Upper Washbowl reopened to climbers

The cliffs of Upper Washbowl seen from Chapel Pond. Photo by Phil Brown.

Rock climbers will have a few more routes to climb this weekend, according to Joe Racette, a biologist for the state Department of Environmental Conservation who monitors the nesting of peregrine falcons on cliffs.

Racette said the Upper Washbowl cliffs near Chapel Pond are now open to climbers. DEC closes Upper Washbowl and Lower Washbowl each spring at the start of the falcons’ breeding season. DEC has ascertained that that this year the falcons are nesting on Lower Washbowl.

Upper Washbowl has twenty-one climbing routes, including one established by Fritz Weissner, one of the top climbers of his era, in 1938. There will be a story about the historic Wiessner Route in the next issue of the Adirondack Explorer. Meantime, you can read more about the route on Adirondack Almanack.

Lower Washbowl will remain closed to climbers until the falcons fledge.

DEC hopes to pinpoint soon the location of a falcons’ next on Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain, one of the largest climbing areas in the Adirondack Park. For the time being, most of the routes on the Main Face will remain closed.

RockSport, a climbing gym in Queensbury, recently informed DEC that falcons were nesting on the Main Wall of Shelving Rock, a climbing destination near Lake George. As a result, DEC has closed the routes between Snake Charmer and Wake and Bake.

Click here for updates on climbing-route closures.

Rock-climbing routes closed to protect falcons

Upper Washbowl Cliff seen from Chapel Pond. Photo by Phil Brown.

A sure sign of spring is when the state Department of Environmental Conservation closes rock-climbing routes in the Adirondacks to protect the nesting sites of peregrine falcons.

Each spring, DEC bans climbing on routes on Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain, Upper and Lower Washbowl Cliffs, and Moss Cliff. Once biologists ascertain where falcons are nesting, some routes are reopened. Sometime in summer, after the falcons fledge, all routes are reopened.

Following is a notice sent out today by Joe Racette, a DEC wildlife ecologist:

Effective today, April 1, 2013, the following Adirondack rock climbing routes are closed to protect Peregrine falcon nest sites.

Moss Cliff – All routes closed

Chapel Pond – All routes on Upper and Lower Washbowl Cliffs closed

Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain – All routes on the Main Face are closed except the following routes described on pages 39-45 of Adirondack Rock: A Rock Climber’s Guide:

1. Opposition
2. Goat’s Foot on Rock
3. High and Dry
4. Bushmaster
5. Big Buddha
6. Bushido
7. Bodacious
8. Pearly Gates
9. Kaibob
10. Battle Creek
11. Static Cling
12. Certified Raw
13. Air Male
14. Son of a Mother
15. Phase III
16. Bastard
17. Ladder
18. Puppies on Edge
19. Hang ‘Em High
20 Group Therapy
21. Adonis
22. Pandemonium
23. Discord
24. A Womb with a View

Current route closure information will be posted at trailheads and online at:

http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7870.html

No charges for snowmobiler whose sled sank in lake

A snowmobile that sank in Lake Flower after its driver intentionally drove it over open water has been removed and apparently did not contaminate the water, according to a spokesman for the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

David Winchell, the spokesman, said the snowmobile was pulled out of the lake Friday evening, hours after the incident. “Examination of the snowmobile indicates all motor fluids are intact, so no fluids were released into the lake,” Winchell said in an e-mail.

He added that DEC will not issue any tickets to the driver, whom he identified as Shawn Wales, 37, of Saranac Lake.

Lori Severino, a spokeswoman in DEC’s Albany office, said there were no violations. “Fluids did not leak into the lake, and the snowmobile was promptly removed from the lake,” she said in an e-mail.

The Adirondack Daily Enterprise reported on Saturday that two snowmobilers were observed going back and forth over open water on Lake Flower on Friday afternoon. Amanda Irvine called 911 after she and her son saw one sledder go into the lake. Her son ran to a dock and helped the man out of the water.

“I said, ‘Why don’t you get in someone’s vehicle until the rescue gets here so you don’t get hypothermic?’ and he was pissed off, to say the least,” Amanda Irvine told the Enterprise. “I said, ‘Well, it’s better your snowmobile than your life.’”

She said the man walked away. She added that she gave the other snowmobiler a “tongue lashing” for being foolhardy, but the man said nothing and left on his machine.

Click here to read the Enterprise story.

Rescue report for August and September

Following is the state Department of Environmental Conservation Region 5′s report of searches and rescues from August and September. Region 5 includes the eastern two-thirds of the Adirondack Park.

Essex County

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at approximately 9:53 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from a hiker at Adirondack Mountain Club*s Adirondack Loj reporting that his hiking partner had gotten ahead of him after the bridge over Marcy Brook. When the hiker arrived at the trailhead he could not locate Ja.m.es Mateyka, 43, of Rochester, NY anywhere in the area. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and searched the trails until 3:00a.m. A few hours later, four additional Forest Rangers responded and continued searching the area. At 9:45a.m., Mr. Mateyka was located on the Algonquin Trail near the junction with the Whales Tail Trail by the Algonquin Summit Steward. He reported that he followed an old trail from the junction of the VanHovenberg Trail and the Algonquin Trail to MacIntyre Brook, where he spent the night. At first light, Mr. Mateyka followed the brook to MacIntyre Falls and located the main Algonquin Trail. He was heading back to the trailhead when he was located. DEC Forest Rangers provided him a ride back to his ca.m.psite at the DEC Rollins Pond Ca.m.pground. Stay together when hiking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Saturday, August 18, 2012, at approximately 11:45 p.m., DEC Central Dispatch received a call reporting two overdue hikers. The caller’s family members, David Smith, 46, and Peggy Smith, 45, both of Central Square, NY, had begun a hike up Mt. Marcy at 9:00 a.m. with a group of other hikers from the Adirondack Loj Trailhead. Mr. and Mrs. Smith had contacted their family member at 5:00 p.m. stating they were at Indian Falls along the VanHovenberg Trail. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and located the Smiths on the VanHovenberg Trail and escorted them out to the trailhead and their vehicle. Mrs. Smith had fallen and injured her knee, which slowed the couple’s progress. Stay together when hiking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Saturday, August 25, 2012, at approximately 1:30 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a 17-year-old male hiker needing medical attention. The hiker had been stung by a bee on the trail to Cascade Mountain and was suffering from hives and shivering. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and met the teenager on the trail. His condition had improved and he was able to walk out. The Forest Rangers escorted the teenager to the trailhead where he signed off on medical attention. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of North Elba, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area On Monday, August 27, 2012, at approximately 12:55 a.m., DEC Central Dispatch received a call from State Police reporting an overdue hiker. Elizabeth Elliott, 29, of Albany, NY, had planned to hike Mt. Marcy, Skylight and Gray but had not yet returned home. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and located Ms. Elliott at 1:48 a.m.. Ms. Elliott was hiking with her dog, which had difficulty with the terrain and had to be carried for parts of the trip. The Forest Ranger provided Ms. Elliott with food and water and escorted her out to her vehicle. Know your abilities and the abilities of your hiking partner, including pets; be sure that all are capable of any planned hikes.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Wednesday, August 29, 2012, at approximately 11:00 a.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting an injured hiker. Shelby Lorman, 18, of Los Angeles, CA, was hiking with a group near McIntyre Falls when she fell and hit her head. She was able to get up and walk, however she was having problems with her vision. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and met Ms. Lorman on the trail. She was escorted out of the woods by the Forest Ranger and group leaders. Ms.Lorman refused medical attention on scene but was driven by private vehicle to Adirondack Medical Center in Lake Placid for further care. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Jay, Jay Mountain Wilderness Area On Wednesday, August, 29, 2012, at approximately 8:15 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call transferred from Essex County 911 reporting a lost hiker. Doug March, 62, of Bloomingdale, NY, was hiking on Jay Mountain when he lost the trail. Mr. March reported that he did not have a map, compass or light. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and used cell phone coordinates obtained from Essex County 911 to begin their search. Mr. March was located around midnight in good health. The Forest Rangers escorted him back to his vehicle at 1:20 a.m. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Saturday, September 1, 2012, at approximately 2:00 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a report of a hiker needing assistance. James Ayala, 39, of Buffalo, NY, was hiking Mt. Marcy when he started having difficulty breathing. A DEC Assistant Forest Ranger assisted Mr. Ayala down towards Marcy Da.m.. One DEC Forest Ranger responded, assessed Mr.Ayala and then transported him from Marcy Dam to the South Meadow Trailhead via UTV. Lake Placid A.m.bulance transported Mr. Ayala to Adirondack Medical Center in Lake Placid for further evaluation. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Sunday, September 2, 2012, at approximately 12:00 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a report of an injured hiker. Sue Sung, 19, of Holmdel, NJ, was hiking on the shoreline of Lake Colden when she fell and injured her ankle. She continued on to the Lake Colden Outpost where a DEC Assistant Forest Ranger splinted her ankle and assisted Ms. Sung to Marcy Dam. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and used a UTV to transport Ms. Sung from Marcy Dam to the Adirondack Loj Trailhead. Ms. Sung sought medical attention on her own. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Keene, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Wednesday, September 12, 2012, at approximately 12:55 a.m., DEC Central Dispatch received a call reporting an overdue hiker. Eberhard Burkowski, 78, of Bolton Landing, NY, was had gone hiking for the day from the Garden Trailhead but had not yet returned home. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and began searching the trails. The Forest Ranger noticed a campfire on the Bear Brook Drainage off the Phelps Trail. Mr. Burkowski was found at the campfire in good conditions at approximately 2:55 a.m. While hiking it had become dark and his headlamp was too dim to follow the trail. He began following the Bear Brook drainage. Upon realizing he was lost he stopped and started a fire. The Forest Ranger escorted Mr. Burkowski back out to the trailhead. Always inform someone of your itinerary including an expected return time. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of North Elba, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area On Saturday, September 15, 2012, at approximately 2:49 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a report of a hiker needing medical attention. Marco Berdecia, 36, of Goshen, NY, was hiking Mt. Marcy when he became distressed about half a mile below the summit. Due to the seriousness of Mr. Berdecia’s condition and the remoteness of his location, nine DEC Forest Rangers, three Assistant Forest Rangers, the Marcy Summit Steward along with volunteers from Adirondack Backcountry Rescue and Search & Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK) responded to the incident. High winds prevented the State Police Aviation Unit helicopter from hoisting Mr. Berdecia out that afternoon. Several Forest Rangers and volunteers stabilized Mr. Berdecia and spent the night on Mt. Marcy monitoring and caring for him. Weather conditions were suitable in the morning and at 7:56 a.m. Mr. Berdecia was hoisted into the helicopter and transported to Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake for treatment. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

McKenzie Mountain Wilderness Area On Sunday, September 16, 2012, at approximately 4:35 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a lost hiker. Sharon Stevens, 49, of Saranac Lake, NY, was hiking with her family on Baker Mountain when she was separated from her family on the trail. Three DEC Forest Rangers and one Saranac Lake Police Department Officer responded to the area and began searching the mountain from different sides. At 6:30 p.m., the searchers made voice contact with Ms. Stevens on the back side of the mountain. At 7:15 p.m. she was out of the woods and with the searchers. Ms. Stevens was reunited with her family at the Baker Mountain trailhead at 7:45 p.m. Stay together when hiking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Monday, September 17, 2012, at approximately 11:00 a.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a hiker in need of assistance. Thomas Blackford, 59, of Morrisville, NY, was hiking the Northville-Placid trail when he slipped and fell. Mr. Blackford called his wife and reported that he was having difficulties. Two DEC Forest Rangers and one DEC Environmental Conservation Officer headed down the trail and located Mr. Blackford. He was transported out via ATV to the Averyville trailhead at 3:30 p.m., where his wife met him and brought him to seek private medical attention. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Westport, Split Rock Wild Forest On Sunday, September 23, 2012, at approximately 7:55 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a missing biker. A 16-year-old male from Chazy, NY was out mountain biking with his fa.m.ily on the Split Rock Mountain trails when he beca.m.e separated from the group. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and began searching the trails. At 9:10 p.m., the teenagert was located and returned to his fa.m.ily. He reported that he took a wrong trail and then was overtaken by darkness. Stay together when hiking or biking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of Schroon, Hoffman Notch Wilderness Area On Sunday, September 23, 2012, at approximately 3:50 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a hiker needing medical assistance. Samantha Spears, 25, of Saratoga Springs, NY, was hiking up Severance Hill when she became distressed. Six DEC Forest Rangers and members of the Schroon Lake Rescue, Schroon Lake Volunteer Fire Department and Pottersville Volunteer Fire Department responded. Ms. Spears was carried out to the trailhead and transported to the Glens Falls Hospital by Schroon Lake Rescue for medical treatment. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Schroon, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area On Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at approximately 7:30 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a pair of overdue hikers. David Stillwell, 64, and John Story, 63, both of Clifton Park, NY, were hiking Pharaoh Mountain but had not returned home. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded and began searching the large trail system. Voice contact was made with the two men at 12:08a.m. Forest Rangers located them shortly afterwards at a lean-to on Crane Pond. Mr. Stillwell and Mr. Story had become very tired, so it was decided that they would spend the night and walk out at first daylight. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike.

Franklin County

Town of Harrietstown, Saranac Lake Islands Ca.m.pground On Wednesday, August 15, 2012, at approximately 9:21 a.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a 17-year-old male from Ballston Lake, NY, missing from a campsite at the DEC Saranac Lake Islands Campground on Lower Saranac Lake. The teenager had left the campsite at 8:00 a.m. to go for a walk, without notifying his family. Three DEC Forest Rangers and an Assistant Forest Ranger responded to the water access only campsite. At 11:10 a.m. the teenager was located by family members along the lake shore about 1/2 mile from his campsite. He returned to his campsite in good condition. Always inform someone of your itinerary.

Town of Harrietstown, High Peaks Wilderness Area On Saturday, September 22, 2012, at approximately 3:45 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Franklin County 911 reporting a lost hiker in the Seward Range near Donaldson Mountain. Bernard Hyatt, 43, of Latham, NY, was able to text with Franklin County 911 to give them a general idea of his location. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded and established where Mr. Hyatt had started hiking though the trail registry. At 9:50 p.m., the Forest Rangers heard Mr. Hyatt*s whistle and located him at 10:20 p.m. Mr. Hyatt reported that he had become lost when his cell phone died as he used it to navigate up the trail-less peak on Donaldson Mountain. Mr. Hyatt made a shelter and was prepared to spend the night when he was found. Forest Rangers escorted him back to his vehicle at 12:45 a.m. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Hamilton County

Town of Arietta, West Canada Wilderness Area On Friday, August 10, 2012, at approximately 12:05 a.m., DEC Central Dispatch received a call from the Hamilton County Sheriff*s Office reporting three lost hikers on the Mill Stream. Trail. Maximilia Cervelli, 20, of Glen Gardiner, NJ; Christian Lierena, 19, of Freehold, NJ; and Mark Normanvin, 21, of Robinsville, NJ, were making phone calls to report that they were lost, but the calls were short due to bad reception. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded to the area, located the three hikers and escorted them out of the woods by 6:45a.m. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Town of Indian Lake, Moose River Plains Wild Forest On Wednesday, August 15, 2012, at approximately 9:56 a.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from State Police regarding two overdue hikers. Williams Harkins, 65, of Ilion, NY and Mark Reardun, 56, of Mohawk, NY, were hiking the old snowmobile trails near Little Moose Lake on the previous day and had not returned. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and located the two men in good health on the trail about two miles in. Mr. Harkins and Mr. Reardun reported that they had made a wrong turn during the night and headed south toward Lost Pond. Once they ran out of daylight, they camped on the trail near Lost Pond. They were given water and nourishment and then escorted back to their vehicles. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of Arietta, Ferris Lake Wild Forest On Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at approximately 8:53 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting an overdue hiker. Karen Leiner, 57, of Brooklyn, NY, had left her camp in Piseco to hike either Sand Lake Trail or Fawn Lake Trail. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and located Ms. Leiner*s vehicle at the Sand Lake Trailhead. The Forest Rangers were able to make voice contact with her but had to take cover while a strong storm passed through the area. Ms. Leiner was located about one hour later cold and wet. Forest Rangers escorted her to the trailhead where they were met by the Piseco Volunteer Ambulance. Ms. Leiner was evaluated and released. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Be prepared for all weather conditions.

Town of Inlet, Limekiln State Campground On Friday, August 24, 2012, at approximately 7:49 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Herkimer County 911 reporting four lost hikers behind the Limekiln State Campground. Four girls, age 13 to 15, from Central Square, NY, had mistakenly entered the 9- mile trail system between Third Lake Creek and the campground. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and entered the trail system from one side, while a DEC Environmental Conservation Officer and Town of Webb Police Department Officers entered from another side. At about 9:30p.m., the Webb Police Officers reached the four girls and advised DEC Dispatch that one of them had a minor ankle injury. The Forest Ranger reached the subject shortly after that and with the help of the Old Forge Rescue, used a UTV to evacuate all of the girls. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Washington County

Town of Lake George Wild Forest. On Tuesday, August 21, 2012, at approximately 8:59 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Washington County 911 advising of a lost hiker. Francis Stevens, 74, of Diamond Point, NY, had left Commission Point at 4 p.m. to hike in the direction of Black Mountain and was now overdue. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded. One Forest Ranger took a boat from Green Island to Commission Point to interview the family. Two DEC Forest Rangers searched via the Knapp Estate. At 1:30 a.m., voice contact was made with Mr. Stevens and he was located soon after. The Forest Rangers transported Mr. Stevens by boat to Commission Point where he was reunited with his family by 2:15 a.m. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Warren County

Town of Bolton, Lake George Wild Forest. On Sunday, August 5, 2012, at approximately 9:51 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from a hiking party on the Tongue Mountain Range requesting assistance. Adam Doin, 20, of Ballston Lake, NY; Zachary Hommel, 21, of Malta, NY; and Abigail Marine, 22, of Hudson Falls, NY, were hiking on the Northwest Bay of Lake George but did not have any flashlights. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded, located the group and escorted them back to the trailhead. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of Lake George, Lake George Wild Forest On Sunday, August 12, 2012, at approximately 12:26 p.m., one DEC Forest Ranger responded to a report of an injured hiker on Prospect Mountain. Four other DEC Forest Rangers responded to provide assistance. Cathy Sims, 53, of Allen, TX, had fell backwards off a rock and sustained injuries to her head and shoulder and bruises and lacerations to the legs and head. Ms. Sims was carried out to Lake George Emergency Squad ambulance and transported to Glens Falls hospital. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Lake George, Prospect Mountain. On Friday, August 24, 2012, at approximately 9:00 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting two lost hikers on Prospect Mountain. Moira Reilly, 35, of New York, NY and Michael Traubman, 35, of Forest Hills, NY were hiking on Prospect Mountain when they got lost on the trails and lost daylight. One DEC Forest Ranger responded and, with help from cell phone coordinates obtained from Warren County 911, was able to quickly locate the two hikers. Ms. Reilly and Mr. Traubman were returned to the village of Lake George at 10:15 p.m. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of Bolton, Lake George Wild Forest On Saturday, September 1, 2012, at approximately 6:23 p.m., DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Warren County 911 reporting lost hikers on Tongue Mountain. Jeremy Shiff was hiking with his girlfriend on a trail, however they didn’t know what trail they were on and they didn’t have any gear or flashlights with them. Two DEC Forest Rangers and searched the trail system eventually locating the two lost hikers. Forest Rangers escorted them to Montcalm Point and transported to Green Island via boat. They were taken by boat from there to their vehicle. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Always carry a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

Town of Johnsburg, Private Land. On Sunday, September 2, 2012, at approximately 2:21 p.m., three DEC Forest Rangers responded to a report of an injured swimmer. A 13 year old male from Brant Lake, NY, had injured his knee on private lands in an area that is a popular swimming site near a steep cliff. The Forest Rangers assisted Riverside and North Creek Fire Departments and Johnsburg Emergency Squad personnel with a low-angle technical rope rescue to evacuate the teenager. He was then transported by ambulance to the Glens Falls Hospital. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

DEC: We had to kill moose

This bull moose was shot by DEC in the Ausable River. Photo by Nancie Battaglia.

State officials felt they had no choice but to kill an injured moose that had been hanging out in the Ausable River in Wilmington Notch, according to David Winchell, a spokesman for the Department of Environmental Conservation.

“The primary factor was its deteriorating condition,” Winchell said this morning. “It was not able to move out of there on its own, and the likely outcome would have been its death anyway.”

The bull moose showed up last weekend in a steep ravine on the West Branch of the Ausable. Over the next several days, motorists would stop to gawk at the animal, creating a traffic hazard along the narrow Route 86 corridor. On Saturday, a DEC wildlife technician shot the moose with a paintball gun to try to get it to leave. Although favoring its left leg, the moose was able to move into nearby woods. At the time, DEC thought the animal stood a good chance of recovery.

The next day the moose returned to the ravine. On Monday, DEC shot the animal with rubber buckshot, but it stayed in the river. Winchell said it became apparent that the injuries were more severe than first believed: the moose was having trouble putting weight on its hind legs.

On Tuesday afternoon, after closing the highway, DEC dispatched the moose with a rifle shot. “This is considered one of the quickest, safest, and most humane ways to kill large wildlife,” Winchell said.

Although authorities also had been concerned about the traffic hazard caused by spectators, he added, “it was not the primary factor in the decision-making.”

Given the treacherous nature of the terrain, Winchell said, tranquilizing the moose was not a practical option.  “This would have been dangerous to the animal and the people participating, mainly due to the steep slopes, the large rocks, and the water found in that location,” he said. “The moose could have slipped on the rocks and injured itself even more or it could have fallen into the water and drowned before wildlife staff could reach it.”

Winchell said DEC doesn’t know what would have drawn the moose to Wilmington Notch. He noted that it’s hardly ideal moose habitat: “It’s a narrow ravine, very rocky, not a lot of food for the moose, and hard to get around.”

DEC sent the carcass to its wildlife pathology unit outside Albany. It likely will be several weeks before the results of a necropsy are known.

Moose vanished from the Adirondacks more than a century ago, but they have made a strong comeback in recent decades. DEC estimates that there are now eight hundred to a thousand of the large ungulates in the region.

Winchell warned that motorists may see more moose in the coming weeks. “It is that time of year when they start moving around and looking for mates,” he said.

DEC on track to buy Finch lands this year

The state expects to buy the Essex Chain of Lakes this year. Photo by Carl Heilman II.

The state is on track to buy more than nineteen thousand acres of former Finch, Pruyn lands by the end of the year, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

Karyn Richards of DEC’s Division of Lands and Forests outlined the department’s plans to the Adirondack Park Agency on Thursday afternoon.

Over the next five years, she said, the state will purchase sixty-nine thousand acres from the Adirondack Nature Conservancy for $49.8 million. The land will be purchased in four stages and added to the forever-wild Forest Preserve.

In the first stage, DEC will acquire the 18,318-acre Essex Chain Tract and the 944-acre Outer Gooley Tract. The larger parcel contains a series of connected ponds for paddling. The smaller parcel is located at the confluence of the Hudson and Indian rivers and will serve as a takeout for trips down the Hudson starting in Newcomb.

All told, the lands to be acquired in the first stage contain eleven lakes and ponds, 14.7 miles of Hudson shoreline, and 8.5 miles of Cedar River shoreline.

However, even if the state buys the land this year, most of it will not be open to the public until next fall.

When the Nature Conservancy purchased the Finch, Pruyn lands, it agreed to allow hunting clubs to continue leasing tracts of timberlands through 2018. The annual leases can be modified to allow public access; however, in the case of the Essex Chain Tract, the changes in the leases will not take effect until next fall.

Conservancy spokeswoman Connie Prickett said some land along the Hudson—including the takeout at the Indian River—is not leased the public and will be open to the public earlier.

Lands to be acquired in the other stages are:

• Boreas Ponds, 22,081 acres that includes Boreas Pond, Boreas Mountain, and Ragged Mountain.
• MacIntyre Works, 11,950 acres, including ten miles of Hudson shoreline and 13.5 miles of Opalescent River shoreline.
• Southern & Smaller Parcels, 15,865 scattered parcels, including OK Slip Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Adirondacks, and two miles of Hudson shoreline.

Richards said DEC doesn’t know which lands will be purchased next.

Click here to read a detailed account of the Finch, Pruyn deal in the September/October issue of the Adirondack Explorer.

Ranger Report for June-July 2012

Following is the Forest Ranger report for June and July.

DEC REGION 5 FOREST RANGER’S JUNE/JULY SEARCH AND RESCUE REPORT

ESSEX COUNTY

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Thursday, June 7, 2012, at about 9:11 am, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting an injured hiker at Marcy Dam. Melis Bursin, 28, of New York City, NY, had injured her ankle. The DEC Marcy Dam Caretaker assisted the woman stabilizing the injury. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and transported Ms. Bursin by UTV to the trailhead at 10:20 pm. Ms. Burstin sought medical attention on her own. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Keene, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Friday, June 8, 2012, at about 1:25 am, DEC Central Dispatch received a call reporting two overdue hikers. Kathleen Gavin, 20, and Ernesto Perez, 26, both of New York City, NY, had planned a day hike of the Wolfjaw-Gothics Loop and were expecting to return that evening. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and found their vehicle still located at the St. Hubert*s parking lot where they had signed in the trail registry. Four more DEC Forest Rangers responded to assist in the search. The pair of hikers was located at 6:30 am in good condition, although very tired. They had taken a wrong turn and eventually found their way to the John*s Brook Lodge. Forest Rangers escorted them to the Garden Trailhead at 8:43 am. They were given a courtesy ride back to their vehicle. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Town of Wilmington, High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Friday, June 8, 2012, at about 10:32 am, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Essex County 911 reporting a person who had injured his legs jumping in The Flume on the West Branch Ausable River. Four DEC Forest Rangers, Wilmington Fire and Rescue and Lake Placid Fire and Rescue all responded to the scene. Timothy McCaffrey, 28, of Port Henry, NY, was packaged and airlifted via Life Flight to Fletcher Allen Hospital. Know your abilities and the area you plan to recreate.

Town of Keene, Dix Mountain Wilderness Area

On Sunday, June 10, 2012, at about 2:44 pm a DEC Forest Ranger on patrol came upon a motorcycle accident on Route 73 in the town of Keene. Gregory Pruer, 37, of Wantaugh, NY and his passenger were seriously injured in the accident. The Forest Ranger secured the scene and called DEC Ray Brook Dispatch for additional emergency response resources. Keene Valley Fire and Rescue and the State Police responded to the scene. Mr. Pruer was packaged and transported to Marcy Field where State Police Aviation flew him to Fletcher Allen Hospital. The passenger on the motorcycle was packaged and transported to Elizabethtown Community Hospital. Forest Rangers have police officer status and are first responders.

Town of Schroon, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area

On Friday, June 15, 2012, at about 7:11 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from a DEC Assistant Forest Ranger reporting an injured person. Robert Johnson, 23, of Bloomington, MN, was working as a member of the Student Conservation Association Adirondack Program*s Trail Crew when he fell and was unable to bear any weight on his leg. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and assisted Mr. Johnson out to the trailhead, where he was able to drive himself to Glens Falls Hospital for evaluation. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Saturday, June 16, 2012, at about 9:55 pm, a DEC Forest Ranger on routine patrol near Marcy Dam encountered a distressed hiker. Jacob Kwiatkoski, 20, of Fort Plains, NY, appeared to be severely dehydrated. Two more DEC Forest Forests and an Assistant Forest Ranger responded. Mr. Kwiatkowski was evacuated to South Meadows Road on UTV via the Marcy Truck Trail. They were met by Lake Placid Ambulance who transported the young man to the Adirondack Medical Center for medical evaluation and treatment. Drink plenty of water and rest often when hiking, particular during hot weather.

Town of North Elba, McKenzie Mountain Wilderness

On Monday, June 18, 2012, at about 5:13 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Ashley Jones, 53, of Willow Peak, PA, stating that she was lost near the base of Baker Mountain. Ms. Jones and her two children, a 12 year old boy and 14 year old girl, had hiked over the east side of the mountain to the shores of North Bay of McKenzie Pond. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and boated across the pond to North Bay. The family was located and transported back to shore. They were provided a courtesy ride back to their vehicle at the Baker Mountain Trailhead. Know the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Town of North Elba, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Sunday, June 24, 2012, at about 2:04 pm, a DEC Assistant Forest Ranger (AFR) was notified by a passing hiker of an injured hiker near the Uphill Brook lean-to. At about 2:20 pm the AFR located Margaret McGrath, 57, of Kingston, NY. Ms. McGrath had hiked Marcy, Grey and Skylight Mountains with her hiking party when she rolled her ankle at 12:30pm near the Uphill Brook lean-to. The AFR splinted Ms. McGrath*s ankle and assisted her to the Lake Colden Outpost. They then rowed across Avalanche Lake where they were met by another DEC Forest Ranger on a UTV. Ms. McGrath was taken to the Adirondack Loj Trailhead at 7:25pm. She was released to seek further medical assistance on her own. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Newcomb, Dix Mountain Wilderness Area

On Sunday, June 24, 2012, at about 9:30 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting two overdue hikers. Thomas Cummings, 66, and Daria Cummings, 36, both of Monroe, CT, left the Schroon Lake Bed and Breakfast at 6:00am to climb Cliff and Redfield Mountains via the Upper Works Trailhead. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and found the overdue hikers vehicles at the trailhead. The Forest Ranger came across the pair walking out on their own near the trailhead. They reported they had been delayed due to the weather. Both were in good condition. Always inform someone of your itinerary.

Town of Wilmington, McKenzie Mountain Wilderness

On Sunday, July 1, 2012, at about 8:27pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting an injured hiker on the Connery Pond Trail near Whiteface Landing. Bridget Ness, 23, of Lake Worth, FL, was hiking at dusk when she fell, striking her knee on a rock. She was not carrying a light or a map. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and located Ms. Ness at about 9:45 pm. Ms. Ness was able to walk back to the trailhead with assistance from the Forest Ranger. She was returned to her vehicle at 10:25 pm declining further medical assistance. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Carry a flashlight or headlamp at all times.

Town of North Elba, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness

On Sunday, July 1, 2012, at about 2:42 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook was notified by the Cascade Summit Steward of a woman on the trail with an injured ankle. Yoseph Middleton, 38, of Montreal, Quebec, was about a quarter mile from the summit when she fell and injured her ankle. She was unable to bear any weight on the ankle. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded along with State Police Aviation from Lake Clear. Ms. Middleton was picked up from the summit and taken to Adirondack Medical Center in Lake Placid at 4:30 pm. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of North Elba, High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Tuesday, July 3, 2012, at about 9:25 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Shawn Kilty, 41, and Tanya Hedlund, age unknown, both of New York City, NY. The pair reported they had hiked Phelps Mountain but had lost their way coming down. They had a map and headlamps, but no compass to orient them. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and were able to make cell phone contact with Mr. Kilty and Ms. Hedlund. The pair described the areas they had hiked and were instructed to return to the bridge they had previously crossed. At 11:20 pm they called the Forest Ranger stating that they were at the *High Water Bridge* on the VanHoevenberg Trail. At 11:30pm, the Marcy Dam Interior Caretaker located the pair at the bridge in good condition.They were escorted to Marcy Dam and pointed them in the right direction back to the Adirondack Loj Trailhead. Know the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Town of Jay, Jay Mountain Wilderness Area

On Monday, July 9, 2012, at about 1:00 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Essex County 911 reporting an injured hiker on Jay Mountain. Linda Siciliano, 53, of Staten Island, NY, was hiking Jay Mountain when she slipped and fell injuring her ankle. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded, stabilized Ms. Siciliano ankle, packaged her and carried her back to the trailhead. They were met by Wilmington Ambulance who transported her to Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital in Plattsburgh for further medical treatment. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Keene, Giant Mountain Wilderness Area

On Tuesday, July 10, 2012, at about 4:12 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Essex County 911 reporting a hiker in need of medical attention on the summit of Giant Mountain. A 16 year old female from Ithaca, NY, was hiking with her aunt when she became distressed. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded to the scene along with State Police Aviation. The teenage girl was hoisted off the mountain to Marcy Field in Keene Valley. She was transported by Keene Valley Rescue to Elizabethtown Hospital for treatment at 5:52pm. Two Forest Rangers escorted the rest of the hiking party off the mountain and back to their vehicles at the trailhead. Drink plenty of water and rest often when hiking, particular during hot weather.

Town of St Armand, McKenzie Mountain Wilderness

On Wednesday, July 11, 2012, at about 3:50 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Essex County 911 reporting a hiker in need of medical attention on the summit of Baker Mountain. A 12 year old boy from Watertown, NY, was in distress. A DEC Forest Ranger responded with members of the Saranac Lake Fire Department and Rescue Squad. The boy was treated and carried out to the trailhead. The Rescue Squad transported him to Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake from there. Drink plenty of water and rest often when hiking, particular during hot weather.

Town of North Elba, Eastern High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Saturday, July 14, 2012, at about 5:00 pm, a DEC Assistant Forest Ranger (AFR) at the Lake Colden Outpost received a report of a hiker who had been separated from his hiking partner. George Shields, 53, of Lewisburg, PA, was hiking Mt. Marshall via Herbert Brook with his son. They became separated at about 2:00 pm and Mr. Shields had not been seen since. The AFR, assisted by two Student Conservation Association Backcountry Stewards, searched the nearby trails into the night without locating Mr. Shields. Plans were made for five DEC Forest Rangers begin searching from the Upper Works and Adirondack Trailheads at 6:00 am the following morning. At about 1:54 am, Mr. Shields arrived at the Lake Colden Outpost by his own efforts. He was suffering from a number of injuries including cuts and scrapes on his legs. The AFR applied first aid and in the morning assisted Mr. Shields to Avalanche Lake. A Forest Ranger met them there with a UTV and transported him the trailhead. Mr. Shields drove himself to the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake for further medical treatment. Stay together when hiking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of Willsboro, Private Property

On July 24, 2012, at about 11:23 am, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook was notified by State Police of three lost hikers on Rattlesnake Mountain. Karen Curtin, 56, and Catherine Curtin, 20, both of Plattsburgh, NY, and Justin Curtin, 19, of Newport Ritchie, FL, were hiking when two of them were stung by bees. Two DEC Forest Rangers and State Police responded to locate the three hikers. While in route, DEC Dispatch was able to contact by phone and learned they had begun moving on their own. They came upon a dirt road which they followed until they found a seasonal camp. The three were met there and transported back to the place they were staying. Know the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

Town of Brighton, Private Land

On Saturday, June 16, 2012, at about 4:11 pm, a DEC Forest Ranger was contacted directly and informed of a distressed hiker on Paul Smith College*s VIC property. The Forest Ranger responded and located Donna Pepin, 48, of Mooers, NY, on the trail between Black Pond and Long Pond Trail. The Forest Ranger gave Ms. Pepin fluids and food. She was then escorted back to the parking area and reunited with her family. Drink plenty of water, eat food to keep up your energy and rest often, especially during hot weather.

Town of Harrietstown, Saranac Lake Wild Forest

On Sunday, June 24, 2012, at about 8:10 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting an overdue hiker near Shingle Bay Mountain, north of Lower Saranac Lake. Casey Michaels, 24, of Saranac Lake, NY, had been hiking with a group but became separated at about 5:00 pm. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded and searched for Mr. Michaels without success until 1:00 am. At 7am, searching resumed with eight additional DEC Forest Rangers and a team from Search and Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK). Mr. Michaels was located at 9:00 am near Black Pond. He reported that after becoming separated from his group he built a campfire and stayed for the night. At day break Mr. Michaels began to walk out but became cold. He stopped and built another campfire to keep warm. Forest Rangers found him huddled by the campfire and in good condition. They escorted Mr. Michaels out of the woods and he needed no further assistance. All personnel were clear of the search by 10:30am. Have the skills, knowledge and equipment to spend an unexpected night in the woods.

Town of Harrietstown, High Peaks Wilderness Area

On Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at about 3:45pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a hiker with an ankle injury near the summit of Ampersand Mountain. Julie Shahin, 53, of Rochester, NY, was able to move but was still in need of assistance. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded reaching Ms. Shahin at 5:50 pm. The Forest Rangers applied a splint to her injured ankle and assisted her down the mountain reaching the trailhead at 7:10 pm. Ms. Shahin sought medical attention on her own. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Harrietstown, Saranac Lake Wild Forest

On Sunday, July 22, 2012, at about 9:23 am, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a boater in need of medical assistance. Ruth Kuhfahl, 88, of Keene Valley, NY, had been incapacitated and overturned her canoe on Middle Saranac Lake. Two DEC Forest Rangers and Saranac Lake Fire and Rescue responded. Ms. Kuhfahl was had been brought to a water access only private camp where she was met by the emergency responders. She was evacuated by boat to the South Creek water access site and placed into Saranac Lake Rescue Squad ambulance. Ms. Kuhfahl was transported to the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake for evaluation and treatment. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

HAMILTON COUNTY

Town of Indian Lake, Siamese Pond Wilderness Area

On Thursday, June 7, 2012, at about 11:30 pm, DEC Central Dispatch received a call from a person concerned about a car in the Chimney Mountain Trailhead parking lot after 10:00 pm. A check of its license plates determined that it was owned by John Keck 28, of Jersey City, NJ. An hour later New York State Police confirmed the car was still in the parking lot. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded to the trailhead and reviewed of the trail registry. They learned that Mr. Keck and a second person had signed in indicating they planned to go to Eagle Cave on a day trip. The Forest Rangers checked the cave and the summit, eventually locating Mr. Keck and a 15 year old male from Quarrville, PA in a designated campsite below the summit. After signing in the pair had decided to camp and explore the cave the following day. Having ensured Mr. Keck and the teenage were safe and not in any distress the Forest Rangers returned to their vehicles. Always inform someone of your itinerary. Always sign in and out of trailhead registers.

Town of Indian Lake, Sargent Pond Wild Forest

On Thursday, June 21, 2012, at 9:25 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Hamilton County 911 advising of a group of 8 adults lost on Castle Rock Mountain north of Blue Mountain Lake.  Laura Gates, 33, Joannie Lombardi, 33, Kent Walding, 43, Tony Lopez, 36, Holly Sheriff, 45, Zack Cocayne, 38, and Calma Edwards, 50, had been hiking with Carol VanDersen, 51, of Highland, IL, who had injured her knee and was unable to walk. The group was advised to build a fire and stay put. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded and, spotting the campfire, located the group about 1 mile from the trailhead. Forest Rangers escorted the group back to the trailhead helping Ms. VanDersen to walk out. Upon reaching the trailhead Ms. VanDersen indicated she would seek medical treatment on her own. Know your abilities and the area you plan to hike. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Carry a flashlight or headlamp at all times.

Town of Arietta, Ferris Lake Wild Forest

On Friday, June 22, 2012, at about 3:42 am, DEC Central Dispatch received a call reporting an injured camper who was struck on the head by a small tree. John Perkins, 24, of Webster, NY, was conscious, but experiencing a lot of pain. Mr. Perkins was at a remote campsite along the Powley Piseco Road. A DEC Forest Ranger and the Piseco Emergency Medical Services responded evacuating Mr. Perkins from his campsite at 4:50am. He was transported via ambulance to Gloversville and from there by helicopter to Albany Medical Center. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Arietta, West Canada Lake Wilderness

On Wednesday, June 27, 2012, at about 2:30 am, DEC Central Dispatch received a call reporting that two family members hiking the Northville-Placid Trail had not reported in as scheduled. Tim Jones, 54, of Binghamton, NY, and his 15 year old son had sent a Spot Locator message on Monday indicating they had arrived at Spruce Lake and were on schedule. No message was received on Tuesday night and the caller was concerned about their safety. At 6:30 am, a DEC Forest Ranger responded and began hiking into the second lean-to on the Cedar Lakes, the hiker*s intended destination for the previous night. The Forest Ranger arrived at the lean-to at 11:45 am and found no sign of the father and son. The Forest Ranger continued south on the Northville Placid Trail searching for the pair. Four additional Forest Rangers and a float plane were assigned to assist the search effort. At 12:50pm first Forest Ranger located Mr. Jones and his son in good condition near the third lean-to on the Cedar Lakes in good condition. According to Mr. Jones, they were behind schedule and spent the night at South Lake. He had sent a Spot Locator message the previous night with their location, but it was never recorded on their home computer. The father and son continued their hike of the Northville-Placid Trail. Always inform someone of your itinerary. Use technology to keep safe when hiking, but remember it is not infallible.

Town of Indian Lake, Sargent Pond Wild Forest

On Wednesday, July 4, 2012, at 5:41 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a lost hiker in an area north of Blue Mountain Lake. Darwin Fishman, 42, of Coran, NY, was descending Castle Rock when he lost the trail. A DEC Forest Ranger responded and located Mr. Fishman in good condition about a half mile from the trailhead at about 6:13 pm. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

Town of Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Wild Forest

On Thursday, July 5, 2012, at about 3:26 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Hamilton County 911 reporting an injured hiker near the summit of Blue Mountain. Christian Hall, 18, of Potterspine, GA, fell and injured an ankle while descending from the summit. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded to the scene to assess the person*s injuries while State Police Aviaton responded from Lake Clear with another Forest Ranger. Mr. Hall was air lifted from the summit of the mountain to Blue Mountain Lake at 5:20 pm. He was taken by private vehicle to seek further medical attention. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

WARREN COUNTY

Town of Bolton, Lake George Wild Forest

On Wednesday, June 20, 2012, at about 2:11 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Warren County 911 reporting a distressed hiker on the Tongue Mountain Range. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and located Rebecca Cariati, 28, of Glenmont, NY near French Point Mountain.Due to the extreme temperatures and the complex nature of her symptoms the Forest Rangers determined that she should be airlifted. Personnel from Lower Adirondack Wilderness Medical Rescue Team also responded and began treating Ms. Cariati. A State Police Aviation Unit helicopter picked up Ms. Cariati and transported her to the Warren County airfield. She was met there by an ambulance and taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Drink plenty of water, eat food to keep up your energy and rest often,  especially during hot weather.

Town of Horicon, Lake George Wild Forest

On Saturday, July 21, 2012, at about 1:07 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Warren County 911 reporting a lost hiker. Alena Gawronski, 32, of Glendale, NY, stated that she left Pilgrim Camp in the town of Horicon hiking on the red trail. She lost the trail and had been off trail for about two hours. Three DEC Forest Rangers responded and were able to locate her based on her cell phone coordinates and the location description provided. Ms. Gawronski was located and escorted out of the woods by 1:37 pm. Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Town of Fort Ann, Private Land

On Wednesday, July 4, 2012, at about 3:20 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call reporting a lost hiker. Joshua Heid, 18, of Neehah, WI, was hiking around Crossett Lake in Ft. Ann but had separated from his hiking party. Two DEC Forest Rangers responded and were able to make contact with Mr. Heid via cell phone. The Forest Rangers provided him directions and he was able to exit the woods on his own. Mr. Heid was provided a courtesy ride to return to the rest of the hiking party. Stay together when hiking in groups and know the location of all group members at all times.

Town of Fort Ann, Lake George Wild Forest

On Wednesday, July 4, 2012, at about 4:12 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a report of an injured hiker on the Sleeping Beauty Trail. One DEC Forest Ranger and the West Fort Ann Fire Department responded. Adrian Gough, 63, of Lake George, NY, was located about a half mile from the trailhead. The Forest Ranger and Fire Department personnel stabilized Mr. Gough*s injuries. He was evacuated to the trailhead and transported by West Fort Ann Fire Department Ambulance to Glens Falls Hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Accidents can happen. Always carry a first aid kit and contact the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235 in backcountry emergencies.

Town of Fort Ann, Lake George Wild Forest

On Monday, July 16, 2012, at about 12:45 pm, DEC Dispatch in Ray Brook received a call from Washington County 911 reporting a hiker needing medical attention. Yarden Fischer, 27, of East Brunswick, NJ, was in distress near Buck Mountain on the Pilot Knob Trail. North Queensbury Rescue and Pilot Knob Fire Department responded providing initial treatment and evacuating Mr. Fischer by ATV to the trailhead. Two DEC Forest Rangers also responded providing assistance at the trailhead.Emergency responders arrived at the trailhead with Mr. Fischer at 3:00 pm. He was arrived placed in North Queensbury Rescue ambulance and transported a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Drink plenty of water, eat food to keep up your energy and rest often, especially during hot weather.

DEC changes fishing regulations

Changes in the state’s fishing regulations will take effect October 12, as a result of an evaluation of biological data and input from anglers, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

Several of the changes affect waters in the Adirondacks. These regulations will:

Walleye. Prohibit fishing in the Lake Pleasant outlet to the mouth of the Kunjamuk River from March 16 until the first Saturday in May (opening day for walleye) to protect spawning walleye.

Trout and salmon. Open Lake Kushaqua and Rollins Pond to ice fishing for lake trout. Open Blue Mountain Lake, Eagle Lake, Forked Lake, Gilman Lake, South Pond, and Utowana Lake to ice fishing for landlocked salmon and reduce the daily limit for lake trout in these waters from three per day to two per day. Delete the catch-and-release regulation for trout in the Jordan River from Carry Falls Reservoir upstream to Franklin County line.

Ice fishing and baitfish. Eliminate special ice-fishing regulation for Square Pond in Franklin County. Allow ice fishing on specific waters currently deemed as trout waters in the counties of Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, and St. Lawrence Counties. Provide for ice fishing at privately managed Salmon Pond in Hamilton County.

Click the PDF link below to read DEC’s news release and find links to more information.

DEC fishing regulatons

Spiny water flea found in Lake George

The spiny water flea, an invasive species, has been found in Lake George, just weeks after its discovery in the Champlain Canal, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

A native of Eurasia, the flea feeds on crustaceans and other zooplankton, putting the invader in direct competition with native fish and other aquatic organisms.

Spiny water flea. Photo from Wikipedia.

After the flea was found in the Champlain Canal, Vermont officials called upon New York State to close the canal to prevent the invader from reaching Lake Champlain. So far, New York has refused to do so.

“DEC has worked with its partners on the Lake Champlain Basin Task Force to stop and slow the spread of the spiny water flea,” DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said in a news release today. “The discovery of spiny water flea in Lake George is not welcome news and DEC’s efforts to slow the spread of this and other invasive species will continue.”

The full text of the department’s new release follows.

ALBANY, NY (08/01/2012) — The presence of the spiny water flea, an aquatic invasive species, was confirmed in Lake George, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced today.

“DEC has worked with its partners on the Lake Champlain Basin Task Force to stop and slow the spread of the spiny water flea,” DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said. “The discovery of spiny water flea in Lake George is not welcome news and DEC’s efforts to slow the spread of this and other invasive species will continue.”

Earlier this week the Lake Champlain Basin Aquatic Invasive Species Rapid Response Task Force released seven recommendations to slow the spread of spiny water flea into Lake Champlain, which includes redirecting the flow of the Champlain Canal into the Hudson River and furthering a feasibility study for a hydraulic barrier between the Champlain Canal and Lake Champlain.

“DEC fully supports the recommendations of the Task Force and will work with the state of Vermont and our other partners to implement the Task Force’s recommendations,” Commissioner Martens said. “Boaters and anglers also have a major role in slowing the spread of invasive species. All boating, fishing and recreation equipment must be cleaned and disinfected, to prevent spreading invasive species to other water bodies.”

The Task Force is made up of representatives from New York state, Vermont and Canada. The Task Force’s report recognizes that the closure of the Champlain Canal and the Glens Falls Feeder Canal is not technically, legally or economically feasible.

The discovery of spiny water flea in Lake George provides another pathway for the invasive species to enter Lake Champlain via the LaChute River. Lake George is not connected to the State Canal System.

The presence of spiny water flea was confirmed through sampling efforts by the Lake George Association on Tuesday, July 31. The samples were taken to the Darrin Fresh Water Institute where four spiny water fleas were identified.

“Right now the Commission’s top priority is invasive species control and management, and we will work with our many partners on determining the extent of this population,” Dave Wick, Executive Director of the Lake George Park Commission, said. “The Commission is currently developing a comprehensive invasive species prevention plan for Lake George, with the goal of preventing any new invasive occurrences from entering the lake.”

The possible presence of the spiny water flea was first reported on Friday, July 27 by an invasive species steward at DEC’s Mossy Point Boat Launch near the north end of the lake. A fisherman had reported having a clump of small organisms on his fishing line after spending time trolling the waters off Mallory Island along the east shore of the lake.

The steward took a sample and provided it to the Lake George Association, who passed it on to the Darrin Fresh Water Institute. After the organisms were identified as spiny water fleas the Lake George Association sampled the waters off Mallory Island and further confirmed its presence.

The invasive pest was previously confirmed in the Great Sacandaga Lake in 2008, Peck Lake in 2009, Stewarts Bridge Reservoir 2010, Sacandaga Lake in 2010 and most recently this summer in the Champlain Canal and Glens Falls Feeder Canal.

Background on Spiny Water Flea

Native to Eurasia, the spiny water flea feeds on tiny crustaceans and other zooplankton that are foods for fish and other native aquatic organisms, putting them in direct competition for this important food source. The tail spines of the spiny water flea hook on fishing lines and foul fishing gear.

Spiny water fleas can impact aquatic life in lakes and ponds due to their rapid reproduction rates. In warmer water temperatures these water fleas can hatch, grow to maturity, and lay eggs in as little as two weeks. Conversely, “resting” eggs of spiny water fleas can remain dormant for long periods of time prior to hatching.

While it is not clear when or how the spiny water flea was introduced into the lakes, it is clear that the initial introduction, and very likely the others as well, were through adult, larvae or eggs being transported to the waters by bait bucket, bilge water, live well, boat, canoe, kayak, trailer or fishing equipment.

Currently, there are no successful means to control or eradicate this and many other aquatic invasive species, so preventing their spread is the only means for reducing their impacts on native aquatic communities. It is very important that boats, anglers and other recreational enthusiasts take precautions to avoid transporting this and other invasive species, particularly after leaving water known to have an aquatic invasive species.

Prevent the Spread of Spiny Water Flea

INSPECT & CLEAN your fishing, boating and other water recreation equipment and gear. Remove all mud, plants and other organisms that might be clinging to them when leaving waters, especially those that are known to contain an aquatic invasive species.

DRY your fishing and boating equipment before using it on another body of water. Drying is the most effective “disinfection” mechanism and is least likely to damage sensitive equipment and clothing. All fishing and boating equipment, clothing and other gear should be dried completely before moving to another body of water. This may take a week or more depending upon the type of equipment, where it is stored and weather conditions. A basic rule of thumb is to allow at least 48 hours for drying most non-porous fishing and boating gear at relative humidity levels of 70 percent or less.

DISINFECT your fishing and boating equipment if it cannot be dried before its use in another body of water. Disinfection recommendations vary depending on the type of equipment and disease of concern. Be particularly aware of bilge areas, live wells and bait wells in boats. These areas are difficult to dry and can harbor invasive species.

See the DEC website for more information on invasive species and how you can stop their spread: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/265.html.

USGS Spiny Water Flea Fact Sheet: http://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.asp?speciesID=162.

Permalink: http://readme.readmedia.com/Spiny-Water-Flea-Confirmed-in-Lake-George/4762932

Online petition for Forest Preserve acquisitions

The Cedar River flows through lands leased by the Gooley Club. Photo by Carl Heilman II.

Protect the Adirondacks, the Adirondack Mountain Club, the Adirondack Council, and other green groups have started an online petition to encourage the state not to back out of an agreement to purchase sixty-five thousand acres of former Finch, Pruyn lands for the Forest Preserve.

In its petition, the environmentalists contend that “a small but vocal group” is pressuring Governor Andrew Cuomo and the state Department of Environmental Conservation to keep the lands in private ownership.

“This proposal undermines a carefully balanced project that is a sound investment both in the local economy and in the environment and in the ecological integrity of the Adirondack Park,” the petition asserts.

The Adirondack Nature Conservancy bought all 161,000 acres owned by Finch, Pruyn in 2007. It has since sold ninety-two thousand acres to a Danish pension fund, subject to easements that prohibit development and allow some public access.

Many local leaders argue that most of the lands earmarked for the Forest Preserve should follow the easement model, thus allowing forestry to continue and hunting camps to remain.

Members of the Gooley Club have been among the most adamant opponents of deal. The club is located near the Essex Chain of Lakes, which is slated to enter the Preserve. George Earl wrote about the club’s fight in article that appeared in the Adirondack Explorer in 2011. Click here to read that story.

Other natural gems that would become part of the Preserve include the Boreas Ponds, a long stretch of the Hudson River, OK Slip Falls, and Sugarloaf Mountain, a potential rock-climbing venue.

DEC officials have repeatedly said that they have no intention of backing out of the deal.

Other sponsors of the petition include Adirondack Wild, Audubon, and the Sierra Club. They intend to present the petition to governor and DEC later this year.

The petition has been online for a few months, but the council sent out an “action alert” this afternoon, asking people to sign up by Monday, August 6. Scott Lorey, the council’s legislative director, said the drive is winding down. To date, the online petition has gathered more than 4,900 signatures.

Click here to add your name to the petition.