The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that the agency is accepting public comments on regulatory proposals for the Brookfield Trail System at the Moscow Hill Camping and Assembly areas in Madison County. The proposed changes are designed to ensure public health and safety and to safeguard natural resources for generations of enjoyment on this popular multiuse trail system.

Proposed regulation changes include:

• Requiring proof of current negative Coggins certificate and rabies vaccination for all horses, and a 30-day health certificate for out-of-state horses;
• Prohibiting use of temporary paddocks and corals or tying of horses to existing trees in the Moscow Hill Camping Area;
• Requiring all dogs and cats in the Moscow Hill Camping Area to be leashed and under the control of the owner at all times during use of facilities;
• Prohibiting riding of horses and mountain bikes on trails other than those designated, including renegade or unofficial trails; and
• Establishing seasonal trail closures for horses and mountain bikes from November 1 through April 30.

The Brookfield Trail System and adjacent Moscow Hill Camping and Assembly areas are part of a 100-mile complex of recreational trails designated for use by horses, llamas, mountain bikers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The trail system is located on three state forests, Beaver Creek, Brookfield Railroad, and Charles E. Baker. 

To view these proposals and provide input, visit DEC’s website. DEC encourages feedback on the proposed regulations currently under consideration. Comments will be accepted through May 17, 2020. Comments and questions can be directed to: Robert Messenger, Chief, Bureau of Forest Resource Management, Division of Lands and Forests, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4255 or bslmregs@dec.ny.gov.