An Ithaca-based organization has secured a unique conservation agreement on land in Cayuga County.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust announced the arrangement for 86 acres of Skaneateles Lake watershed property in Niles. This includes an area near Bear Swamp Creek with nearly 3,000 feet of frontage.

The conservation agreement marks a shift in focus to maintain that creek area.

Jack and Janet Lowe of Ithaca agreed to a legal arrangement that allows them to own and continue to manage the land, but the couple is limited in developing or building structures on the property. The contract aims to maintain the natural features of the property located just outside of New Hope. The site includes fields, woodlands and extensive wetlands.

The nonprofit organization has also acquired land in the area over the years, trust Executive Director Andrew Zepp said.

"The Bear Swamp Creek corridor has been a priority," he said.

The arrangement will help maintain high water quality for Skaneateles Lake. The creek is one of the largest tributaries of the lake, Zepp added. Besides water quality, the conservation effort will assist the ecosystem to maintain the natural features and habitats.

For more details, read Thursday's edition of The Citizen.