July 2015 Outdoor Discovery Newsletter

News update from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
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People canoeing down the Hudson River


New York State has wonderful recreational opportunities which will be highlighted for you each month. Start planning your next adventure now!


conservationist what is it feature

Can you tell what's pictured here? To find out, see page 17 of the June Conservationist. In this issue: join researchers as they tag horseshoe crabs on Long Island and band loons at night in the Adirondacks; learn how fly fishing helps veterans on a journey of healing; read how DEC rangers train to perform dangerous swift-water rescues; be inspired by author Richard Louv as he describes the revival of conservationists; and enjoy never-before-seen photos of life in the Adirondacks, taken by the late woodswoman Anne LaBastille. All this and more is in the June Conservationist. Subscribe online or call 1-800-678-6399.

 


DEC Events

Family Fishing at Norrie Point EEC - 7/11
Dragons in Your Backyard at Reinstein Woods - 7/11
Citizen Science: Butterfly Census at Five Rivers - 7/11
Oyster Toadfish Season Opens - 7/16
Invasive Species Awareness Week at Five Rivers - 7/18
Natural Navigator, Mt. Loretto Unique Area - 7/25
Full "Buck Moon" Walk at Reinstein Woods - 7/31

See more upcoming events


Nature Notes

The eastern (red-spotted) newt

The eastern (red-spotted) newt is a widespread and native salamander of New York State and eastern North America that can live for 12-15 years!


Safe and Sound

Poison ivy

Protect your skin when removing poison ivy plants by wearing vinyl gloves (the oily resin, urushiol, can penetrate rubber). Never burn poison ivy plants, the smoke can cause a severe reaction to the eyes, skin, nose and throat.


App promo

Download the New York Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App from the Apple App store or Google Play store.


Explore for FREE

You can explore many state lands free of charge. However, some state campgrounds and day-use areas charge a small fee, depending on the season (campsite rentals extra).


Let Us Know

We hope you enjoy this newsletter and will share information about your favorite hiking spot or recreation activity, or an outdoor tip with us. Your feedback is always welcome. E-mail us.

If you like this newsletter, please forward it to your friends.


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Maurice D. Hinchey Catskill Interpretive Center Grand Opening

Maurice D. Hinchey Catskill Interpretive Center

Mt. Tremper, Ulster County
Twenty-five years in the making, the Catskill Interpretive Center has finally opened to visitors. The first of its kind, it serves as a welcome center for visitors to the Catskill Park, providing information and interactive displays about recreational opportunities, and the natural resources, history and culture of the Catskill region. Visitors can also get information on activities and events in the Catskills and hike the trails on the property and nearby public land.


Hike of the Month: Palmer's Pond State Forest

A woman and a child looking at pine cones

West Almond, Allegany County
This 3,645-acre area offers opportunities for many outdoor recreational activities, including: hiking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, birdwatching and nature photography. Palmer's Pond State Forest provides various habitats for numerous wildlife species, such as: deer, rabbit, grouse and turkey. There are 12 miles of marked trails, including two 5-mile loops. The trails comprise wide dirt and grass paths through wooded areas, and dirt and gravel forest access roads. Hunting and fishing are allowed on the property. Roadside camping is permitted only at designated campsites marked with yellow "Camp Here" disks.


Watchable Wildlife: Immerse Yourself in Nature at Nicks Lake

Man in a kayak

Old Forge, Herkimer County
Nicks Lake Campground is set in idyllic Black River Wild Forest in the southwest corner of the Adirondack Park. With more than 150 campsites and 5 miles of hiking trails, you can spend days observing the abundant wildlife at this serene 205-acre lake and more than 3,500 acres of forest. Paddling around at dusk for bass or trout, listen for the loon's soulful call or beavers splashing. Warblers, woodpeckers, chipmunks, red squirrels and whitetail deer are everywhere. Minutes away you can ride the chairlift to the top of McCauley Mountain to view the Fulton Chain of Lakes. Or drive into Old Forge and visit its many shops and restaurants. Check the Nicks Lake Campground webpage for more details.


Paddle Tivoli Bays

Girls carrying canoes out onto a dock

Dutchess County
This fascinating tidal marsh offers spectacular plants, interesting wildlife, and scenic views of the Catskills. Look for banded killifish skipping along the top of the water, red-wing blackbirds flying above the marsh, and blooming wildflowers in this natural perennial garden. Enjoy unique sights, sounds, and smells as you wander through one of the most amazing protected sites on the Hudson.

Tivoli Bays extends for two miles along the east shore of the Hudson River, between Tivoli and Barrytown in Red Hook, Dutchess County. The site includes two large coves-Tivoli North Bay and Tivoli South Bay. There are several launches for canoes and kayaks, as well as trails to explore. Free public canoe trips are available throughout the summer.

Hunting, trapping and fishing are permitted during legal seasons, except as restricted by posted notice. Note that poison ivy is prevalent in Tivoli Bays.


Vacation in New York This Summer

Screenshot of I LOVE NY newsletter

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In addition to world-class attractions, New York State is home to an abundance of premier festivals, sporting events, concerts and more. The I LOVE NEW YORK e-Newsletter brings you the latest and greatest New York State travel opportunities.

Sign up to receive the I LOVE NEW YORK e-Newsletter, offering the latest travel news and offers from I LOVE NEW YORK.

 
July 2015 DEC Outdoor Discovery Newsletter © New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

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