Blog

Read about Governor Hochul's budget proposal and her appointments to the Road Salt Task Force, the new Executive Director of the Adirondack Park Agency, and more.

In this blog, you can read about the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus' visit to the Park, the Governor's appointment of John Ernst to chair the APA, and more.

Adirondack Park enthusiasts are used to experiencing a Park that undergoes frequent changes, whether it be the seasons or natural events like falling trees and beaver damming. But the most notable changes coming to the Park may actually be at the Adirondack Park Agency. Read on to find out why.

Spring is here, and many are pulling their hiking gear out of their closets and putting their winter coats away. Spring is a time of hope and opportunity, and there is great potential as the state Legislature resumes its session after completing the budget process and taking a brief hiatus. The Adirondack Council is hopeful that our representatives will use this opportunity to pass legislation to reform to the Adirondack Park Agency Act and all-terrain vehicle use.

Last year, Governor Cuomo"s Adirondack Park Agency released the Department of Environmental Conservation's Grass River Unit Management Plan for public comment, which if approved would permit public All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use on the Adirondack Forest Preserve. This proposed action would run contrary to the policy of the last three administrations. This policy shift represents an emerging threat to our Adirondack legacy.

As we enjoy the holiday season, reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to the next, will you do one more thing for the Adirondacks? There's still time to send a letter to the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) and tell them that you want motor-free Wilderness for the Boreas Ponds. The APA will accept your comments until Friday, December 30.

Hundreds of people from across New York State turned out at hearings hosted by the Adirondack Park Agency in November and December to express their opinions on how the state should classify the Boreas Ponds tract. We would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone that has taken the time to write and speak up for Wilderness!

The Adirondack Park Agency is undergoing significant changes in leadership. Two long-time board members will retire at the end of the month, including the chairwoman, while three new members were appointed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and confirmed by the state Senate. Retiring at the end of June are chairwoman Leilani C. Ulrich of Old Forge and board member Richard Booth of Ithaca.

We are at a tipping point in the Adirondack Park. Both threats and opportunities seem greater than ever, with excitement swirling over the state acquisition of the Boreas Ponds tract and recent concerns expressed by Adirondack Park Agency (APA) board member Dick Booth about the trajectory of the agency.