Who is Jeff Senterman?

Jeff Senterman is the Executive Director of the Catskill Center, where he leads conservation, land stewardship, and community engagement efforts across the Catskill Mountains region. His leadership has been central to advancing Catskills land conservation and sustainable recreation.

What is the Platte Clove Preserve?

The Platte Clove Preserve is a 208-acre protected area in the Catskill Mountains managed by the Catskill Center. Known for its waterfalls, cliffs, and rare old-growth forest, it plays a vital role in regional land conservation while providing public hiking access and environmental education.

What conservation wins does Jeff highlight in the podcast?

Jeff highlights several Catskill conservation wins, including securing additional forestland for permanent protection, expanding access at the Platte Clove Preserve, and building partnerships that strengthen habitat protection and sustainable recreation throughout the Catskill Mountains.

Where can I listen to this Kaatscast episode?

The Kaatscast episode featuring Jeff Senterman can be heard on the Kaatscast website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and directly through the Hiker Trash Husbands blog page. Search for 'Kaatscast Catskill Center Platte Clove Preserve' to find it on your favorite platform.

Aug 27

Aug 27 Listen to Jeff on Kaatscast talk about his work at the Catskill Center and recent land conservation wins

The Hiker Trash Husbands

Interviews & Podcasts, New York, The Catskills

Jeff on Kaatscast: Platte Clove Preserve & Catskill Center Wins

Join Jeff at his day job as the Executive Director of the Catskill Center, on the Kaatscast podcast as he shares insights into the Platte Clove Preserve and the Catskill Center’s recent land conservation successes in the Catskills. In this episode, Jeff reflects on more than a decade of work protecting the Catskills, from preserving critical habitats to opening new opportunities for recreation and stewardship.

The Catskill Center has been at the forefront of protecting and enhancing the natural, cultural, and recreational resources of the Catskills since 1969. One of its crown jewels is the Platte Clove Preserve, a rugged landscape of waterfalls, cliffs, and old-growth forests that provides vital habitat for wildlife while welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Under Jeff’s leadership, the Center has secured key conservation wins, expanding access and safeguarding land that might otherwise be lost to development.

Some of the highlights in this episode include:

Permanent protection of land in the Catskills, ensuring wildlife corridors remain intact.
Expansion of the Platte Clove Preserve, offering more opportunities for hikers, birders, and nature lovers to explore responsibly.
Partnerships with New York State and local organizations to secure funding and resources for long-term land stewardship.
Trail and access improvements that balance recreation with protecting fragile habitats.
Community engagement efforts, inviting residents and visitors alike to become active stewards of the Catskills.

This conversation on Kaatscast highlights both the challenges and triumphs of conservation in the region—and why the Catskills matter to communities near and far.