Wildlife, Fish, and Marine Life Newsletter: Onondaga Lake Wetlands Restoration; Snowshoe Hare at WMA

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 01/18/2018 10:00 AM EST
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Wildlife, Fish, and Marine Life Newsletter

Onondaga Lake Wetland and Shoreline Restoration is Nearly Complete

Onondaga Lake Wetland VegetationHealthy wetland and shoreline habitats are important for birds, fish, and other wildlife, especially near a city like Syracuse. To remove pollution from Onondaga Lake, several important wetland communities, including shoreline vegetation, had to be removed or disturbed. DEC biologists helped design and carry out the clean-up and restoration of the lake. Key to the success of wetland restoration is the return of clean soil; appropriate water conditions; and healthy, strong vegetation. The initial restoration was completed in the fall of 2017, so now the recovery of the disturbed habitats can begin. It will take several years for much of the vegetation to mature. However, as the photo demonstrates, vegetation has taken hold in many locations and will continue to recover. This will lead to improved habitats, fishing, and wildlife watching around the lake.

Photo by Tracy A. Smith

DEC to Survey Snowshoe Hare on Tug Hill Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Tug Hill Wildlife Management AreaDEC will begin surveys for snowshoe (varying) hare (Lepus americanus) this winter on Tug Hill WMA. The surveys are part of the Young Forest Initiative monitoring efforts to determine hare usage of timber-harvested areas. The Habitat Management Plan for Tug Hill WMA (PDF, 1.98 MB) describes the management activities planned for the area over the next 10 years.

Tug Hill WMA is primarily managed for common forest-dwelling species. Raptors such as northern goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, and owls can be found on the WMA. You may also find birds like thrushes or yellow-bellied flycatcher.

Tug Hill WMA is a popular destination for deer hunters seeking a wilderness-like experience. Upland game bird hunters come in search of grouse and woodcock, while small game hunters target snowshoe hare. Trappers also travel to this area each fall to pursue species uncommon in other areas of the state such as otter, fisher, and bobcat. Edick Creek, which runs through the WMA, is a good place to fish for brook trout.