A prehistoric cave in Orange County that features artifacts from the Ice Age is now the focus of a potential land deal that would sell nearby property to a quarry.

The cave, known as the Dutchess Quarry Cave, is hidden behind thick brush about 20 minutes off Quarry Road in Goshen. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Officials say archaeologists found prehistoric hunting tools within the cave dating back to 12,000 B.C. The Ice Age remnants are the focus of a possible land deal between Orange County, who owns the property, and quarry operations nearby, currently leased by Tilcon.

Orange County Executive Steve Newhaus says a proposal to sell the land for continued mining use is being considered, with a built-in buffer zone to protect the cave.

Officials say more than 4 million tons of material could be mined on the property surrounding the cave, valuing it at around $500,000.