One brake on Putnam's development has been the stringent regulations adopted by the City of New York to protect the watershed of its reservoir system. More than half of the county is affected by these rules. These regulations, as well as the enormous expansion of the state park system in the county, have saved open space for the county and helped to preserve its spectacular natural beauty. Our forests and lakes enhance the quality of life for county residents and bring in eco-tourists. The preservation of historic sites and the revitalization of charming main streets also attract visitors.
Special events stimulate tourism, now an important component of economic development.
The Great Swamp, Patterson Today, Putnam County has managed to strike a balance between change and preservation and between development and conservation. It will be the challenge of the 21st century to continue on that difficult path. Please consult your hardware or software owner's manual for more information.