Where in the Valley is Reed Sparling? (September 2008)

And the ANSWER IS...

Our congratulations to Fran Platt of New Paltz for being the first to respond to last month's "Where in the Valley is Reed Sparling" contest. Fran recognized Reed as being at Shaupeneak Ridge (Ulster County).

Beaver aren't the only critters that call Shaupeneak Ridge home: The 570-acre preserve also abounds with deer, foxes, coyotes and wild turkeys, to name just a few species. In addition to wildlife-spotting opportunities, folks come to Shaupeneak to enjoy the land's rugged, diverse beauty. Whether you're interested in a strenuous hike or a sweat-free stroll, you're bound to see something that sets your heart racing, whether it's a waterfall, a panoramic Catskills vista or a close-up glimpse of one of the beaver's condos on Louisa Pond.

P.S. We need your help!

A history of the Town of Esopus (where the preserve lies) states that "Shaupeneak" is a corruption of the Lenape word Shopawannic or Shopawannes. But nowhere can we find what this means. If you know, please e-mail me at rsparling@scenichudson.org.

Congratulations to Fran Platt of New Paltz for being the first to respond with the correct answer. She won an autographed copy of Reed Sparling's Hudson Valley Voyage: Through the Seasons, Through the Years. Try your luck with our September challenge!