The Outdoor Issue – Summer 2017

Summer is in full swing and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) encourages New Yorkers and visitors to take advantage of recreational opportunities available across the State.

TAKE A NEW YORK STATE-CATION

If you are looking for a break that doesn’t break the bank, consider one of DEC’s 52 campgrounds. DEC campgrounds are located in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks and provide a wide variety of experiences, including island camping, tent and trailer camping, boat launching facilities, hiking trails, beaches and day use areas with picnic tables and grills.

State campgrounds outside the Adirondack Forest Preserve and Catskill Forest Preserve are operated by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). For more information call (518) 474-0456.

Check out an interactive version of the Camping Guide here or check out other OPRHP brochures and publications here. 

Don’t forget to visit DEC's website for more camping information.

Visit DEC Campgrounds on Facebook!

LET'S FISH NY

DEC’s I FISH NY Program provides many opportunities for fishing education, participation and awareness throughout New York State. I FISH NY also offers Train the Trainer programs, Fishing Rod Loaner programs, and in-school programs in NYC and Long Island for grades 3-12 during the school year.

The I FISH NY Program's goal is to increase fishing participation and awareness of the outstanding fishing opportunities throughout New York State.

I FISH NY free fishing clinics and festivals are opportunities where participants can fish for free without the required fishing license or enrollment in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry is required.

Please visit our website for a complete list of events: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27123.html

For more information about the I FISH NY Program, please visit: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/89362.html

Already a fishing expert? Need a license? Click here for more information and to purchase a license online.

HIKING – NATURE’S MEDICINE

New York State has an abundance of hiking trails and forests to explore that provide good ways to stay active. In addition to physical fitness, studies show there are several other benefits of spending time in nature including reduced stress-related hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, lowered blood pressure and improved mood (Business Insider, April 22, 2016, Lauren F. Friedman and Kevin Loria).

New York has a diverse landscape featuring thousands of miles of trails for hikers of all abilities. DEC maintains hiking trails on Forest Preserve lands in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks as well as on State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas and Unique Areas suitable for either a casual stroll or a scenic nature trek. Many of these trails are accessible throughout the year. If you are not familiar with hiking or walking trails, please visit our website at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/351.html.

Find a hike in your area by visiting our website at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/82098.html

Check out our Hiking Safety Tips before setting out on your journey.

Always practice the principles of Leave No Trace.

BIRDING in NY

Birding combines the challenge of bird study with outdoor and environmental education. New York is home to a vast array of amazing habitat that supports more than 450 different bird species. From Montauk to Buffalo, Bird watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities that can be enjoyed by all ages and experiences, plus it's a great way to get outdoors. Join the fun! Get out and try bird watching today. It's easy to get started.

Please visit our website for links to regional bird walks and birding programs, and tips on how to become an avid bird watcher. Our website also includes information on special programs like DEC's Bird Challenge for Kids, New York's Bird Conservation Areas (BCAs), and other events, activities, and attractions to help people - young and old - discover the fascinating world of birds.

GET ON THE WATER

New York State has more than 7,500 lakes, ponds and reservoirs and over 70,000 miles of rivers and streams. Paddling on these water bodies can take the form of canoes, kayaks, and rafts. Many lakes, ponds and rivers in the Adirondacks and Catskills provide paddling opportunities without motorized boating.

Paddling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, view the forests and mountains and watch wildlife on the water and along the shore. Whether it's a leisurely flat water paddle on a pond or lake or an exciting whitewater paddle on a raging river, there are a range of paddling opportunities in New York State to meet the desires of all paddlers.

Interested in paddling? Check out our website for more information on where to go and great safety tips.

Remember:

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR TICKS

While spending time outdoors, DEC wants to remind everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely and that includes checking themselves for ticks every day. Ticks can carry diseases, including Lyme disease, which is carried by the Blacklegged Tick, also known as the “deer tick.” 

The chances of being bitten by a deer tick or other tick are greater during warmer weather such as in the summer. Avoid ticks by wearing light-colored clothing, long sleeves and pants, and keeping your clothing tucked in. When hiking, stay on cleared, well-traveled trails. Walk in the center of trails. Avoid contact with vegetation such as high grass, bushy areas, and leaf piles. Be sure to check clothes and any exposed skin frequently for ticks while outdoors and tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing after you come indoors.

More information can be found at www.cdc.gov/ticks and www.health.ny.gov/environmental/pests/tick.