DEC Celebrates Outdoors Day at Mount Loretto Unique Area in Staten Island

Part of Statewide Events Highlighting Family-Friendly Recreation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is celebrating "Outdoors Day" on Saturday, June 9, at Mount Loretto Unique Area. The event is part of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's Adventure NY initiative to connect people to nature and provide increased access to outdoor recreation through hands-on activities. Outdoors Day events are being held statewide for New Yorkers of all ages and abilities to try out a wide range of recreational activities.

DEC Regional Director Steve Zahn said, "Mt Loretto Unique area provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. From casting a line out into Princes Bay, or partaking in a nature hike to explore the wetland trails of the property, DEC is excited to host Outdoors Day. We encourage you to stop by and spend the day with staff as we highlight family friendly activities that can be done statewide."

New York's Outdoors Day complements National Get Outdoors Day, an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun. At events across the state, Outdoors Day participants will be able to discover new skills and try out a range of introductory outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, paddling, hiking, biking, bird watching, archery, nature photography, camping, and more.

Activities at Mount Loretto Unique Area Includes:

• Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing: The I Fish NY program will be offering free catch-and-release fishing clinics for all ages. Learn about fishing equipment, techniques, regulations, consumption advisories, and good places to fish. Participants may bring their own gear but rods and reels will be available for loan.
• Camping 101: Visitors can try their hand at camping basics by pitching a tent on the lawn and learning what and how to pack for a camping trip. When the day is complete, participants will be prepared for an outdoor adventure of their own.
• Paddling: Learn the basics of this fun fast-growing sport and try getting out on the water.
• Archery: Try your hand at getting a bullseye with a bow and arrow and learn important safety tips.
• Birdwatching: Learn how easy and fun it is to enjoy birdwatching almost anywhere.
• Hiking: Take a short hike and learn the basics of finding the perfect trails to get out on your own.
• Outdoor safety: Learn the basics of being prepared and safe so all your outdoor adventures are good ones.

Most sites are wheelchair accessible.

DEC manages 4.6 million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill forest preserves, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails, and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and Instagram.