Forests, Plants and Land Conservation News

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 01/14/2019 01:02 PM EST
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
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Forests, Plants and Land Conservation News

"Spruce" Up Your Property with DEC Nursery Stock

Seedlings at DEC's Saratoga Tree NurseryDEC's Saratoga Tree Nursery spring seedling sale is happening now through May 9! More than 40 native tree and shrub species are available for low prices. Can't decide what you want? Try a mixed species packet like streamside habitat builders, Long Island-specific natives, or pollinator-popular flowering species. DEC strongly urges customers to order by phone at 518.587.1120 so that operators can provide the most up-to-date availability information.

 

Snow Much Fun on DEC Conservation Easement Lands

Stillwater Fire Tower in the western AdirondacksExplore somewhere new this winter by getting outside on DEC conservation easement (CE) lands! DEC has more than 900,000 acres of CE lands, with many allowing public access for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and/or snowmobiling.

Looking for a snowshoe adventure? Big Moose Conservation Easement Tract in the western Adirondacks offers the Stillwater Fire Tower Trail - a one-mile (one-way) jaunt for snowshoers of all skill levels. The recently reopened trail leads to the fire tower, where adventurous visitors can get a view of the Stillwater Reservoir (and on a clear day, the Adirondack High Peaks!) from the tower's renovated cab. The trailhead is located on Big Moose Road, approximately two miles south of the Stillwater Road intersection. Please stay on the trail as the rest of the property is private land.

Whichever DEC easement property you choose to explore, please note that each state easement property has different rules regarding public access and activities. Be sure to read up on an individual easement's webpage or contact the local DEC office for details before you visit.

Show Your Outdoor Trees Some TLC this Winter

Placing evergreen branches around the base of a tree can protect against salt damageWith the holiday season behind us, consider following these simple tips to help your outdoor trees through winter hazards:

  • When discarding a Christmas tree, you can place its branches around young trees to moderate soil temperature. For trees located close to the road, this is also a great way to protect against salt damage.
  • Remove holiday lights from trees sooner rather than later. Lights left on into the growing season can interfere with new growth and harm the tree.
  • As snow accumulates, deer or rabbits can sometimes reach above tree protections to feed on your trees and shrubs. Adjust tree tubes and wraps as needed to ensure maximum protection.

Check out the Arbor Day website for more tree care tips.