The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) Region 6, in partnership with the State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), is hosting 'Get Outdoors & Get Together Day' on June 8 at the Lowville Forestry Demonstration Area, 7327 State Route 812, Lowville, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get Outdoors & Get Together Day brings people of all abilities, ages, identities, and backgrounds together for fun, healthful activities as part of Governor Kathy Hochul's efforts to broaden the diversity of users and ensure inclusivity of access to public lands. Full details, including schedules, can be found on DEC's website.

Free family activities at Lowville include:

• Archery with adaptive equipment;
• Campfire cooking and s’mores;
• Fishing with adaptive equipment;
• Hiking safety talk with DEC Forest Rangers;
• Story walk, self-guided;
• Crafts: pinecone bird feeders, bird houses, and flower planting;
• Yard games;
• Accessible fishing and wildlife viewing pier; and
• Accessible trail around the pond.
  

The event will be held rain or shine. Equipment will be provided for archery and fishing. Attendees may also bring their own fishing poles and equipment for personal use and are encouraged to bring their own snacks and sunblock. Participants are encouraged to Love Our New York Lands all year by practicing Leave No Trace™ principles and by recreating safely and sustainably and hiking in suitable conditions based on weather and experience level.a

For further information, contact Andrea Mercurio, Forester I, Bureau of Forest Resource Management, by phone at (315) 376-3521, or email andrea.mercurio@dec.ny.gov.