The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently completed several improvement projects at Ashland Flats Wildlife Management Area (WMA), located in the towns of Lyme and Cape Vincent, Jefferson County. Improvements at the WMA include a?n accessible wildlife observation tower, along with a designated accessible parking area and educational sign. Ashland Flats WMA consists primarily of large grassland fields, wetland impoundments, shrubland, and forested wetlands. The WMA is a designated Bird Conservation Area.

“Outdoor enthusiasts will have enhanced wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities from this new, accessible observation tower,” said Randall C. Young, Region 6, Regional Director. “Visitors should bring their binoculars and cameras to Ashland Flats for added enjoyment. Several rare species of birds can be seen here during the breeding season and the winter. Black terns are known to nest in the large impoundment and winter raptors roost among the grassland fields. It is not uncommon to catch a glimpse of a white-tailed deer crossing the fields or a beaver swimming in the impounded wetland.”

Due to the variety of habitat types on the area, Ashland Flats WMA is a popular destination for hunters. The tower’s construction was supported by $16,000 from the State’s Environmental Protection Fund and Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration (Pittman-Robertson ACT) monies. Learn more about the WMA on DEC’s website.

Note: Photos attached courtesy of NYSDEC.