DEC Contact: Erin Hanczyk (518) 897-1361 May 05, 2022
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DEC ISSUES GUIDANCE ON SPRING RECREATION IN THE ADIRONDACKSEnjoy the Adirondacks Safely and Responsibly this Spring |
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reminds visitors to recreate responsibly in the Adirondacks this spring to help protect State lands for future generations. Spring is an excellent time to get outdoors and enjoy warming temperatures, but it can also pose many risks to outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife, and natural resources. DEC encourages visitors to public lands to recreate responsibly to protect themselves and the resource. Practice the Seven Principles of Leave No TraceTM (https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/119881.html): Leave No Trace™ principles provide a framework for safe and sustainable recreation. Based on outdoor ethics rather than rules, the principles provide guidelines that can be tailored to a variety of outdoor activities and an individual’s specific experience. Before heading out to visit State lands, DEC encourages outdoor adventurers to review and familiarize themselves with these principles to help be prepared, stay safe, and minimize damage to shared lands and waterways. Follow the Muddy Trail Advisory (https://www.dec.ny.gov/press/125123.html): Hikers are advised to avoid hiking on high elevation trails above 2,500 feet until further notice. Despite recent warm weather, high elevation trails are still covered in slowly melting ice and snow. These steep trails feature thin soils that become a mix of ice and mud as winter conditions melt and frost leaves the ground. Sliding boots destroy trail tread, damage surrounding vegetation, and erode thin soils, increasing the likelihood of washouts; rotten snow and monorails are a safety hazard even with proper equipment; and high elevation and alpine vegetation are extremely fragile during this time. Hikers can encounter thick mud, flooding, ice, and deep slushy snow even on low-elevation trails.
Avoid wet and muddy mountain biking trails: Trail systems can be severely damaged by eager mountain bikers who hit the trail too early in the season.
Plan and prepare for variable conditions: Spring weather can change rapidly. Prepare for every occasion by bringing the 10 Hike Smart NY (https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28708.html) essentials, including: food, water, navigation, warm layers, snowshoes and traction devices, a headlamp, first-aid kit, and matches or a lighter. Stay up to date with current weather reports and if the forecast calls for harsh conditions, consider rescheduling. Always check the forecast the morning and evening of a planned trip and the day after a trip so the proper gear is brought in case of an emergency or unplanned overnight. Make a timeline, including a turnaround time, and stick to it. Visitors should leave their trip plans with a trusted friend or relative that will call for help if they don't return on time. Safely enjoy spring water recreation: Paddling, fishing and boating are great ways to sustainably enjoy the outdoors this spring if done responsibly. Waterways are still very cold and with spring snow melt, high water and swift currents are always a possibility.
Know how to protect against ticks: Ticks are very small bugs that can spread Lyme and various other diseases through their bites. Deer ticks live in shady, moist areas at ground level. Be tick free (https://www.dec.ny.gov/public/111538.html):
Give wildlife ample space: Spring is a vulnerable time for wildlife. Some come out of hibernation and most begin to search for fresh food wherever they can find it. This can mean wildlife encounters closer to trails, parking areas, and roadways.
New York State lands belong to all of us, and we all have a responsibility to protect them. Love Our New York Lands (https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/119881.html) this spring by practicing responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation, Leave No TraceTM, and giving back through volunteer work and stewardship. |
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