OUR NATURE SANCTUARY 
ABOUT OUR NATURE SANCTUARY
OUR MISSION
To preserve and restore natural habitat and to promote native biodiversity using only ethical, humane, and organic methods.
To reestablish native plants and herbs especially, but not limited to, those that are considered to be uncommon or at risk of extinction.
To restore the amazing natural diversity that once existed in the
northeastern hardwood forests.
To create and maintain habitat for wildlife, especially for native animals considered to be "threatened" or "endangered".
To educate the public on the importance of maintaining and protecting natural ecosystems.
To provide a working example of a nature sanctuary that utilizes only ethical, humane, and organic management techniques.
WHAT DOES ETHICAL SANCTUARY MANAGEMENT MEAN?
Poisons or other lethal means are never used to control "nuisance wildlife" or invasive non-native plants. Instead, alternative and organic methods are employed to protect new plantings. 
Hunting, trapping, and fishing are never allowed on sanctuary grounds. The sanctuary is patrolled year-round to assure compliance.
Field mowing or heavy-work of any kind is suspended in the event that such activities may conflict with the breeding and nesting activities of sanctuary animals.
Use of any motorized equipment on sanctuary grounds is strictly limited. All flora and fauna is treated with respect and will not be subject to any form of "harvest".
PLEASE CONSIDER BECOMING A FRIEND OF SPRING FARM CARES' NATURE SANCTUARY
Your tax-deductible donations are welcomed and will go directly to the 
good work of habitat restoration and preservation. If you wish, you may sponsor the reestablishment of a specific "at risk" plant or the construction of nest boxes for birds like the American Kestrel or Woodduck. See our Adopt A Tree Page for more information on how you can help.
BEAVERS AND WETLAND CONSERVATION
Below is an 8 minute excerpt from a video presentation, Co-Existing with Beavers, produced by Beavers: Wetlands and Wildlife and Spring Farm CARES. This video footage is shot by our Conservation Director, Matt Perry and gives an introduction to the importance of beavers and their role in maintaining our crucial wetlands. The complete DVD is available for purchase through our online store.
Peregrine Falcon's Nest on M&T Bank, Utica, NY -- Update - July 11, 2008
Peregrine Falcons' Nest Discovered on M&T Bank, Utica, NY
by Spring Farm CARES Conservation Director, Matt Perry
Watch a 4 minute video of this endangered bird on our Nature Sanctuary page.
Spring Farm CARES thanks M&T bank for allowing these magnificent birds to safely raise their young right here in downtown Utica.
