The Shawangunk Ridge is a national treasure, designated as "One of Earth's Last Great Places" by The Nature Conservancy. Now the crucial segment that connects Minnewaska state lands to the north with Sam's Point Preserve to the south is threatened by proposed development. Because it remains undeveloped, this majestic ridge supports a diversity of rare plants and animals, and is the central feature of Ulster County's tourist economy. Its view shed stretches for hundreds of square miles. Exploitation of its fragile terrain would irreversibly destroy a precious natural resource.