Wildlife, Fish, and Marine Life Newsletter

Help DEC by Reporting Atlantic Sturgeon Sightings

Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus) are anadromous fish, meaning they’re born in freshwater but spend most of their lives at sea, and return to freshwater only to spawn. Sturgeons are a primitive species that previously supported a major commercial fishery in the region. Due to overfishing, they’re now prohibited from being taken and are listed as an endangered species. Please report live or dead sightings of sturgeons in the Marine and Coastal District by calling 631-444-0462. In the Hudson River, please call 845-256-3073.

State Lands to Visit: Helmer Creek Wildlife Management Area

Helmer Creek is a 126-acre Wildlife Management Area (WMA) located in Steuben County, in the Southern Tier of New York state. Despite the relatively small size of the property, which was once a farm, many diverse habitats exist – grassland, shrubland, upland deciduous forest, a small pond, and a steep conifer gully that runs down to the cool waters of Helmer Creek. This property is managed to promote quality habitat for rare species. Prescribed fire is used to promote warm-season grasses such as switchgrass and big and little bluestem. 41 acres were managed with prescribed fire in 2017 (see photo). An 8-acre clear cut to create young forest habitat is planned for 2018.

Although a small WMA, excellent hunting opportunities exist for both small and big game. White-tailed deer are the primary big game species, although black bear are also hunted. Small game species include cottontail rabbit, ruffed grouse, squirrels, wild turkey, and woodcock. Furbearer species such as raccoon, red and gray fox, skunk, coyote, and weasel can be found on the WMA. An administrative road can be walked to provide access to the interior of the property.