Saturday, October 30, 2010

The end is in sight

The end is in sight. No, I'm not talking about the end of the earth. I'm talking about one of the most, if not the most, disgusting election seasons ever.

I am totally sick of all the ads, even from those I will probably vote for. I haven't answered the phone in weeks when my caller ID even hints it might be someone taking a poll or asking me to vote for their candidate. Email and snail mail that says anything about the election is deleted or tossed without taking a look.

I'm to the point where I really don't care who wins. I predict, whoever wins will soon come to regret their victory. They will find themselves in the same boat the current incumbents now find themselves in and the voters will again be as made as hell by the time the next election rolls around.

Why? Because we seem to have lost the ability to discuss almost anything without going off the deep end. Democracy requires some civility and there is very little civility around today.

The solution. I guess the only solution is to start on the one to one level and gradually work out in an expanding circle. Some trickle down civility from those in office and those seeking office would help too.

2010-2011 Winter Forecast

2010-2011 Winter Forecast

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Amazon.com: Peter Klein: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle

Pete Klein was born and raised in Detroit, Mich. where he attended Notre Dame High, Harper Woods. After high school, Pete joined the US Navy and served as a Corpsman in New Port, RI, and Long Beach, CA. After receiving an Honorable Discharge, it was back to Detroit for a year before moving to NYC to attend The American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Klein says, "I lived in New York at the right time (mid 60's) in the Lower East Side (East Village) and enjoyed discovering the city and myself.
In 1968 Klein married. In 71 he moved upstate where he raised his family and worked in the automotive… Read more(please enable JavaScript to read more)

" + "Peter Klein Biography" + "

Amazon.com: Peter Klein: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle

Amazon.com: Peter Klein: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle

Speak Up for Wolves in the Great Lakes Region

Speak Up for Wolves in the Great Lakes Region

For Bats, the Future Is Spooky

For Bats, the Future Is Spooky

Help Save Mt. Lemmon's Ancient Trees

Help Save Mt. Lemmon's Ancient Trees

Adirondack Almanack: Guest Commentary From APA Chair Curt Stiles

Adirondack Almanack: Guest Commentary From APA Chair Curt Stiles

Friday, October 22, 2010

ESO - eso1041e - The era of reionisation (artist’s impression

The era of reionisation (artist’s impression)

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Astronomers using ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT) have measured the distance to the most remote galaxy so far, UDFy-38135539, which we see as it was when the Universe was only about 600 million years old (a redshift of 8.6). At this early time, the Universe was not fully transparent and much of it was filled with a hydrogen fog that absorbed the fierce ultraviolet light from young galaxies. The period when the fog was still being cleared by this ultraviolet light is known as the era of reionisation, visualised in this artist’s impression. The glow from UDFy-38135539 seems not to be strong enough on its own to clear out the hydrogen fog. There must be other galaxies, probably fainter and less massive nearby companions of UDFy-38135539, which also helped make the space around the galaxy transparent.

Credit:

ESO/L. Calçada

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Are you tired yet?

I don't care what political party or political group you belong to or not. But I think there is at least one thing we can agree upon. Political ads on TV have become really obnoxious.

First, there are just too many. The only way you can get away from them is to watch stations like A&E and Chiller.

Then there are the phone calls that show up as "Unknown" on caller ID. I never pick up the phone for an Unknown caller.

About as aggravating as the ads are the polls and the pundits. Yes, Virginia, we wouldn't have the foggiest idea in who to vote for if we weren't being told by the ads, the polls, pundits and other experts who to vote for.

It's almost enough to make you vote for no one.

Wouldn't it be great if no one showed up to vote except for those who are running for office and they were to learn that not even their families, relatives and friends came out to vote for them?

Are you tired yet? - ravenwolfsmoon's Blog - Blogster

Saturday, October 16, 2010

The Coffee Party

Now that we seem to have a Tea Party, might it be time for their to be a Coffee Party?
Coffee Party people could do the opposite of Tea Party people. Instead of "Wanting our country back," we could offer to give it away to anyone who wants it.
Of course, being the loyal Americans we are, we would be the first in line to accept the gift of this country.
We believe in freedom but it's just that we believe in more freedom than the Tea Party people seem to believe in.
We believe in honest dialog without all the yelling and screaming.
We believe everyone should be free, not just a chosen few who seem to want to exclude people on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, level of economic wealth, etc., etc., etc.
Me being a white Christian obviously means I would include white Christians in the Coffee Party, so long as they don't try to kick everyone else out of the party except for them.
Just to stir the pot and aggravate some spies from the Tea Party, I would be willing to admit prostitutes and drug dealers because they are the true entrepraneurs and have a lot in common with our elected and appointed leaders in both the Democrat and Republican parties.
Yes, you are welcome to join the Coffee Party even if your preferred drink is tea. We Coffee Party people tend not discriminate against anyone.

Ravenwolf Publsihing

The Vampire Valkyrie Part two of The Dancing Valkyrie sagasThe Vampire Valkyrie Part two of The Dancing Valkyrie sagas (book)

Download: $15.99

Hardcover Print: $22.76

"The Vampire Valkyrie" takes off where "The Dancing Valkyrie" concluded and resumes the tale of a young female vampire who just may be the most dangerous vampire in vampire fiction to date. "The Vampire Valkyrie" is the story of a young vampire woman who is an erotic dancer at a topless club she owns in Schenectady, NY. A Schenectady City Councilwoman wants to pass legislation to close down or strictly limit the operation of adult businesses, an a upstate crime boss wants control of Mary and her club and a New York City crime family seeks to discredit the upstate crime boss through Mary and her club. Many people die, both the innocent and the guilty, as a result of Mary's determination to save herself, her girls and her club, while wondering if she should stop being involved with humans and just kill all who infringe upon her freedom as a vampire.

http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=252474

http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=252474
Books, CD, calendar and photos by Pete Klein

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Some thoughts on evolution

Some people don't like evolution. Some even argue that everything was created by God in six day a few thousand years ago.
I ask, You find it difficult to believe that we EVOLVED from an amoeba?"
I don't understand when one considers how we evolve from an egg and sperm over the course of nine months.
An oak tree evolves from an acorn. A tropical depression evolves into a hurricane. A moth becomes a butterfly. Evolution happens every day in thousands of ways.
You start with a letter, add a few more and you form a word. Add some more words and you have a sentence. Sentences form paragraphs and eventually you could even have a book, such as the Bible.
It takes time for something to become what it eventually becomes. It isn't what it becomes until it becomes what it is. The Bible didn't become the Bible until all the books in it were completed and agreed upon.
Does a little bit of steel and plastic become a car? Eventually they could become a car if all the material is processed and refined correctly, and the parts are eventually assembled into the final product.
Oh, no! See where you have forced me to go now? The same might be said of that little egg and sperm. I could argue a human being doesn't exist until the evolutionary process within the woman is completed and she gives birth to a finished product.
Now I know why some people don't like the idea of evolution.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Oct. 7

This announcement is for general use - local conditions may vary and are subject to change.

Listen for the weekly Adirondack Outdoor Conditions Report Friday mornings on WNBZ (AM 920 & 1240, FM 105 & 102.1) and the stations of North Country Public Radio.

The Adirondack Almanack publishes occasional Forest Ranger incident reports which form a stern reminder that wilderness conditions can change suddenly and accidents happen. Be aware of the latest weather conditions and carry adequate gear and supplies.

SPECIAL NOTICES FOR THIS WEEKEND

Fire Danger: LOW

Columbus Day & Canadian Thanksgiving Day Weekend
Visitors to the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness should be aware that trail head parking lots and interior campsites will reach capacity early on this holiday weekend. Plan accordingly, seek backcountry recreation opportunities in other areas of the Adirondack Park. Day hikers should check DEC's list of Trails Outside the High Peaks.

High Waters/Flooding
Heavy rains last week and steady rains this week have kept water levels high. Low water crossings may not be accessible and paddlers should be prepared for high waters. Expect muddy wet, trails through the weekend. Wear appropriate footwear and to stay on the trail - hike through muddy areas and puddles to avoid widening the trails or creating “herd paths” around those areas.

Special Blowdown Notice
Last week’s storm resulted in a good deal of blowdown. Limbs, branches and trees may be found on and across trails, especially on lesser used side trails.

Central Adirondacks Lower Elevation Weather
Friday: Chance of afternoon showers. Partly sunny; high near 61. Breezy.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. Light winds.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy.
Saturday Night: Clear and cold with a low around 25.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 57.

The National Weather Service provides a weather forecast for elevations above 3000 feet and spot forecasts for the summits of a handful of the highest peaks in Clinton, Essex and Franklin counties. [LINK]

Trout Season Ending
Trout season closes October 15 in most places. There are a few exceptions; check the updated 2010-2011 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide for details. Male brook trout are beginning to group together in preparation for the upcoming spawning.

Cooler Weather
Cooler temperatures have arrived in the mountains. Night-time and morning temperatures in the 30s or colder are likely, especially at higher elevations. Pack extra non-cotton clothes, including a hat and gloves.

Darkness Arriving Earlier
Autumn has arrived and daylight hours have decreased. Know when sunset occurs and plan accordingly. Always pack or carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.

Fall Foliage Season
Fall Foliage Season is well underway in the central Adirondacks. For an updated foliage report see the state tourism site's Foliage Report.

GENERAL ADIRONDACK CONDITIONS

Accidents Happen, Be Prepared
Wilderness conditions can change suddenly and accidents happen. Hikers and campers should check up-to-date forecasts before entering the backcountry as conditions at higher elevations will likely be more severe. All users should bring flashlight, first aid kit, map and compass, extra food, plenty of water and clothing. Be prepared to spend an unplanned night in the woods and always inform others of your itinerary.

Motorists Alert: Moose

There are upwards of 800 Moose in the Adirondack region, up from 500 in 2007. Motorists should be alert for moose on the roadways at this time of year especially at dawn and dusk, which are times of poor visibility when Moose are most active. Much larger than deer, moose-car collisions can be very dangerous. Last year ten accidents involving moose were reported. DEC is working to identify areas where moose are present and post warning signs.

Hunting Seasons
Fall hunting seasons for small game, waterfowl and big game have begun or will begin shortly. Hikers should be aware that they may meet hunters bearing firearms or archery equipment while hiking on trails. Recognize that these are fellow outdoor recreationists with the legal right to hunt on Forest Preserve lands. Hunting accidents involving non-hunters are extremely rare. Hikers may want to wear bright colors as an extra precaution.

Motorized Equipment in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas
The use of motorized equipment in lands classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe is prohibited. Public use of small personal electronic or mechanical devices such as cameras, radios or GPS receivers are not affected this regulation.

Storage of Personal Belongings on State Land
Placing structures or personal property on state land without authorization from DEC is prohibited. Exceptions include: properly placed and labeled geocaches; legally placed and tagged traps, tree stands and blinds. The full regulation regarding the use of motorized equipment on state lands may be found online; the regulation regarding the structures and storage of personal property is also online.

Firewood Ban
Due to the possibility of spreading invasive species that could devastate northern New York forests (such as Emerald Ash Borer, Hemlock Wooly Adeljid and Asian Longhorn Beetle), DEC prohibits moving untreated firewood more than 50 miles from its source. Forest Rangers have begun ticketing violators of this firewood ban. More details and frequently asked questions at the DEC website.

Do Not Feed Bears
Recently a forest ranger shot and killed a bear that was harassing campers at the Eight Lake State Campground near Inlet. Wildlife biologists believe the yearling had been fed by campers and grown not to fear people. Eight problem bears were killed in the Adirondacks last summer.

Bear-Resistant Canisters
The use of bear-resistant canisters is required for overnight users in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness between April 1 and November 30. All food, toiletries and garbage must be stored in bear resistant canisters; the use of bear-resistant canisters is encouraged throughout the Adirondacks.

Low Impact Campfires
Reduce the impact on natural areas by utilizing lightweight stoves, fire pans, mound fires or other low impact campfire techniques. Use only dead or small downed wood that can be broken by hand and keep fires small. Leave hatchets, axes and saws at home. Never leave a fire unattended, don't burn garbage, and restore the appearance of your fire site; do not move fire rings. Campfires are prohibited in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness [LINK].

ADIRONDACK LOCAL BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS

** indicates new or revised items.

NORTHEASTERN ADIRONDACKS

** Boquet River / Willsboro Fish Ladder: Over the past 2 weeks 49 landlocked Atlantic salmon and 1 brown trout were processed and released from the Willsboro fish ladder, on the Boquet River. Recent rains have made the river high. Anglers should use caution and be alert for changes in water levels. Typically Columbus Weekend is the peak time for the salmon run but this varies depending on weather and temperatures.

Chazy Highlands Wild Forest: The newly acquired Forest Preserve lands on the Standish and Chazy Lake Roads in the Lyon Mountain area, and on the Smith and Carter Roads in the Ellenburg Mountain area, are open for public use. State boundary lines are not yet marked, contact the DEC Region 5 Natural Resources office (518-891-1291) to obtain a property map. Be aware of your location at all times, do not trespass.

HIGH PEAKS

** Bushnell Falls: The high water bridge at Bushnell Falls has been removed, the low water crossing may not be accessible during high water.

** Upper Works to Duck Hole: All the foot bridges on the trail between Upper Works and the Duck Hole have been replaced and the trail has been cleared.

** Moose Pond Horse Trail: The bridges on the Moose Pond Horse Trail have been replaced, horse drawn wagons can access the trail to Ermine Brook.

** Newcomb Lake - Moose Pond: A bridge on the Newcomb Lake to Moose Pond Trail has been flooded by beaver activity. The bridge is intact, but surrounded by water.

Northville-Placid Trail: Crews have constructed and marked a reroute of the Northville-Placid Trail around an area flooded by beaver activity between Plumley Point and Shattuck Clearing.

Opalescent River Bridges Washed Out: The Opalescent River Bridge on the East River / Hanging Spears Falls trail has been washed out. The crossing will be impassable during high water.

Big Slide Ladder: The ladder up the final pitch of Big Slide has been removed.

Caulkins Brook Truck Trail/Horse Trail: Much of the blowdown on the Caulkins Brook Truck Trail/Horse Trail between the Calkins Brook lean-tos and Shattuck Clearing has been removed. The trail is open for hikers but remains impassable to horses and wagons. DEC crews continue to work to open the trail.

Mt. Adams Fire Tower: The cab of the Mt. Adams Fire Tower was heavily damaged by windstorms. The fire tower is closed to public access until DEC can make repairs to the structure.

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN ADIRONDACKS

** Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Conservation Easement: Camping is limited to designated campsites, 8 campsites have been designated at this time.

** Adirondack Canoe Route: Due to heavy rains last week and recent moderate rains water levels are high. Check the current USGS streamflow data for selected waters.

** Adirondack Canoe Route: Northern Forest Canoe Trail volunteers rehabilitated the takeout at the north end of Eighth Lake. The 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail celebrates its tenth year this summer. Winding its way from Maine through New Hampshire, Quebec, Vermont, and into New York ending at Old Forge.

Forest Ranger Greg George: Ranger George has retired after 33 years of service. If you had contacted Ranger George in the past for camping permits, backcountry conditions or for any other purpose, you should now contact Forest Ranger Bruce Lomnitzer at 518-648-5246. For matters regarding Tirrell Pond contact Forest Ranger Jay Scott at 315-354-4611.

Coyote Activity in Old Forge: There has been some anecdotal evidence for higher than usual numbers of coyotes in the Old Forge area. No nuisance animals have been reported, but their presence is a reminder that as coyotes increasingly adapt to people, more encounters between humans and coyotes will occur, either as sightings, confrontations with pets, disturbed garbage or pet foods, or howling at night. To minimize conflicts don't provide food such as coolers or garbage, and do not feed wildlife.

Ferris Lake Wild Forest / West Lake Boat Launch (Fulton County): The boat launch was impacted by August rains and floods. DEC staff have made repairs to the roadway, parking lot and ramps, however, be aware that the waters off the boat launch are more shallow than before.

** Moose River Plains Wild Forest: The New York State Muzzle-Loaders Association is be holding it's Primitive Rendezvous and Hunt, on Limekiln Lake Road about 7 miles from the Limekiln Lake entrance near Inlet. Now in its 19th year, the event features about 50 men, women, and children dressed in 1740 to 1840 attire and camping with period equipment. This year's rendezvous will include tomahawk and knife throwing, Dutch oven cooking, tipi and canvass lodge living, an demonstrations of muzzle-loaders and other tools of the era. Visitors are welcome only on Sunday, October 10th, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Moose River Plains Wild Forest: Rock Dam Road and the campsites along it have reopened. The main Moose River Plains Road (Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road), the Otter Brook Road up to the Otter Brook Bridge will also be open this weekend. Gates to other side roads, including Indian Lake Road, Otter Brook Truck Trail, and Otter Brook Road, remain shut and the roads closed to motor vehicle traffic at this time.

Moose River Plains Wild Forest: Work has been completed on the main Moose River Plains Road (Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road). Once again vehicles may travel between the Cedar River entrance and the Limekiln Lake entrance. See photos of the two new bridges.

Sacandaga Lake: Warning! The spiny water flea, an aquatic invasive species, is has been confirmed present in Sacandaga Lake in the southern Adirondacks near Speculator. It was previously confirmed in Great Sacandaga Lake in 2008, Peck Lake in 2009, and Stewarts Bridge Reservoir earlier this year. It is not clear when the spiny water flea was introduced into each of 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. Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species - INSPECT, DRY and CLEAN all fishing and boating equipment between waters. See advice in the "Do Not Spread Invasive Aquatic Species" webpage.

West Canada Lakes Wilderness / N-P Trail: The bridge over Mud Creek, on the Northville-Placid Trail northeast of Mud Lake, has been washed out.

Shaker Mountain Wild Forest: The lean-to on the south shore of Chase Lake has been removed, and a new one is now been built on the lake's north shore (See photos). A new trail spur leading off the old trail and approaching the new lean-to from the west has been marked. The site of the old lean-to is now a designated tent site.

Chimney Mountain / Eagle Cave: DEC is investigating the presence of white-nose syndrome in bats in Eagle Cave near Chimney Mountain. Until further notice Eagle Cave is closed to all public access.

** Wilcox Lake Forest: Trails to Wilcox Lake and Tenant Falls beginning at the end of the Hope Falls Road, cross private property. While DEC does have a trail easement for the East Stony Creek Trail to Wilcox Lake, there is no formal agreement with the landowner for access to the Tenant Falls Trail. DEC is working on a resolution to this matter. In the meanwhile, hikers and day uses must respect the private driveway at the trailhead and not block it. Also respect the landowner's privacy - stay on the trail, do not enter the private property.

Wilcox Lake Wild Forest: Flooding is affecting the Pine Orchard Trail and Murphy Lake Trail. Bridges at Mill Creek, approximately 3 miles from the trailhead on Dorr Road has no decking, only stringers, the bridges over Mill Brook, north of Pine Orchard, is not decked, and the Dayton Creek bridge is out on the trail from Brownell Camp (at the end of Hope Falls Road) to Wilcox Lake.

EASTERN ADIRONDACKS

Gore Mountain: The Schaeffer Trail to the summit of Gore Mountain, has undergone a significant reroute. The new trailhead is located at the parking lot for Grunblatt Memorial Beach in North Creek. From there the trail leads southwest and then north, looping around the North Creek reservoir before continuing southwest to the summit.

Lake George Wild Forest / Hudson River Recreation Area: Funding reductions have required that several gates and roads remain closed to motor vehicle traffic. These include Dacy Clearing Road, Lily Pond Road, Jabe Pond Road, Gay Pond Road, Buttermilk Road Extension and Scofield Flats Road.

Lake George Wild Forest: Equestrians should be aware that there is significant blowdown on horse trails. While hikers may be able to get through the trails, it may be impossible or at least much harder for horses to get through. Lack of resources, resulting from the state's budget shortfall, preclude DEC from clearing trails of blowdown at this time.

NORTHERN ADIRONDACKS

** Adirondack Canoe Route: Due to heavy rains last week and recent moderate rains water levels are high. Check the current USGS streamflow data for selected waters.

St. Regis Canoe Area: The carry between Long Pond and Nellie Pond has been flooded by beavers about half way between the ponds. A short paddle will be required. DEC and Student Conservation Association crews will be working through mid-October to move 8 campsites, closed 23 campsites and created 21 new campsites [online map]. This week they are rebuilding a lean-to on Fish Pond. Please respect closure signs.

Whitney Wilderness / Lake Lila: Beaver activity has caused the flooding of the Stony Pond Road approximately one mile from the trailhead. Use caution if you choose to cross this area.

--------------------

Forecast provided by the National Weather Service; warnings and announcements drawn from NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and other sources. Detailed Adirondack Park camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation and trail conditions can be found at DEC's webpages. A DEC map of the Adirondack Park can also be found online [pdf].

The new DEC Trails Supporter Patch is now available for $5 at all outlets where sporting licenses are sold, on-line and via telephone at 1-866-933-2257. Patch proceeds will help maintain and enhance non-motorized trails throughout New York State.

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Oct. 7)

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Oct. 7)

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: Election Voter Registration Deadline Friday

Adirondack Almanack: Election Voter Registration Deadline Friday: "For state residents to register to vote for the November 2, 2010 general election mail-in voter registration forms must be postmarked by mid..."

Adirondack Almanack: Moose River Plains Primitive Rendezvous and Hunt

Adirondack Almanack: Moose River Plains Primitive Rendezvous and Hunt: "There's a unique event happening this week about seven miles from the Limekiln Lake entrance in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest - a Primi..."

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: An Onion River Lesson: DEC Needs Our Help

People who oppose the state’s acquisition of land in the Adirondacks often complain that the state can’t manage the forest it already owns. So, the thinking goes, why buy more?

That argument always struck me as risible. Forests can manage quite well without our help. They did so for eons before homo sapiens existed.

I assume, then, the critics mean that the state has done a less-than-superb job creating and maintaining recreational facilities on the public Forest Preserve—trails, parking lots, signs, and the like. In this, they have a point. It was driven home to me last weekend when I paddled the little-known Onion River.

The Onion is part of a Forest Preserve parcel that also includes Madawaska Flow and Quebec Brook. The parcel was purchased by the state in the Champion International transaction in 1998—the first big conservation-easement deal engineered by Governor George Pataki. In all, the state acquired twenty-nine thousand acres outright and protected another 115,000 acres through easements that permit logging but prohibit development.

To reach Madawaska Flow, the put-in for trips on the Onion River and Quebec Brook, you have to drive for six miles on a dirt road through easement lands. The road begins at a wooden DEC sign on Route 458 west of Meacham Lake.

Complaint No. 1: On the way to the parking area, the road passes three junctions where the way is not obvious. None of them is marked by a sign. I guessed wrong once and eventually ended up on a muddy logging track.

Complaint No. 2: When you arrive at the parking lot, there are no maps, signs, or trail markers to indicate where the portage is. I walked down a gated woods road for 0.4 miles to reach the water, but I’m told there is a shorter portage with a different put-in. The carries should be marked.

Complaint No. 3: There are many places amid the pines that would be ideal for pitching a tent, but I saw no official campsites. In a comment in the trail register, another visitor also complained about the lack of campsites.

In short, more than a decade after the state purchased the Madawaska tract, DEC has failed to provide such basic amenities as signs, trail disks, and campsites.

I’m not going to criticize DEC. We all know how short-staffed and underfunded the department is. And last week the governor announced that the department’s budget will be cut even more.

So the critics are right. DEC lacks the staff to adequately “manage” the forest. I disagree with their conclusion, though, that the state should stop buying land. The primary purpose in preserving the Adirondacks is the protection of wild habitat and natural ecosystems. Recreation, however important, is secondary.

That said, we ought to make the Forest Preserve more user-friendly. In this era of austerity, we cannot expect DEC to do everything. Hikers, paddlers, cross-country skiers, anglers, hunters, and others who use and love the Forest Preserve need to pitch in.

DEC already relies on volunteers recruited through its Adopt-a-Natural-Resource program. Among other things, the volunteers maintain trails and repair lean-tos. But this approach can be greatly expanded with the help of the Internet.

Here’s my idea: DEC, perhaps in conjunction with the Adirondack Mountain Club, should create an interactive website listing Forest Preserve projects that need doing and solicit volunteers to undertake the work. At the same time, the public could submit suggestions for other projects. The aim would be to match volunteers with projects that they are highly motivated to undertake. It might be clearing blowdown on a favorite hiking trail, marking a portage, or snipping brush on a ski trail.

Those who love the Forest Preserve are willing to give generously of their time to make it a better place to visit. Just this week, DEC gave its annual stewardship award to a passionate hiker, Len Grubbs, who has devoted 2,336 hours to trail work over the years. For another example of the dedication of volunteers, check out the story about Lean2Rescue in the September/October issue of the Adirondack Explorer. (The Explorer story is not available online, but the Almanack also covered their award-winning work last year last year.)

The passion is out there. DEC just needs to harness it.

Anybody out there capable of building a few signs to point the way to Madawaska?

Photo: The Onion River by Phil Brown, editor of the Adirondack Explorer newsmagazine. A description of Phil's trip on the Onion is online along with another possible trip at Madawaska.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Groups Win Round Over Canoe Route

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Groups Win Round Over Canoe Route

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Groups Win Round Over Canoe Route

Two Adirondack conservation groups, the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) and Protect the Adirondacks! (PROTECT), have won an important round in a lawsuit to force the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) to classify a state-owned wilderness canoe route in the heart of the Adirondacks. According to the local conservationists their lawsuit challenges the failure of the state to classify the waters of Lows Lake and other water bodies at all and is not challenging a particular classification determination.

State Supreme Court Justice Michael C. Lynch denied the state’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit against APA and the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). According to a press release issued Friday, "the groups brought the lawsuit because of APA’s failure to classify the waters of Lows Lake and nearby water bodies. The groups assert that state law requires the state to classify state-owned water bodies that are part of the Forest Preserve."

“We are pleased that the Court has rejected the state's effort to delay the resolution of this case and look forward to the day when APA and DEC will have to comply with the State Land Master Plan and classify Lows Lake as part of the Five Ponds Wilderness Area," said Dale Jeffers, co-chair of PROTECT’s Conservation Advocacy Committee.

The decision reaffirmed that the Master Plan has the force of law according to ADK’s executive director and counsel Neil Woodworth. “There is a persistent misconception that the Master Plan is just a set of guidelines or recommendations,” Woodworth said. “That is not the case. The provisions of the Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan are state law, codified as Section 816 of New York State Executive Law. State agencies do not have the discretion to ignore the plan. That is what this case is all about.”

In his ruling, Justice Lynch determined that issues raised by ADK and PROTECT are “justiciable,” in other words, substantial issues that are appropriate for resolution by a court.

The groups also assert that APA had already classified Lows Lake as Wilderness in 1987 and that classification was approved by Gov. Cuomo in 1988. The state moved to dismiss that claim as untimely, but Justice Lynch recognized that the lawsuit is not challenging the earlier classification but instead seeks to enforce it. He ruled that the claim was timely brought.

In April, the APA banned floatplane use on Lows Lake after 2011. The following month, the APA and DEC proposed classifying Lows Lake and other nearby water bodies as Wilderness. The groups assert that the Master Plan requires APA to classify all state-owned lands and waters in the Adirondack Park according to “their characteristics and ability to withstand use.” In September, the APA voted to classify a portion of Lows Lake as Wilderness and a portion as Primitive. Both classifications prohibit motorized public uses. But Gov. David Paterson’s representatives on the APA board later changed their position and supported a resolution that left the lake unclassified.

A copy of Justice Lynch’s decision is available as an online pdf.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Conservation Easements: Trends and Expectations

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Conservation Easements: Trends and Expectations

Adirondack Almanack: Adirondack Conservation Easements: Trends and Expectations

Definition: “A conservation easement typically consists of permanently enforceable rights held by a land trust or government agency by which the landowner promises to use property only in ways permitted by the easement. The landowner retains ownership and may convey it like any other property, subject to the easement’s restrictions. Conservation easements have been made possible by enabling legislation in virtually every state” (from Reinventing Conservation Easements: A Critical Examination and Ideas for Reform by Jeff Pidot, Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 2005).

Society has many expectations for large tracts of forest under conservation easement. The list often includes some form of public recreation on private ownership, sustainably harvested timber and pulp, biological diversity including diverse watchable and huntable wildlife, recreational leases, drivable roads, protected streams, ponds and wetlands, shared taxes, timely enforcement of the rules.

If that list is not long enough, some believe that these protected private lands can be managed to help slow or mitigate a changing climate that is likely to continue to warm for centuries, even if Homo sapiens cut emissions dramatically in order to maintain current atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, which we are not.

During a winter 2009 workshop about Adirondack conservation easements, it was reported that there were 737,000 acres under some form of state conservation easement in all of New York State, with 98% occurring in the Adirondack region. An additional 100,000 acres were being negotiated. According to Regional Forester Tom Martin, in DEC Region 5 (two-thirds of the Adirondack Park) there were 365,000 acres under conservation easement with 113 different landowners in 2009. 340,000 of those acres were certified by third-party certification systems such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

During the workshop, Jerry Jenkins of the Wildlife Conservation Society offered his opinion that easements in the Northern Forest have achieved a basic goal to conserve biodiversity. Jenkins’ report Conservation Easements and Biodiversity in the Northern Forest Region (2008 by the Wildlife Conservation Society and Open Space Institute) provides important background and recommendations. As Jenkins stated at the workshop, conservation easements negotiated in the future should also address the issue of carbon emissions, which have global consequences.

If conservation easements are to address climate issues, landowners must be provided with the information and spectrum of management options. Forestry management plans which utilize low grade trees as biomass feedstock are on the “front lines.” To satisfy the Chicago Climate Exchange, forests need to be FSC certified.

Certification provides the standards and incentives to capture this low carbon energy source and the practice of low carbon forestry. Would easement lands qualify for carbon offset markets? Jenkins noted that the dollar value to landowners may not come solely or even primarily from carbon offsets, but from the avoidance cost of replacing fossil fuels as primary heat source in the northeast. As Jerry Jenkins put it, “how much money can we save the local school board by putting in a wood chip boiler in place of the old oil burner? How can those savings be translated into financial benefits for the landowner?”

In September, 2010, the Adirondack Park Agency sponsored a field visit with the Adirondack Park’s largest private landowner and manager of lands under conservation easement, Lyme Timber. Lyme’s land manager Sean Ross led the APA to lands they have harvested north of Tupper Lake. Adirondack Wild’s Dan Plumley and I went along. These foresters manage blocks as large as 15,000 acres. Lyme owns 250,000-acres in the Adirondack Park.

In general, Lyme views the conservation easement positively, as well as the rigorous certification requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Ross made the case that the Adirondack Park’s protected status, including laws and publicly-owned Forest Preserve, were strong incentives to engage in easements and certification. Lyme’s field operations must be audited each year by the FSC or one of its third party certifiers. As Sean told us, FSC certification is an expected cost of doing business these days.

Why is Lyme in this forest land business? Trees are adding diameter and value yearly. This steady return on investment jumps when a large cherry or maple grows into a larger diameter class. Lyme’s markets are wherever they can find them – the Ticonderoga mill, nearby biomass plants, Canada and the world.

If he had the power to do so, what would he change about the conservation easement? Sean Ross said that he might take small parts of a given parcel out of the easement, and put other areas in it. Other than this, he saw no need for change. In answer to other questions, Sean Ross noted that fragmentation of land ownerships across the Northern Forest is making it challenging to manage lands for forestry. Asked if Ross could estimate Lyme’s minimum viable tract size, Ross stated it was around 10,000 acres.

Were there any collaborative efforts to conduct ecosystem-based, wild land planning for wildlife and ecosystem integrity on these lands, such as wildlife corridors? In response, Ross noted that Lyme was able to get a grant through DEC to hire a wildlife biologist that is exploring these issues for their Adirondack lands. He noted collaboration with the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and Audubon New York.

Lyme also participated in the 2009 workshop. During that meeting, its representative noted the time pressures to complete contracts, and to assess what’s important to conserve in a conservation easement. On the other hand, biologists at the workshop felt that on large forested tracts several field seasons were required to survey and document rare or unique ecological communities.

The 2009 workshop concluded by identifying the following needs and tasks:
• Studies to indicate whether easements in the Adirondacks are truly meeting stated ecological, economic and social objectives.
• Studies of how easement lands respond to climate change.
• Methods for compensating landowners for achieving easement objectives
• Funding for baseline documentation and monitoring programs for both land and aquatic resources.
• Completing a conservation easement registry program, already required by law.


Photo: Sean Ross of Lyme Timber addresses questions during APA-sponsored field visit in September. Photo by Dan Plumley, Adirondack Wild.

Adirondacks, New York, forests, easements

Friday, October 1, 2010

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Sept. 30)

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Sept. 30)

Adirondack Almanack: Current Conditions in the Adirondack Park (Sept. 30

This announcement is for general use - local conditions may vary and are subject to change.

Listen for the weekly Adirondack Outdoor Conditions Report Friday mornings on WNBZ (AM 920 & 1240, FM 105 & 102.1) and the stations of North Country Public Radio.

The Adirondack Almanack publishes occasional Forest Ranger incident reports which form a stern reminder that wilderness conditions can change suddenly and accidents happen. Be aware of the latest weather conditions and carry adequate gear and supplies.

Fire Danger: LOW

Very Heavy Rains/High Waters/Flooding

The National Weather Service is predicting 3 to 4 inches of rain in the Adirondacks through Friday morning, with some areas receiving more. Strong winds are expected with stronger winds at higher elevations. A flood watch is in effect into Friday night. Water levels are expected to be high - low water crossings may not be accessible and paddlers should be prepared for high waters. Expect muddy wet, trails through the weekend. Wear appropriate footwear and to stay on the trail - hike through muddy areas and puddles to avoid widening the trails or creating “herd paths” around those areas.

Central Adirondacks Lower Elevation Weather

Friday: Showers before 2pm. Cloudy, high near 58.
Friday Night: Chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, low around 37.
Saturday: Chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, high near 50. Gutsy winds.
Saturday Night: Chance of rain and snow showers; low around 31.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high near 45.

The National Weather Service provides a weather forecast for elevations above 3000 feet and spot forecasts for the summits of a handful of the highest peaks in Clinton, Essex and Franklin counties. [LINK]

Cooler Weather

Cooler temperatures have arrived in the mountains. Night-time and morning temperatures in the 30s or colder are likely, especially at higher elevations. Pack extra non-cotton clothes, including a hat and gloves.

Darkness Arriving Earlier

Autumn has arrived and daylight hours have decreased. Know when sunset occurs and plan accordingly. Always pack or carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.

Fall Foliage Season

Fall Foliage Season is well underway in the central Adirondacks. For an updated foliage report see the state tourism site's Foliage Report.

GENERAL ADIRONDACK CONDITIONS

Accidents Happen, Be Prepared


Wilderness conditions can change suddenly and accidents happen. Hikers and campers should check up-to-date forecasts before entering the backcountry as conditions at higher elevations will likely be more severe. All users should bring flashlight, first aid kit, map and compass, extra food, plenty of water and clothing. Be prepared to spend an unplanned night in the woods and always inform others of your itinerary.

Motorists Alert: Moose

There are upwards of 800 Moose in the Adirondack region, up from 500 in 2007. Motorists should be alert for moose on the roadways at this time of year especially at dawn and dusk, which are times of poor visibility when Moose are most active. Much larger than deer, moose-car collisions can be very dangerous. Last year ten accidents involving moose were reported. DEC is working to identify areas where moose are present and post warning signs.

Hunting Seasons
Fall hunting seasons for small game, waterfowl and big game have begun or will begin shortly. Hikers should be aware that they may meet hunters bearing firearms or archery equipment while hiking on trails. Recognize that these are fellow outdoor recreationists with the legal right to hunt on Forest Preserve lands. Hunting accidents involving non-hunters are extremely rare. Hikers may want to wear bright colors as an extra precaution.

Sporting Licenses On Sale
The new sporting license year will begins October 1. Find out how to purchase a sporting license on the DEC website. Information about the 2010 Hunting Seasons is also available online [pdf].

Motorized Equipment in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas
The use of motorized equipment in lands classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe is prohibited. Public use of small personal electronic or mechanical devices such as cameras, radios or GPS receivers are not affected this regulation.

Storage of Personal Belongings on State Land
Placing structures or personal property on state land without authorization from DEC is prohibited. Exceptions include: properly placed and labeled geocaches; legally placed and tagged traps, tree stands and blinds. The full regulation regarding the use of motorized equipment on state lands may be found online; the regulation regarding the structures and storage of personal property is also online.

Firewood Ban
Due to the possibility of spreading invasive species that could devastate northern New York forests (such as Emerald Ash Borer, Hemlock Wooly Adeljid and Asian Longhorn Beetle), DEC prohibits moving untreated firewood more than 50 miles from its source. Forest Rangers have begun ticketing violators of this firewood ban. More details and frequently asked questions at the DEC website.

Do Not Feed Bears
Recently a forest ranger shot and killed a bear that was harassing campers at the Eight Lake State Campground near Inlet. Wildlife biologists believe the yearling had been fed by campers and grown not to fear people. Eight problem bears were killed in the Adirondacks last summer.

Bear-Resistant Canisters
The use of bear-resistant canisters is required for overnight users in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness between April 1 and November 30. All food, toiletries and garbage must be stored in bear resistant canisters; the use of bear-resistant canisters is encouraged throughout the Adirondacks.

Low Impact Campfires
Reduce the impact on natural areas by utilizing lightweight stoves, fire pans, mound fires or other low impact campfire techniques. Use only dead or small downed wood that can be broken by hand and keep fires small. Leave hatchets, axes and saws at home. Never leave a fire unattended, don't burn garbage, and restore the appearance of your fire site; do not move fire rings. Campfires are prohibited in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness [LINK].

ADIRONDACK LOCAL BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS

** indicates new or revised items.

NORTHEASTERN ADIRONDACKS

** Chazy Highlands Wild Forest: The newly acquired Forest Preserve lands on the Standish and Chazy Lake Roads in the Lyon Mountain area, and on the Smith and Carter Roads in the Ellenburg Mountain area, are open for public use. State boundary lines are not yet marked, contact the DEC Region 5 Natural Resources office (518-891-1291) to obtain a property map. Be aware of your location at all times, do not trespass.

Lake Champlain Tributaries: The Lake Champlain Fish and Wildlife Management Cooperative (Cooperative) has completed applying lampricide to portions of the Salmon River, Little Ausable River, Ausable River, and Putnam Creek in New York. The Department of Health recommends that the treated river and lake water not be used for drinking, swimming, fishing, irrigation, or livestock watering while the health advisories are in effect.

HIGH PEAKS

** Northville-Placid Trail: Crews have constructed and marked a reroute of the Northville-Placid Trail around an area flooded by beaver activity between Plumley Point and Shattuck Clearing.

Opalescent River Bridges Washed Out: The Opalescent River Bridge on the East River / Hanging Spears Falls trail has been washed out. The crossing will be impassable during high water.

Big Slide Ladder: The ladder up the final pitch of Big Slide has been removed.

Caulkins Brook Truck Trail/Horse Trail: Much of the blowdown on the Caulkins Brook Truck Trail/Horse Trail between the Calkins Brook lean-tos and Shattuck Clearing has been removed. The trail is open for hikers but remains impassable to horses and wagons. DEC crews continue to work to open the trail.

Calamity Dam Lean-to: Calamity Lean-to #1, the lean-to closest to the old Calamity Dam in the Flowed Lands, has been dismantled and removed.

Mt. Adams Fire Tower: The cab of the Mt. Adams Fire Tower was heavily damaged by windstorms. The fire tower is closed to public access until DEC can make repairs to the structure.

Upper Works - Preston Ponds Washouts: Two foot bridges on the trail between Upper Works and Preston Pond were washed out by an ice jam. One bridge was located 1/3 mile northwest of the new lean-to on Henderson Lake. The second bridge was located several tenths of a mile further northwest. The streams can be crossed by rock hopping. Crossings may be difficult during periods of high water.

Duck Hole: The bridge across the dam has been removed due to its deteriorating condition. A low water crossing (ford) has been marked below the dam near the lean-to site. This crossing will not be possible during periods of high water.

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN ADIRONDACKS

** Adirondack Canoe Route: National Weather Service is predicting 3 to 4 inches of rain in the Adirondacks, with some areas receiving more, from Thursday morning to Friday morning. Water levels are expected to be high through the weekend. Check the current USGS streamflow data for selected waters.

Forest Ranger Greg George: Ranger George has retired after 33 years of service. If you had contacted Ranger George in the past for camping permits, backcountry conditions or for any other purpose, you should now contact Forest Ranger Bruce Lomnitzer at 518-648-5246. For matters regarding Tirrell Pond contact Forest Ranger Jay Scott at 315-354-4611.

** Coyote Activity in Old Forge: There has been some anecdotal evidence for higher than usual numbers of coyotes in the Old Forge area. No nuisance animals have been reported, but their presence is a reminder that as coyotes increasingly adapt to people, more encounters between humans and coyotes will occur, either as sightings, confrontations with pets, disturbed garbage or pet foods, or howling at night. To minimize conflicts don't provide food such as coolers or garbage, and do not feed wildlife.

Ferris Lake Wild Forest / West Lake Boat Launch (Fulton County): The boat launch was impacted by August rains and floods. DEC staff have made repairs to the roadway, parking lot and ramps, however, be aware that the waters off the boat launch are more shallow than before.

Moose River Plains Wild Forest: Rock Dam Road and the campsites along it have reopened. The main Moose River Plains Road (Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road), the Otter Brook Road up to the Otter Brook Bridge will also be open this weekend. Gates to other side roads, including Indian Lake Road, Otter Brook Truck Trail, and Otter Brook Road, remain shut and the roads closed to motor vehicle traffic at this time.

** Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road: Work has been completed on the Sumner Stream Bridge Project on the main Moose River Plains Road (Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road). Once again vehicles may travel between the Cedar River entrance and the Limekiln Lake entrance. See photos of the two new bridges.

Sacandaga Lake (Near Speculator, about 20 miles north west of Great Sacandaga Lake): Warning! The spiny water flea, an aquatic invasive species, is has been confirmed present in Sacandaga Lake in the southern Adirondacks near Speculator. It was previously confirmed in Great Sacandaga Lake in 2008, Peck Lake in 2009, and Stewarts Bridge Reservoir earlier this year. It is not clear when the spiny water flea was introduced into each of 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. Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species - INSPECT, DRY and CLEAN all fishing and boating equipment between waters. See advice in the "Do Not Spread Invasive Aquatic Species" webpage.

West Canada Lakes Wilderness / N-P Trail: The bridge over Mud Creek, on the Northville-Placid Trail northeast of Mud Lake, has been washed out.

** Shaker Mountain Wild Forest: The lean-to on the south shore of Chase Lake has been removed, and a new one is now been built on the lake's north shore (See photos). A new trail spur leading off the old trail and approaching the new lean-to from the west has been marked. The site of the old lean-to is now a designated tent site.

Chimney Mountain / Eagle Cave: DEC is investigating the presence of white-nose syndrome in bats in Eagle Cave near Chimney Mountain. Until further notice Eagle Cave is closed to all public access.

** Wilcox Lake Forest: The trail to Tenant Creek Falls has been closed indefinitely. DEC is working to reroute the trail entirely on public land. Currently, parking and initial trail access are on private land for which there is no easement.

Wilcox Lake Wild Forest: Flooding is also affecting the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest, particularly the Pine Orchard Trail and Murphy Lake Trail. Bridges at Mill Creek, approximately 3 miles from the trailhead on Dorr Road has no decking, only stringers, the bridges over Mill Brook, north of Pine Orchard, is not decked, and the Dayton Creek bridge is out on the trail from Brownell Camp (at the end of Hope Falls Road) to Wilcox Lake.

EASTERN ADIRONDACKS

** Gore Mountain: The Schaeffer Trail to the summit of Gore Mountain, has undergone a significant reroute. The new trailhead is located at the parking lot for Grunblatt Memorial Beach in North Creek. From there the trail leads southwest and then north, looping around the North Creek reservoir before continuing southwest to the summit.

Lake George Wild Forest / Hudson River Recreation Area: Funding reductions have required that several gates and roads remain closed to motor vehicle traffic. These include Dacy Clearing Road, Lily Pond Road, Jabe Pond Road, Gay Pond Road, Buttermilk Road Extension and Scofield Flats Road.

Lake George Wild Forest: Equestrians should be aware that there is significant blowdown on horse trails. While hikers may be able to get through the trails, it may be impossible or at least much harder for horses to get through. Lack of resources, resulting from the state's budget shortfall, preclude DEC from clearing trails of blowdown at this time.

NORTHERN ADIRONDACKS

** Adirondack Canoe Route: National Weather Service is predicting 3 to 4 inches of rain in the Adirondacks, with some areas receiving more, from Thursday morning to Friday morning. Water levels are expected to be high through the weekend. Check the current USGS streamflow data for selected waters.

St. Regis Canoe Area: The carry between Long Pond and Nellie Pond has been flooded by beavers about half way between the ponds. A short paddle will be required. DEC and Student Conservation Association crews have moved 8 campsites, closed 23 campsites and created 21 new campsites [online map]. Please respect closure signs.

Whitney Wilderness / Lake Lila: Beaver activity has caused the flooding of the Stony Pond Road approximately one mile from the trailhead. Use caution if you choose to cross this area.

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Forecast provided by the National Weather Service; warnings and announcements drawn from NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and other sources. Detailed Adirondack Park camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation and trail conditions can be found at DEC's webpages. A DEC map of the Adirondack Park can also be found online [pdf].

The new DEC Trails Supporter Patch is now available for $5 at all outlets where sporting licenses are sold, on-line and via telephone at 1-866-933-2257. Patch proceeds will help maintain and enhance non-motorized trails throughout New York State.