PLYMOUTH — Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the acquisition of more than 190 acres in the Chenango County Town of Plymouth to Pharsalia Woods State Forest.

The acquisition permanently conserves Round Pond and surrounding wetlands and grows the forest to 9,469 total acres.

“DEC prioritizes land acquisition as a critical strategy to protect New York State’s ecological assets and wildlife populations while helping to achieve our climate goals,” said DEC Commissioner Sean Mahar.

Mahar noted the efforts to protect Pharsalia Woods State Forest will help draw more visitors to the region and offer year-round recreational opportunities from hiking, biking, snowmobiling, skiing, bird watching and more.

Chenango Bird Club Secretary Mike DeWispeleare explained Round Pond wetland complex is a very special place for area birders and said it is the first location in the area harboring a breeding pair of Sandhill Cranes, a northern and western species that is slowly expanding its breeding range into New York State.

“These large birds, with a wingspan over six feet, are a thrill to watch as they perform their courtship dancing display and sound off with their unique primeval calls,” said DeWispeleare.

“Pharsalia Woods is also an important breeding area for rare American Goshawk, an apex avian predator in large, forested areas,” he added.