Closed in 1992, the Trenton Greenbelt is 2,000 acres of relatively undeveloped land east of Holland Patent and southwest of Barneveld, NY. It is a combination of public and private lands which are being protected from development pressures by a variety of conservation easements. The area's forests and farmland contribute not only to the local economy, but add to the quality of life for town residents by providing open space, recreation, and a home for abundant wildlife. Numerous springs in the Greenbelt join to feed tributaries of Ninemile Creek, making it an important water resource. Open sand plain areas scattered throughout the Greenbelt create a fragile and unique habitat for both flora and fauna.
The Trail System
The cross-country ski and hiking trails of the Trenton Greenbelt are an effort to provide free recreational and environmental opportunities close to home. They are the result of the generosity of private landowners willing to share the beauty of their property, much hard word by a dedicated group of citizen volunteers, invaluable support from the Town of Trenton, and the financial support of area residents, the Iroquois Pipeline's Land Enhancement and Preservation Fund, and the Helen Ney Best Fund of the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Inc. The Greenbelt's current 2.5 miles of trails officially opened in January 1995. They travel through a variety of unique habitats, including open sand plains, pine plantations, and deciduous forests. A variety of trails traversing gradual and more challenging hills offer a sense of deep woods solitude with occasional open scenic vistas. All trails are clearly marked. They begin and end at a parking area along Wood Road, west of the Mapledale commercial area along Route 12.
The Agreements
Landowners involved in the Greenbelt project are not compensated for letting the public use the designated ski and hiking trails which cross their land. Each private landowner has placed a conservation easement on their property, protecting its natural resource and recreation values in perpetuity. Public access to the trail system has been generously granted, but is not required as a part of the easement agreements. It is important that the landowners' generosity be respected. When visiting the Greenbelt, please stay on the marked trails. Please avoid disturbing moss-covered areas of the sand plains, carry out any litter, and avoid damaging any vegetation. Camp or cooking fires are not permitted. Horseback riding and the use of motorized vehicles and mountain bikes is not permitted.
