The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the temporary closure of the Stanley J. Hamlin Marsh Wildlife Management Area (WMA) trail at the Old Wetzel Road access in the Town of Clay, Onondaga County, after a DEC boardwalk and viewing blind was damaged by fire.

DEC’s Division of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident that occurred on Wednesday, May 13, and closed the trail at the parking area on Old Wetzel Road. DEC will reopen the WMA trail following cleanup of debris and potential hazards, which is expected to take a few days upon completion of the investigation.

Approximately 88% of the 1,686-acre Hamlin WMA is designated as wetland habitat. Like most of the state's WMAs, DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife manages Hamlin Marsh WMA for wildlife conservation and wildlife-associated recreation including hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing, and photography. In the past, it was referred to as Clay Marsh, Little Cicero Swamp, and Peat Swamp. In 1994, it was renamed Stanley J. Hamlin Marsh WMA after a local prominent conservationist who was instrumental in the State’s acquisition of the area. 

DEC asks that anyone with information related to this incident call (315) 426-7431.

For updates and more information related to this release, please contact DEC Region 7 Public Information Officer Bryan Chambala at (315) 956-1038 or bryan.chambala@dec.ny.gov.