DEC TO HOLD MEETING ON AMENDMENT TO THE ELM RIDGE UNIT
MANAGEMENT PLAN TO INCLUDE NEW MT. HAYDEN PARCEL

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will hold a public meeting to provide information and gather public input for the development of an amendment to the Elm Ridge Wild Forest Unit Management Plan (UMP) to incorporate the 806-acre Mt. Hayden parcel located in the town of Windham, Greene County.

The meeting will he held on Wednesday, August 10 at 6:00 p.m. at the Mountain Top Library, 6093 Main St., Tannersville. DEC is seeking input to help establish a long-term vision and specific goals for management of this property which is part of the Elm Ridge Wild Forest. The 806-acre parcel is located in the New York City watershed and was transferred to DEC in 2012 from New York City to provide for continued recreational use consistent with watershed protection.

The parcel has the potential to expand on several recreational activities that are popular in the area. It’s a popular destination for hunters who pursue ruffed grouse, wild turkey, woodcock, white-tail deer and black bear.

DEC will use the information gathered during this process as it develops a draft amendment for the unit. The finalized amendment will guide future uses and management of the area and will include an analysis of the natural features of the area and an examination of the land for its ability to accommodate multiple uses. UMPs are a collaborative effort between DEC and the public in developing long-term plans for the state's public lands. Public involvement is extremely important in the creation and revision of UMPs, as it provides staff with valuable information and insight regarding public priorities and perspectives.

Those wishing to contribute to the planning discussion but unable to attend the session may submit comments via mail or e-mail. Additional public input will be sought when the draft amendment is released for public review and comment.

Written comments and suggestions regarding the use of the lands will be accepted by DEC until Sept. 26. Comments should be sent to: Maxwell Wolckenhauer, NYSDEC Region 4 Stamford suboffice, 65561 State Highway 10, Suite 1 Stamford, NY 12167; e-mail: r4ump@gw.dec.state.ny.us.