NYS Forest Preserves: Balancing Access & Conservation

July 30, 2021

A virtual conversation on balancing recreational use and resource protection in New York State Forest Preserves. Features experts from the Catskill Center, the Catskill Science Collaborative, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Adirondack Mountain Club.

Visitation to the Catskill and Adirondack Parks is booming. More people connecting with nature in New York State’s Forest Preserves is a good thing. But trail erosion, bear encounters, litter, traffic, safety, and damage to popular sites are just some of the challenges in managing resources for all. How can people get the most out of their time in Forest Preserves while doing the least harm?

Discover challenges presented by increased visitation to New York State Forest Preserves, opportunities to balance use, and best-practices to minimize impacts to the environment. Topics discussed include: outdoor ethics, science-based site management, accessibility, traffic easing options, and the evolving role of park stewards.

Interviewer Allison Dunne delves into the issues with panelists Joshua Ginsberg (Cary Institute/Catskill Science Collaborative), Andy Mossey (Catskill Center), Kelly Turturro (NYSDEC), and Michael Barrett (Adirondack Mountain Club). Dunne is part of the Catskill Center staff and former Hudson Valley Bureau Chief at WAMC Northeast Public Radio.

Learn how social media has caused certain sites to boom, how visitors can work with park staff to spread use among alternative sites, how bussing and shuttles can ease congestion, the importance of ‘Leave No Trace’ education, and how science is informing sustainable access.