Final Three Segments of New York State Birding Trail Now Open  DEC recently announced the grand opening of the final three regions of the New York State Birding Trail, highlighting the state's world-class and wide-ranging birding opportunities. The Adirondacks-North Country, Catskills, and Southern Tier segments bring the total number of birding trail locations across the state to more than 300, providing a variety of quality birding experiences for New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy.
Birdwatching has become one of New York's fastest-growing recreation and tourism activities. DEC manages the New York State Birding Trail in collaboration with partners that include the State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. The statewide trail network includes birding locations that can be accessed by car or public transportation, providing an inclusive experience for all visitors to enjoy birds amid beautiful natural settings with little or no cost or investment in equipment. Additional information and the New York State Birding Trail map are available at www.ibirdny.org, which provides valuable information on each site such as location, available amenities, species likely to be seen, directions, and more.
Watch for Marine Life in New York's Waters  New York's ocean waters are home to various kinds of marine life, including large whales and dolphins! Whales and dolphins are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and boaters must remain at a distance from marine life for everyone's safety:
- 50 yards from dolphins and porpoises;
- 100 yards from all whales (except North Atlantic right whales, see below); and
- 500 yards from North Atlantic right whales.
If a marine mammal approaches you, remember to idle your engine and not re-engage power until the whale has cleared your path. Attempting to leave the area may interrupt natural behaviors such as feeding, nursing, resting, and traveling, or could result in a vessel strike causing harm to the whale and/or boat. Please report all sightings of marine mammals or sea turtles to DEC by using our Flipper Files digital survey. If you suspect a marine mammal or sea turtle is sick or injured, call the New York Stranding Hotline at 631-369-9829 to report the animal. Learn more about the different types of Marine Mammals in New York and for more information on marine wildlife viewing safety visit NOAA's Marine Life Viewing Guidelines .
DEC to Host Third Annual Women's Fishing Expo  DEC and the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will hold the third annual Women's Fishing Expo at Connetquot River State Park Preserve in the town of Islip, Suffolk County, on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Expo will provide hands-on instruction and experiential learning in a fun and supportive environment. This event will be run primarily by female anglers and fisheries professionals. Everyone is welcome to attend, although the event is focused on introducing women to fishing. Participants will be able to learn about fishing opportunities on Long Island and statewide, fishing basics and intermediate fishing skills. This is a rain or shine event. Seats are limited, and pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register for the free event, call the DEC's I FISH NY Program at (631) 444-0283, or email fwfish1@dec.ny.gov with the subject title 'Women's Fishing Expo.' A vehicle use fee of $8 will be in effect.
Try out a Recreation Planning Tool  Want an easy way to find your next adventure and reserve experiences at facilities and sites across the country? Use the new Recreation.gov tools and other resources to plan your next getaway or dream vacation. Take advantage of the trip builder or download the mobile app to use it on the go. Find your new favorite tent camping, RV, or cabin spot. Get inspiration and information on visitors guides, road trips and other hikes from major cities around the country.
Recreation Highlight: The Submerged Heritage Preserves Program of Lake George  The Adirondacks remain one of the most sought-after destinations for outdoor recreation. From hiking serene mountain passes to hitting the bike trails, it truly has something for everyone – even historic ship divers!
Lake George was the site of many pivotal engagements in the founding years of our nation, including the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Evidence of its witness are but a stone's throw from shore in the cold, dark waters. The Sunken Fleet of 1758 consists of the remains of seven original bateaux; flat-bottomed warships, commonly used by both sides in the French and Indian War. The Land Tortoise Underwater Preserve Site contains what is believed to be the sole survivor of a distinct class of military vessel only used on Lake George and Lake Champlain in the 18th century. The Smithsonian has designated the Land Tortoise as "the oldest intact war vessel." The Forward Underwater Classroom is a triangular-shaped trail system of diver stations created with support from The Fund for Lake George. It consists of the motor launch Forward (one of the first gasoline-powered vessels on the lake), an archaeological station on the wreck Penn Yan, as well as interpretive signage about invasive mussels and native underwater vegetation. Please keep in mind that these are unique, historic sites and have unfortunately been the victims of vandalism since 1993. To better protect these sites, please follow the guidelines outlined in the DEC Diving Guidelines for New York's Shipwreck Preserves and be sure to practice Leave No Trace™ principle 4 and take nothing but pictures! If you observe any violations, please report them to the proper authorities at 911.
Upcoming Events Be sure to check out DEC's wide selection of outdoor activities on our events calendar. View activities for the upcoming month or all the planned events currently scheduled, including public hearings and meetings. For specific information about upcoming events at DEC's Environmental Education Centers, see the following links: Five Rivers Environmental Education Center (Albany County) Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve & Environmental Education Center (Erie County) Rogers Environmental Education Center (Chenango County) Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center (Dutchess County)
Check Out Our Facebook Live Events As always, be sure to visit our Facebook page for updates and to view our Facebook Live offerings. From adventures at fish hatcheries and nighttime hiking to Q&As about black bears, there is always something to see and learn.
Conservationist  The August/September Conservationist includes a wide range of articles on outdoor activities in the State, including world-class fishing on the Salmon River and a summer program that helps children learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Hudson River, science, climate change, and environmental justice. Readers will also enjoy articles on hiking to—and up—a fire tower, a hunting camp, and the State Superfund Program. This and more in the latest issue of the Conservationist. If you want to receive the Conservationist, you can "Try now, pay later." Visit DEC's website and click "bill me" on the subscription page and instantly become a subscriber, or call 1-800-678-6399.
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