Save the Date for First Day Hikes on New Year's Day 2023 
First Day Hikes will be returning on New Year's Day (Sunday, January 1, 2023) across the state. These guided hikes and walks are a great way to start off the new year outdoors. Stay tuned to future newsletters to learn more.
New Fisher Trail Opens at Five Rivers Environmental Education Center 
A new trail is now complete at Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Delmar, Albany County. Most of the 0.66-mile trail is accessible for people with disabilities and provides more opportunities for families and people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors. An elevated platform and several accessible benches are located along the trail. Two new parking areas, each with a map and information kiosk, are available off Fisher Boulevard at the end of Mason Lane.
Make Your Camping Reservation Today 
Did you know DEC campground reservations can be made up to nine months in advance? It's not too early to start planning for next summer's adventures. DEC operates campgrounds located in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks with a wide variety of experiences, including island camping, as well as tent and trailer camping. If you are looking for a full listing of campgrounds, check out the interactive New York State camping guide.
Trail Supporter Patches: Variety of Patches for Sale 
For those who are patch collecting enthusiasts, would like to support trails on State lands, or are looking for the perfect gift for an outdoor lover—we have the perfect thing for you! A variety of patches are now for sale, allowing you to purchase a single patch or sets. All funds go towards the maintenance of non-motorized trails on State lands, such as the Finger Lakes Trail, the Long Path, the Northville-Placid Trail, and many more. The patches are for sale through December 31, or while supplies last. Order by December 12 to get them in time for the holidays! - Legacy Patch (single patch for $5) - this is the fanciest patch that highlights some of New York State's most gorgeous trail-side features, including mountains, lakes, and forests.
- Throwback Patch Set (set of three patches for $15) - this design is modeled after the classic trail marker found throughout New York's State lands.
- Activity Patch Set (set of five patches for $25) - this design features the international symbols. for hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and camping.
For more information and for patch ordering instructions, visit DEC's website. 
Coming Soon: The Christmas Bird Count 
This holiday season, take your birding adventures to the next level by participating in the 123rd Christmas Bird Count. Organized by the National Audubon Society, the annual Christmas Bird Count is one of the longest-running avian censuses—a useful method to inventory worldwide bird populations. Taking place between December 14 and January 5, volunteers are tasked with counting as many birds as possible within a 24-hour window, all within a 15-mile-wide circle! Using the species tallies collected by participants during the count, Audubon will work to better understand and study the health of many different bird populations. The Christmas Bird Count is free and open to all, including birders of all skill levels. To find a Christmas Bird Count circle near you, check out the official National Audubon Society event map. Photo Credit: Camilla Cerea/Audubon
2022 Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 
Have you submitted your Catskills Fire Tower Challenge entry yet? Visit all six Catskill Fire Towers by December 31, 2022, to receive a commemorative patch and be entered to win great outdoor prizes. Colder months usually mean snow at higher elevations. Snowshoes, trail crampons, or microspikes are recommended. Be sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out and follow winter hiking safety tips. Learn more about safe winter hiking. For more information visit the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge webpage.
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 events currently scheduled, including public hearings and meetings. For specific information about upcoming events at DEC's Environmental Education Centers, visit 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 Magazine -- Holiday Special 
Enjoy reading about New York's environment and conservation? Consider a subscription to the New York State Conservationist -- DEC's magazine with interesting articles and stunning photography. Check out the Holiday Subscription Special which runs until December 31st. You can subscribe, renew, or give a gift. Buy now and pay later. You will be billed and only checks or money orders are accepted at this time. Conservationist makes a great gift to yourself or another outdoor enthusiast! | 
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