If you believe we’re the master of our actions, think again. Better yet, have a fungus, bacterium, or protozoan tell you what to think. Jedi mind tricks are nothing compared to what microbes can do to animals, human and otherwise. [Read more…] about Microbial Ecology: Mind Control, Fecal Transplants & Zombie Laternflies
Nature
Loon Calls & Other Vocalizations
On the New Hampshire lake where I spend much of the summer, loon calls are so common that I sometimes take them for granted.
The sounds of the common loon (Gavia immer) are iconic of wilderness and have been described as haunting, plaintive, maniacal, other-worldly, even wolf-like. [Read more…] about Loon Calls & Other Vocalizations
NNY Wildlife Management Areas Opening August 16th
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the annual opening to the public of otherwise restricted Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties from Tuesday, August 16th, to Wednesday, August 31st.
During the 16-day open house, Upper and Lower Lakes and Wilson Hill WMAs in St. Lawrence County, including the posted refuge or wetland restricted areas, will be open to visitors each day from sunrise to sunset. Perch River WMA in Jefferson County will also be open to visitors with one exception-Perch Lake will be open daily from noon to sunset. [Read more…] about NNY Wildlife Management Areas Opening August 16th
Fourth Lake Boat Launch Closing For Repairs
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is notifying the public that the Fourth Lake Boat Launch in the town of Inlet, Hamilton County, NY, will be temporarily closed starting Monday, September 12th.
The closure will allow DEC to make repairs and improvements to the launch. The public boat launch will re-open in spring 2023. [Read more…] about Fourth Lake Boat Launch Closing For Repairs
Franklin, Union Falls Ponds Projects Enhance Access
The Northern Forest Canoe Trail has completed a series of stewardship projects that improve access to Franklin Falls Pond (also known as Franklin Falls Flow) and Union Falls Pond (also known as Union Falls Flow) and mitigate negative environmental impacts to both water bodies. [Read more…] about Franklin, Union Falls Ponds Projects Enhance Access
Skaneateles Lake Watershed Property Protected by Easement
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) have announced the permanent protection of 234 acres at Casa Farms in the town of Niles, Cayuga County, with a conservation easement.
[Read more…] about Skaneateles Lake Watershed Property Protected by Easement
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Orange County Man Ticketed After Killing Rattlesnake
According to a press release issued by DEC, in July, Environmental Conservation Officers in Orange County, NY received a tip from the Woodbury Police Department about a rattlesnake found dead in a driveway with its head cut off and rattle missing. [Read more…] about Orange County Man Ticketed After Killing Rattlesnake
Champlain Valley Cultural Heritage Grants Available
The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) is seeking pre-proposals for projects and programs to protect, restore, interpret, and showcase the historical resources and cultural heritage of the Champlain Valley, the Lake Champlain Basin, and the Adirondack Park. [Read more…] about Champlain Valley Cultural Heritage Grants Available
Recreation Highlight: Lyon Mountain Fire Tower
With a rich history of mining, Lyon Mountain is a towering peak in the Chazy Highlands Wild Forest in Clinton County, NY.
The mining started in the 1860s and continued until 1967. It produced some of the purest iron ore in the world, and some of that ore was even used to build the Golden Gate Bridge. [Read more…] about Recreation Highlight: Lyon Mountain Fire Tower