Cooperstown philanthropist Jane Forbes Clark was presented with a 2006 Parks and Preservation Award for her efforts to preserve New York's historic and natural resources by Gov. George Pataki during a ceremony in New York City Thursday.

The annual award honors individuals, families or organizations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment and generosity to state's parks and historic sites.

"Over the last twelve years, this award program has honored New Yorkers who have made lasting and significant contributions to safeguarding the unique natural heritage and precious historic resources of the Empire State," Governor Pataki said. "This year's recipients continue the tradition of excellence and further a legacy of stewardship that will improve the quality of life for our communities and inspire future generations of leaders.

"Jane Forbes Clark has played an exceptionally important role in preserving and improving the scenic, historic and cultural resources of Cooperstown and the Otsego Lake area, helping to enhance the quality and character of life throughout the region," the governor said.

As president of the Clark Foundation and through her affiliations with several other organizations, Clark has provided support to many important community landmarks and initiatives in the Otsego Lake area, including the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the Farmers' Museum, and the New York State Historical Association and Fenimore Art Museum. She has also assisted community benefit and education efforts, such as the Cooperstown Beautification Program and local scholarship programs. In connection with the Leatherstocking Corporation, Clark has overseen the restoration of the Otesaga Hotel, one of New York’s premier historic resorts and a mainstay of the area’s heritage tourism industry.