Catskill Center Applauds DEC’s Draft Policy to Improve Inclusive Access to the Forest Preserve

The Catskill Center welcomes the release of the Draft Policy for the Use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) on NYSDEC-managed lands, which responds to calls from partners in the Catskills and Adirondacks for a clear, statewide accessibility framework that expands equitable access for people with mobility disabilities while upholding Article XIV of the State Constitution, State Land Master Plans, and the protection of Forest Preserve and other conserved lands. The Catskill Center thanks DEC for the development of this draft and we look forward to providing comments, engaging with regional partners, and participating in public meetings to help ensure the final policy both broadens access to high-quality outdoor recreation and safeguards the unique natural natural resources of the Catskills.

The draft Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) Policy can be found at https://dec.ny.gov/places-to-go/accessible-recreation/mappwd/other-power-driven-mobility-devices-opdmd-policy