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Town of Stratford
Fulton County
Snowmobile Safety Education: On Dec.28, Forest Rangers Thompson and Hamm assisted the Stratford Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club and Hamilton County Snowmobile Patrol Officer Arena with the New York State Snowmobile Safety Course. Rangers instructed 28 participants at the Oppenheim Trailblazers Snowmobile Club. The course allows youth ages 14 to 17 to operate a snowmobile on lands where snowmobiling is allowed, and youth ages 10 to 13 to ride where permitted while accompanied by an adult. The course includes the basics of snowmobile operation and navigation, New York State laws and regulations, and trail preparedness. Other New York State snowmobile safety courses can be found at the NYS Parks website (leaves DEC website).
Almanack Contributor NYS DEC
Information attributed to NYSDEC is taken from press releases and news announcements from New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation.
Rangers rescue hiker on Johns Brook Trail, conduct flat ice rescue training
Outdoor Conditions (12/30): Snowshoes, microspikes, and crampons needed for Eastern High Peaks Wilderness
The following are only the most recent notices pertaining to public lands in the Adirondacks. Please check the Adirondack Backcountry webpages for a full list of notices, including seasonal road statuses, rock climbing closures, specific trail conditions, and other pertinent information
NEW THIS WEEK
High Peaks Wilderness:
- Snow Report (12/29): The following report describes conditions as of Thursday, 12/29. Changing weather may affect conditions. There is 56cm of snow at the Colden Caretaker Cabin. Conditions now require snowshoes to be worn in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness. Microspikes and crampons are needed. Ski trails have fluffy snow from recent snowfall. Avalanche Lake and Lake Colden are unsafe due to thin ice and open areas from recent flooding.
- Use caution at stream crossings. Due to recent flooding and subsequent cold temperatures, streams may have a deceptively thin covering of ice on top of deep water.
Clinton & Franklin County Snowmobile Trails: Snowmobile trail gates throughout the counties are open. Conditions will be variable.
Rangers assist emergency personnel following winter storm in St. Lawrence County
Erie, Genesee, St. Lawrence, and Sullivan Counties
Storm Response: On Dec. 24-27, Forest Rangers and Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) assisted County emergency personnel during a massive winter storm. On Dec. 24, there were more than 100 calls to Jefferson County 911 for stranded motorists. In addition to rescuing people from their cars, Rangers helped deliver cots to a warming center at the Hammond Volunteer Fire Department.
DEC Announces Third Year of Ice Fishing Creel Survey on Lake Champlain
On December 15, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the annual ice fishing creel survey will resume for its third year on the New York waters of Lake Champlain from January through March 2023.
“Anglers are important partners when it comes to the management of the Lake Champlain fishery,” said Commissioner Seggos. “By participating in programs like the ice fishing creel survey, anglers provide us with information that ultimately benefits both our environment and the future of quality fishing in New York State.”
Outdoor Conditions (12/23): Hazardous weather, icy conditions expected through Saturday
The following are only the most recent notices pertaining to public lands in the Adirondacks. Please check the Adirondack Backcountry webpages for a full list of notices, including seasonal road statuses, rock climbing closures, specific trail conditions, and other pertinent information
NEW THIS WEEK
High Peaks Wilderness Snow Report (12/21): PLEASE NOTE: The following report describes conditions as of Wednesday, 12/21. Hazardous weather conditions expected Thursday evening into Saturday will completely change conditions in the High Peaks Wilderness. Please see the special weather warning below for more information. There is 35cm of snow at the Colden Caretaker Cabin, with exposed rock and ice at higher elevations. Conditions now require snowshoes to be worn in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness. Microspikes and crampons are needed. Lake Colden and Avalanche Lake have open areas around moving water and dams – use caution on any ice.
DEC to Hold Annual ‘First Day Hikes’ throughout New York State
Celebrate the new year in the outdoors with a First Day Hike at one of the many events across the state and nation. DEC, State Parks, and the Canal Corporation invite New Yorkers to kick off 2023 by participating in one of the many hikes being held at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, trails, and public lands across the Empire State on January 1, 2023. DEC Region 6 staff will lead free family-friendly hikes in St. Lawrence and Lewis counties that will help connect with nature on the first day of the New Year.
“Getting outdoors and connecting with nature is the perfect way to start the New Year,” said Randall Young, DEC Region 6 Director. “First Day hikes across the state and in the region bring together outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities, creating opportunities to create lasting memories in the process.”
Rangers assist with dual injuries at Wright/Algonquin junction
Town of North Elba
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On Dec. 13 at 2:25 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch requested Forest Ranger assistance with a hiker who may have broken their ankle below the Wright/Algonquin junction. Due to the location, Captain Burns requested aviation assistance. High winds and safety concerns kept the New York State Police (NYSP) helicopter grounded. Thirteen Rangers and additional DEC staff and volunteers responded.
Rangers reached the 21-year-old from Saratoga Springs at 6:45 p.m., and administered first aid for the subject’s ankle and hypothermia. One hour and a half later, Rangers used a backpack litter system to begin carrying the subject down the mountain. Conditions were treacherous with steep, icy slopes.
Outdoor Conditions (12/16): Heavy snow expected through Saturday in High Peaks, trails messy & slippery
The following are only the most recent notices pertaining to public lands in the Adirondacks. Please check the Adirondack Backcountry webpages for a full list of notices, including seasonal road statuses, rock climbing closures, specific trail conditions, and other pertinent information
NEW THIS WEEK
High Peaks Wilderness Snow Report (12/15): PLEASE NOTE: The following report describes conditions as of noon on Thursday, 12/15. Heavy snow expected Thursday night through Saturday will completely change conditions in the High Peaks Wilderness. There is currently minimal snow at the Colden Caretaker Cabin. Higher summits also have minimal snow coverage. Trails in general are messy and slippery due to thin ice coverage. Microspikes are needed. Ski trails are not in good condition at this time. Lakes have thin ice and are not currently crossable.
DEC Recreation Highlights: Special Weather Warning, Region 5 Children’s Holiday Party Postponed to Dec. 19
Winter Storm Warnings are in effect throughout the Adirondack region from Thursday afternoon, Dec. 15 through Saturday, Dec. 17. Heavy snow is expected, with accumulations of up to 18 inches or more in some areas. Travel will be difficult, road conditions may be hazardous, and power outages are possible.
DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff and regional staff are on alert, monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure impacted by severe weather. DEC is coordinating resource deployment with agency partners and all available assets are positioned to assist with any emergency response.
DEC advises backcountry users to be aware of and prepared for winter conditions. Winter hiking and skiing safety and preparedness are extremely important no matter your physical ability or destination. Properly preparing for winter conditions is essential for a safe, enjoyable experience. Check the Hike Smart NY 10 Essentials for a baseline packing list and review winter hiking safety.
DEC’s Intent to Restrict Certain Neonicotinoid Pesticide Products
DEC announced plans to reclassify certain neonicotinoid (neonic) pesticide products as “Restricted Use” effective January 1, 2023.
Every pesticide product used, distributed, sold, or offered for sale in New York must be registered by DEC. Mainly, pesticides are classified as either general or restricted use pesticides. Restricted use pesticides can only be used by a private or commercial certified applicator possessing NYS issued certification.
Missing man found deceased; child freed from car following accident
Town of Caroga
Fulton County
Illegal Excavator Use: On Dec. 7, Environmental Conservation Police Officer (ECO) Manns alerted Forest Rangers of an unauthorized vehicle in Shaker Mountain Wild Forest at Pine Lake. Upon investigation, Rangers Geyer and Nally found excavator tracks going around a closed gate at the Pine Lake Boat Launch. Rangers located the operator, a 50-year-old from St. Johnsville, and issued a ticket for operating a motor vehicle on state land.
DEC Recreation Highlights: Give the Gift of an Adirondack Adventure and #LiveGreenNY
Looking for the perfect gift? Forget wrapping paper and bows. Instead, think outside of the box and gift an Adirondack adventure instead of material things. Need inspiration? If your recipient enjoys outdoor adventure, then they may like to go:
- Hiking – Gift someone a day of quality time spent together on the trail. Pick a hike appropriate for the recipient and the weather, and remember to pack the 10 hiking essentials. Consider a DEC First Day Hike and get ready to enjoy the views.
- Birdwatching – Gift a pair of binoculars or plan on visiting one of the many sites on the New York State Birding Trail. Don’t forget to take photos and log the types of feathered friends you encounter.
Outdoor Conditions (12/9): Minimal snow coverage in High Peaks, microspikes recommended
The following are only the most recent notices pertaining to public lands in the Adirondacks. Please check the Adirondack Backcountry webpages for a full list of notices, including seasonal road statuses, rock climbing closures, specific trail conditions, and other pertinent information
NEW THIS WEEK
High Peaks Wilderness Snow Report (12/08): There is minimal snow at the Colden Caretaker Cabin. Higher summits also have minimal snow coverage – snowshoes may not be needed, but microspikes are highly recommended. Ski trails are not in good condition at this time. Trails in general are messy and slippery due to thin ice coverage. Lakes have thin ice and are not currently crossable.
Pine Lake Primitive Area: Seasonal gates on Chain of Lakes Rd. have been closed for the season
DEC to Host Annual Children’s Holiday Party at Ray Brook Headquarters, Dec. 16
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 5 invites the public to attend a Children’s Holiday Party at their regional headquarters in Ray Brook on Friday, Dec. 16, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Children and their families can meet Santa and Smokey Bear, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and participate in a variety of activities including face painting and coloring.
“We are excited to once again invite local children and their families to join us at our regional headquarters for a celebration of the holiday season,” said DEC Region 5 Regional Director Joe Zalewski. “After two years of cancelled events due to the pandemic, our staff looks forward to welcoming the community in person for such a joyful occasion.”
The DEC Region 5 headquarters are located at 1115 NY Route 86, Ray Brook, NY 12977. The event will take place in the building’s lobby and main conference room. Please park in the lot directly in front of the building and enter through the front doors. The event is free and open to all members of the public with no RSVP required.
Photo at top: Wikimedia Commons photo.
Ceremony held for 38 graduates, rangers recognized for courageous, dedicated service
Towns of Franklin and Santa Clara
Franklin County
Illegal ATV Use: On Dec. 1, Ranger Praczkajlo followed ATV tracks in the town of Franklin and determined the operators were riding the ATVs illegally on Forest Preserve land. When the Ranger located the operators, he issued two tickets to each, including for driving unregistered ATVs. On Dec. 2, Ranger Praczkajlo followed other ATV tracks and found an operator from Bloomingdale driving an unregistered ATV illegally on a public easement. He issued two tickets. An ATV must be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles if it is operated anywhere in New York State, including the owner’s property.
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Latest News Headlines
- Adirondack Foundation celebrates 25 years of philanthropic impact
- Ask a Scientist: Climate research
- Small towns in St. Lawrence and Lewis counties are finally getting high-speed internet
- DEC releases draft plan to guide future Adirondack trail work
- Ticonderoga dreams big for downtown improvements
- Curling, explained*
- Frontier Town: New life for Adirondack landmark
- Hiking grandma logs 1,000 Adirondack miles in 2022
- What's next for free shuttles in the Adirondacks?
- Andrea Hogan resigns from Adirondack Park Agency
The Adirondack Almanack
The Adirondack Almanack is a public forum dedicated to promoting and discussing current events, history, arts, nature and outdoor recreation and other topics of interest to the Adirondacks and its communities
We publish commentary and opinion pieces from voluntary contributors, as well as news updates and event notices from area organizations. Contributors include veteran local writers, historians, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the Adirondack region. The information, views and opinions expressed by these various authors are not necessarily those of the Adirondack Almanack or its publisher, the Adirondack Explorer.
General inquiries about the Adirondack Almanack should be directed to editor Melissa Hart.
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