Ann Lee Pond

Ann Lee Pond Nature and Historic Preserve is a 180-acre urban oasis located near Albany County International Airport in New York. The preserve features a large pond, wetlands, forest, and meadows, offering visitors a diverse natural environment to explore.

The centerpiece of the preserve is Ann Lee Pond, a shallow body of water spanning 10.6 acres with a shoreline length of 0.9 miles. The pond has a maximum depth of 4 feet and an average depth of 2 feet, making it an ideal habitat for various aquatic plants and animals.

Visitors can explore the preserve via a network of trails, including a 2.3-mile moderately trafficked loop trail. The preserve offers both blue and red-marked trails, as well as an interpretive wetland walk. A boardwalk bridge crosses part of the pond, allowing visitors to observe the aquatic ecosystem up close.

The preserve is named after Ann Lee, the founder of the 18th-century Shaker religious community. As such, it holds both natural and historical significance. The area is part of the Watervliet Shaker National Historic District, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about local Shaker history.

Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find the preserve particularly appealing. The pond and surrounding habitats support a variety of fish species, including common carp, golden shiner, yellow bullhead, pumpkinseed, bluegill, largemouth bass, and various types of crappie and perch. The diverse environment also attracts numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.