FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE00-21
June
12, 2000
Contact:
Geoff Ryan
(718/595-5371)
Department
of Environmental Protection Programs Explore Watershed Streams, Forests
and Wetlands
The public is invited to join natural resource managers and other
local scientists and specialists for a series of education programs
to be held on June 17 and 24, August 12 and September 9, according
to an announcement from the New York City Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP). The programs, which will be conducted in the field,
will explore the unique flora, fauna and hydrology of Catskill streams,
forests and wetlands.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the natural
world of the watershed and how we interact with it,"said DEP
Commissioner Miele. "We want to encourage the public to participate,
not only to observe first hand the unique beauty of the watershed,
but to learn about how healthy streams work and how we can help to
restore streams to good health, how wetlands protect water quality,
and how best management practices can be used in actively managed
forests."
The schedule is as follows:
JUNE 17, 2000
RECIPE FOR A HEALTHY STREAM: KANAPE BROOK, TOWN OF OLIVE
Scenic Kanape Brook, a tributary of the Bush Kill, originates
on Ashokan High Point Mountain, in West Shokan. Join members of the
DEP Stream Management Program to learn about the characteristics of
a stable Catskills stream. (Old sneakers are great for walking in
the stream.) Bring lunch and plenty of water for an optional hike
up Ashokan High Point in the afternoon.
TIME: |
10am - Noon |
DIRECTIONS: |
Meet at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Kanape Parking lot at the High Point trailhead on Peekamoose
Road, (Ulster County Rte. 42). |
JUNE 24, 2000
WHAT IS A WETLAND? WHY IS IT SPECIAL? TOWNS OF WOODSTOCK AND OLIVE
Visit freshwater marshes and swamps recently purchased by DEP's
Land Acquisition and Stewardship Program. Take this opportunity
to have your questions answered by your guide, a DEP Wetlands Specialist.
Wear rubber boots if you have them, and bring your camera and binoculars.
DEP will provide field guides.
TIME: |
10 am - 1 pm |
DIRECTIONS: |
Meet and car pool from the DEP Ben Nesin Lab at the Ashokan
Reservoir. From Kingston, Rte. 28 West to Shokan. (Left on Reservoir
Road over dividing weir, left at Stop sign, downhill, bear right
to parking lot.) The first stop will be at Coldbrook and Wittenberg
Road in Woodstock. The second stop will be at McMillan Road
off Rte. 28A in West Shokan. |
AUGUST 12, 2000
STREAM RESTORATION PROJECTS ON THE BATAVIA KILL, GREENE COUNTY
The Batavia Kill, a major tributary of the Schoharie Creek,
is a demonstration watershed for natural stream channel stability
restoration. Join DEP for a tour of a completed restoration project
and one currently under construction. Your guides will be members
of the the DEP Stream Management Program and the Greene County Soil
and Water Conservation District. The day will begin with a barbeque
and orientation at C.D. Lane Park.
TIME: |
Noon - 3:30 pm |
DIRECTIONS: |
Meet at C.D. Lane Park, off Greene county Rte 56, Town of
Windham. |
SEPTEMBER 9, 2000
LENNOX MEMORIAL MODEL FOREST 4H CAMP SHANKITUNK, DELAWARE COUNTY
Accompany a member of DEP's Watershed Forestry Program into
the Lennox Forest, one of four Model Forest research and demonstration
sites established by the Program. Walk along a rugged 2-mile trail
that highlights forest stand improvement techniques such as wildlife
enhancement and crown thinning, and "best management practices"
that protect water quality during timber harvesting operations.
TIME: |
10am - Noon |
DIRECTIONS: |
Please call (914) 340-7523 for details |
GENERAL INFORMATION FOR ALL PROGRAMS
Hiking boots, long pants, T-shirts and long sleeved shirts
are recommended for all participants. Sun protection and insect
repellant are also advised, and be sure to bring drinking water
and a snack. If it rains or sprinkles we'll go; if it pours the
day will be rescheduled. For more information about the June 17,
24 and August 12 hikes, please call (914) 340-7515.