The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced an information session to solicit public input on the development of the 10-year update to the Winona State Forest Unit Management Plan (UMP). The meeting will include a short presentation by DEC Region 6 Division of Lands and Forests, followed by an open table session with DEC staff to facilitate conversation and answer questions.

Where: Mannsville Manor Elementary School, 423 N. Main Street, Mannsville NY 13361

When: Thursday May 30, 2024, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

The Winona State Forest contains 9,233 acres and is located on the boundary of southern Jefferson County in the towns of Lorraine and Ellisburg and northern Oswego County in the town of Boylston. The State Forest includes the site of the Civilian Conservation Corps Mannsville Camp. 

Due to the amount of lake-effect snow the area receives, the State Forest contains many recreational trails used for cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities. In recent years, these trails have seen increased use for summer activities. The update examines forestry, maintenance, and recreation activities on the unit over the past 10 years and looks at future recommendations to meet needs for the next 10 years. This plan will update the 2013 Winona UMP.  

Those unable to attend the information session may submit comments through mail to Andrea Mercurio, NYS DEC, 7327 State Route 812, Lowville New York, 13367, or by email to R6.UMP@dec.ny.gov. DEC will accept public comments on these documents through July 11, 2024.  

For more information and to view the current Unit Management Plan, please visit the Winona State Forest webpage, https://dec.ny.gov/places/winona-state-forest.