August 2015 Outdoor Discovery Newsletter

August 2015 Outdoor Discovery Newsletter

august 2015 outdoor discovery banner
New York State has wonderful recreational opportunities which will be highlighted for you each month. Start planning your next adventure now!

August 2015 Conservationist cover

In the August issue ofConservationist: find inner peace by conquering the 46 peaks; see how the forest has rebounded after the ’95 blowdown; join biologists as they combat the spread of the southern pine beetle on Long Island; and step back in time to classic Winslow Homer scenes with Michael Ringer’s awe-inspiring artwork. All this and more in the AugustConservationist. Subscribe online or call 1-800-678-6399. 


DEC Events

Citizen Science Bat Count – 8/7
Bees and Butterflies – 8/8
Family Fishing at Norrie Point – 8/9
Guided Walk: Turkey and Old Field Trails – 8/22
Saltwater Fishing and Crabbing Clinic – 8/26
Full Green Corn Moon Walk – 8/28

See more upcoming events


Nature Notes

beaver swimming

A beaver’s large front teeth are always growing and are kept at a manageable length by the gnawing action used to get food.


Safe and Sound

crabbing with tongs

When crabbing, handle your catch with tongs to avoid getting pinched.


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Download our free New York Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife Appfrom the Apple App store or Google Play store.


Explore for FREE

You can explore many state lands free of charge. However, some state campgrounds and day-use areas charge a small fee, depending on the season (campsite rentals extra).


Let Us Know

We hope you enjoy this newsletter and will share information about your favorite hiking spot or recreation activity, or an outdoor tip with us. Your feedback is always welcome. E-mail us.

If you like this newsletter, please forward it to your friends.


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Fishing and Crabbing on Long Island

Two men holding up their fishing catch
Whether you’ve never fished before or you’re an expert, Long Island has hundreds of miles of beautiful shoreline for your fishing and crabbing pleasure at its county and state parks, as well as a national seashore. Long Island is abundant with fish and crabs and offers endless opportunities to enjoy your day catching its delicious bounty.

If you’d like some training to help in your adventures, the I FISH NY program offers free fishing and crabbing clinics for the whole family during the summer at various sites around Long Island. Visit DEC’s website to view upcoming clinics.


Hike of the Month: Saint Francis Woodlands

a group bird watching
Staten Island, Richmond County
Saint Francis Woodlands, part of the Staten Island Greenbelt, encompasses a beautiful and diverse 25 acres. This tranquil space is perfect for communing with nature. Many activities can be enjoyed, including wildlife viewing and bird watching, photography and hiking. Three trails, each less than a half-mile long, encourage exploration of the forested hills and upland swamp habitats.

At the state-owned Richmond County Country Club, hikers will find sparkling Priory Pond delightful. In addition, wonderful views all the way to lower New York bay are sure to captivate, and the rolling topography will leave a lasting impression.

Originally owned by a Franciscan seminary during the 1800s, this land was sold to New York State in 1998. Purchased through the EPF, it is designated for passive recreation under NYC’s Open Space Plan.


Watchable Wildlife: Beaver Lake Nature Center

kids at beaver lake
Baldwinsville, Onondaga County
August is a peak month for wildlife viewing, and 660-acre Beaver Lake Nature Center is the perfect place to do it. Hike miles of trails, or paddle a canoe on the 200-acre lake (rentals available) to observe wildlife in many habitats.

Birds include ospreys, bald eagles, indigo buntings, pileated woodpeckers, Canada geese and many more. Look for beaver, white-tailed deer, turtles, frogs and many unique wild plants too. Summer programs include a Breakfast Canoe Tour, Sharing Nature with Your Child, Nature on Wheels (for people with mobility limitations), Weekend Guided Walks and the Field Guide Series.


History and Scenic Views at Crown Point Campground

Crown Point Public Campground
Crown Point, Essex County
Enjoy some of the most majestic views in New York State (and sneak in a little history) at the Crown Point Public Campground. Located directly on the lower southwestern shore of Lake Champlain, the campground rests over battlefields and fort locations dating back to 1775. Remnants of structures and sites remain, including the stunning lighthouse built in 1858.

The 66 sites are blanketed with grass all summer long. Power boats, rowboats and canoes are allowed, and there is a boat launch on the grounds. Anglers will delight in the opportunity to catch one of the lake’s major species: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, bullhead, yellow perch, brown trout and lake trout. Children can participate in the Junior Naturalist Program to earn a beautiful embroidered patch.

The historic forts Crown Point and Fort St. Frederic are adjacent to the campground, and Fort Ticonderoga is 10 miles away. The French and Indian War Encampment weekend takes place Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9. Visit military camps, and watch reenactors play the parts of British and French soldiers and woodland and Canadian militiamen.

Visit Reserve America to book a site through September 6.


Great New York State Fair – August 27 through September 7, 2015

People looking at the fish in the DEC Aquarium
Syracuse, Onondaga County
Come visit DEC’s exhibits at the Great New York State Fair! The DEC Aquarium will contain cold and warm water game fish raised at DEC’s hatcheries, including prehistoric-looking lake sturgeon and the aptly named paddlefish. While at the fair, you can buy your new hunting and fishing licenses and get a great deal on a Conservationist magazine subscription.

DEC’s Log Cabin is just a short walk from the Aquarium and features a full-size Adirondack fire tower and a display from the Big Buck Club. Pose for a photo in front of a logging skidder and receive a free tree seedling from the Saratoga Tree Nursery while supplies last.

August 2015 DEC Outdoor Discovery Newsletter © New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

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Author: Harlem Valley News