"Catt. Co. To Created Wildlife Sanctuary" from the
Saturday, September 16th, 2000 issue of The Post-Journal
By Sharon Turano
NAPOLI – The Cattaraugus Local Development Corp. has begun the process of placing a large portion of the former Enchanted Lake Development into a federal Wetland Reserve Program.
About 600 acres of wetlands and habitat will be designated "forever wild," creating a wildlife sanctuary to protect animals and promote public enjoyment.
The land will be available to schools, colleges, nature groups and wildlife agencies.
Rick White, director of the Pfeiffer Nature Center in Portville, will work with the Local Development Corp. and biologists, conservationist and technical personnel to determine wetland boundaries and habitat.
He will also take an inventory of animal and plant life species.
"I expect that we will identify over 200 varieties of birds by the time my inventory is complete," White said. "this past week we observed both an osprey and bald eagle on the site."
In the last weeks, federal biologist saw two varieties of endangered orchids at the site.
Two black bear cubs have also been spotted in the area during recent weeks.
A USDA biologist expressed enthusiasm for the geographic size of the wetland project and for the variety of species occupying the land.
A management plan is being developed by White under which timber reserves and wildlife can be managed.
A design for paths and observation points is also being developed.
"We feel extremely fortunate to have someone with the talents and knowledge of Rick White representing our interests and working with the Department of Agriculture," said Rick LeFeber, CLDC executive director.
LeFeber said the construction of a lodge that will act as a gateway and information center is also being considered.
On the other side of the wetland, permits are being obtained for the building of six residential homes.
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