Lands Dirk Bryant said, "The Nature Conservancy is proud to partner with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on projects that protect water quality and provide wildlife habitat. By expanding East Otto State Forest, this project will enhance local recreation opportunities and safeguard clean drinking water. The Nature Conservancy commends Governor Hochul and members of the New York State Senate and Assembly for providing record funding through the Environmental Protection Fund to undertake projects like these that benefit people and wildlife throughout our great state.” 

The acquisition expands East Otto State Forest north of the existing property to now total 2,071 acres. The addition of forests, portions of Utley Brook, and additional access to Cattaraugus Creek will provide increased recreational opportunities for the public, expand wildlife habitat, support ecosystem health, and conserve natural resources. Immediate plans for the property are to post and sign boundaries and conduct a full property assessment with emphasis on important species that are part of the Zoar Valley ecosystem. 

DEC acquired the property for $2.39 million from The Nature Conservancy through the New York State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). Governor Hochul’s 2026–27 Executive Budget proposes a record $425 million for the EPF, a critical resource for environmental programs such as land acquisition, farmland protection, invasive species prevention and eradication, recreation access, water quality improvement, and environmental justice projects. The EPF also supports New York’s 30x30 initiative, which commits to conserving 30% of lands and waters by 2030. 

View the updated map and information on the “East Otto State Forest” webpage and DECinfo Locator. 

For more information on DEC's state forests, visit the DEC website. New Yorkers are encouraged to Love Our New York Lands at East Otto State Forest and all natural spaces to be safe, respectful, and responsible and practicing Leave No Trace™ principles.