Maura Rapkin has only been a Hudson Valley resident for two years, but she’s quickly come to appreciate its history, its beauty and its soil. Her garden is one of her favorite places. We’re pleased Sloan Gorge is also one of her favorite places and that she takes time to help us preserve it as a WLC Land Steward.

“I am mesmerized by the dappled light and broken bluestone piles,” Maura said. “I am delighted by the unexpected inclines above the gorge and declines below water level. I am always a little terrified and excited to go into the cave.”

Having studied geology in college, Maura said her adoration for Sloan Gorge was “set in stone” — a pun she simply could not resist — when she participated in a geology tour led by Dr. Robert Titus. “The history of the place is tangible,” she explained. “I now know the Hudson Valley region is a petrified delta impacted by a couple thousand year ice event. And when I visit Sloan Gorge, it’s all I think about, and it’s grand.”

We couldn’t agree more! The preserve is grand, as are our dedicated Land Stewards who care for it throughout the year. Thank you, Maura, for your shared love of one of our favorite places. We’re pleased you are our Volunteer of the Month.