Celebrate New York Fishing and Hunting
September 27th is National Hunting and Fishing Day, and New York State offers anglers and hunters an unparalleled variety of places to celebrate our outdoor traditions. One place with a surprising number of great fishing spots is New York City. Piers, beaches and marshy shores offer saltwater fishing. Lakes and ponds in the city's many parks offer freshwater fishing. Check DEC's NYC saltwater fishing guide and list of freshwater fishing sites.
As a major rest stop for migrating waterfowl, Long Island is a premier waterfowl hunting destination. September Canada goose season on central and eastern Long Island runs from September 2-30. Northern Zone bowhunting for deer and Youth Pheasant Hunting Weekend in eastern NY also coincide with National Hunting and Fishing Day.
National Hunting and Fishing Day's website lists other New York State regional events.
Hike of the Month: Hudson River Ramble
The Catskills are never more beautiful than when the leaves begin to show their fall colors. The Hudson River Ramble, held each September, celebrates the history, culture and natural resources of the Hudson River Valley. Bikes, paddles, hikes and tours highlight the amazing landscape, communities and trails throughout the region. Visit the Hudson River Ramble events page for more information and to register. Events are scheduled on each weekend of the month: September 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, 2014.
Lace up your hiking boots, don your life jacket or hop on your bike and enjoy one of the hundreds of events scheduled.
Check the August 2014 issue of Conservationist magazine to learn more.
Finger Lakes National Forest
Schuyler County More than 16,000 acres of diverse habitat straddling a ridge between Cayuga and Seneca lakes will delight any wildlife watcher's soul. Its mix of grasslands (complete with free-range cattle), hedgerows, abandoned orchards, forest, and riparian areas attracts a variety of songbirds, butterflies, and game animals such as deer and turkey. With over 30 miles of interconnecting trails that traverse gorges and ravines, this forest is a favorite with hikers and horseback riders.
A nearby campground and numerous area wineries make fall the perfect time to plan a weekend (or longer) getaway and explore New York State's only national forest and the breathtaking Finger Lakes area.
Fall Festivals at DEC's Environmental Education Centers
DEC operates two environmental education centers: Five Rivers Environmental Education Center (outside Albany, NY) and Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Environmental Education Center (outside Buffalo, NY). These centers offer classes and programs that focus on the natural environment of New York State. Each has interpretive trails, exhibit areas and meeting rooms, and each offers family-oriented events year-round.
On Saturday, September 20, from noon to 4 PM, Five Rivers will host its annual fall festival, a free, family-friendly environmental celebration featuring hands-on educational activities, interactive exhibits, interpretive walks and more. Enjoy opportunities to meet live hawks, owls, snakes and turtles up close. Meet Smokey Bear, cast for "backyard bass," and see exhibits staffed by local conservation partners. In addition, refreshments, plants and birdseed will be available for purchase, and two bands will provide live music.
Also on September 20th, the 14th Annual Fall Festival at Reinstein Woods will be held from 10 AM to 4 PM. Celebrate autumn with nature and environmental organizations, live animals, demonstrations, crafts for kids and more! The Friends of Reinstein Nature Preserve request $2 per person to help with festival expenses.
|