Two program series set to begin this month in Newcomb and Keene offer events for sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts. The Adirondack Mountain Club’s 2013 Winter Lecture Series will take place at the High Peaks Information Center, while the Adirondack Interpretive Center (AIC), formerly the Newcomb VIC, will offer a variety of programs highlighting the role that sportsmen in the Adirondacks play in conservation and game management.

The AIC’s programs will begin on January 26, with a focus on white-tailed deer. Future AIC program topics will include trapping, and preparing, cooking and enjoying fresh game. This month’s program will be led by Jeremy Hurst, a certified wildlife biologist with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Hurst specializes in managing New York state’s big-game populations.

Hunters and trappers were among our nation’s initial preservationists, and they continue to have a strong voice and make important contributions as one of the Adirondack Park’s major stakeholder groups. Sportsmen are invited to share their stories, insights and experiences fireside in the historic Huntington Lodge trophy room. Chili, cornbread and beverages will be served. There is a $5 fee for chili and cornbread.

The ADK’s series kicks off this Saturday, January 19, with a presentation by Forest Ranger Jim Giglinto on “Basic Avalanche Awareness.” Giglinto will discuss factors influencing avalanches, the history of avalanches in the Adirondack backcountry and avalanche danger – and how to avoid it.

Additional ADK programs include musicians Annie and Jonny Rosen, of Annie and the Hedonists, will warm things up with their mix of folk, torchy blues, standards, bluegrass, gospel, early jazz and more in February 23. In March, ADK will be showing the documentary film “Four More Feet,” which tells the story of Randy Pierce, a blind hiker who takes on the challenge of hiking all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot peaks in a single winter season. Pierce; his service dog, Quinn; his human guide, Justin Fuller; and filmmaker Dina Sutin will be at the show and available for questions.

The High Peaks Information Center (HPIC) is located at ADK’s Heart Lake Property at the end of Adirondack Loj Road, just south of Lake Placid. Saturday evening programs at HPIC begin at 8 p.m. All programs are free and open to the public.

The AIC white-tailed deer event takes place in the Huntington Lodge trophy room from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, January 26. Both Huntington Lodge and the AIC facilities are located on the Newcomb campus of the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, along Route 28N. Pre-registration is required by calling 518-582-2000 or emailing at aic@esf.edu.