MEET THE NEW CATSKILL PARK COORDINATOR THE NATURE OF STREAMS TALES FROM A RIDGE RUNNER
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GREAT OUTDOOR EXPO
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WHAT’S NEW AT THE CATSKILL CENTER
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FEATURED ARTIST: TODD SPIRE
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SUMMER GATHERING, GREAT OUTDOOR EXPO
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THE NATURE OF STREAMS
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STORIES FROM THE FIRST RIDGE RUNNER
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ICE, DEER, AND PLATTE CLOVE
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MEET THE CATSKILL PARK COORDINATOR
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ENDNOTE
ABOUT US: Since 1969, the Catskill Center has protected and fostered the environmental, cultural, and economic well-being of the Catskill region. Our mission is to ensure a bright future for the Catskills by preserving our environment, expanding our economy, and celebrating our culture.
Become a member at: catskillcenter.org/membership
43355 Route 28, Arkville, NY 12406 | cccd@catskillcenter.org | 845.586.2611
FRONT AND INSIDE COVER PHOTOGRAPHS BY TODD SPIRE
CONTENTS
STAFF CONTRIBUTORS SPRING 2022 JEFF SENTERMAN Jeff grew up spending weekends in the mountains, and when he’s not steering the ship that is the Catskill Center, can often be found atop a local peak. His column, Endnote, appears in each issue. Jeff is the Executive Director of the Catskill Center.
ALLISON DUNNE After a career in journalism, Allison joined the Catskill Center to tell stories in a different realm as the Communications Manager. She conducted the Catskill Park Coordinator interview, wrote Ice, Deer, and Platte Clove, and is one of the magazine’s editors.
KELLI HUGGINS Kelli is an educator, historian, and native Catskillite, and a Visitor Experience Coordinator at the Catskills Visitor Center. She copy edits the magazine.
SARAH MCGINNIS For this issue, Sarah handled the layout and graphic design work. Sarah is the Exhibit, Outreach and Marketing Coordinator for the Catskills Visitor Center.
LEE ALEXANDER Lee is the Streamside Acquisition Program (SAP) Director and has worked for the Catskill Center since 2019. She wrote The Nature of Streams for this issue.
JENNY FLAVIN Jenny is the Visitor Experience and Steward Coordinator for the Catskills Visitor Center. She wrote about her experience as the Catskill Center’s first Ridge Runner for this issue.
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WHAT’S NEW AT THE CATSKILL CENTER WELCOME TO OUR NEW STAFF MEMBER: JENNY FLAVIN, VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND STEWARD COORDINATOR, CATSKILLS VISITOR CENTER Jenny started working at the Catskill Center in 2019 as a seasonal Catskill Steward, honing her skills and passion for outdoor conservation. Jenny served as the Head Steward in 2020 and as the Program’s first Ridge Runner for the 2021 season, educating visitors along the difficult Devil’s Path. Jenny has a B.S. in Anthropology with a focus on environmental and cultural relationships from SUNY New Paltz. She developed a passion for the outdoors at a young age through backpacking, hiking, and camping with her family. Now you can find her hiking or running the trails, practicing Canicross with her two dogs, making art, stand-up paddleboarding, or searching out remote and unusual places to explore. (Read about Jenny’s
COME WORK WITH US! We’re hiring Visitor Services Assistants, Catskill Stewards, Catskill Fire Tower Stewards, and Invasive Species Strike Team Technicians. Visit catskillcenter.org/opportunities for more details.
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PHOTO: COURTESY OF JENNY FLAVIN
experience as the Catskill Center’s first Ridge Runner on p. 22)
...AND IN THE CATSKILLS TROUT FISHING REGULATIONS HAVE CHANGED BY TODD SPIRE In 2021, New York completed a ten-year study to overhaul the systems by which it manages trout waters statewide. This included not only how to more appropriately stock rivers and lakes with trout, but also how to classify and manage waters to balance recreational concerns with the specific needs of each fishery. As the Catskills are such a uniquely perfect environment for trout habitat, the resulting classification system found a number of rivers capable of sustaining their own wild trout populations without the need for supplemental stocking of hatchery-raised trout. In fact, two Catskills streams, of only seven in the entire state, received the highest "Wild-Premier" designation. With several other major streams and tributaries receiving a wild designation, the Catskills now boasts about a dozen self-sustaining wild trout fishing destinations. The Esopus Creek and the East and West Branches of the Delaware River are included on the list. Along with the new regulations for stocking comes decreased creellimits for keeping fish in wild rivers. Please be sure to check that you’re compliant when fishing. In most cases, creel limits on wild rivers have dropped from five to three fish per day. Also, keep in mind that some of the newly designated wild rivers need some time for their populations to rebound in the absence of large numbers of trout which are no longer being stocked. Many local fisheries experts suggest a few years of catch-and-release fishing to allow for populations to re-normalize. Lastly, trout fishing is now legal every day of the year, however, what was previously the off-season is now catch-and-release with artificial lures only, and no trout may be kept between October 16 and March 31. For more information, consult the fishing area of the DEC website here: dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html And a new interactive fishing map here: dec.ny.gov/outdoor/122444.html
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FEATURED ARTIST: TODD SPIRE Todd Spire is the founder of Esopus Creel in Phoenicia, a guided fly-fishing business. He is a lifelong fisherman with the study of fine arts in his repertoire. Spire describes himself as one part artist and one part entrepreneur. His photography has been featured in Eastern Fly Fishing Magazine and won the Orvis 2017 Fly Fishing Photo Contest. Spire serves on the Board of the Ashokan-Pepacton Chapter of Trout Unlimited as well as on the Board of the John Burroughs Woodchuck Lodge. Esopus Creel enters its sixth year of business in 2022, and two of its years were spent during the COVID-19 pandemic, which actually yielded some positives. Spire says that with some people moving into their Catskills weekend homes during the pandemic, he was able to line up tours and instruction during the week, and pivot from 16-hour days on the weekends. Plus, the number of trips has increased each year since the launch of Esopus Creel, with 95 trips completed in 2021. Spire says being surrounded by the beauty of the Catskill Mountains while standing in the Esopus Creek with fly-fishing rod in hand is unequivocal. "The meditative quality of fly fishing is what attracts me to it," said Spire. He says fly fishing requires attention, skill and concentration if one is to succeed. "If you’re fly fishing and thinking about bills, you will not be successful." Look for more of Todd’s photographs throughout this issue. For more information on his work, visit esopuscreel.com. 7
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THE SUMMER GATHERING, THE GREAT OUTDOOR EXPO,
Our annual Summer Gathering returns this year (in person!), Friday, June 10, 2022, from 5 pm - 8 pm. We’re also holding our Catskills Great Outdoor Expo, Saturday, June 11, 2022, from 10 am - 3 pm. Both events will be held at the Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper. The Summer Gathering will spotlight a panel discussion entitled “State of the Catskills,” featuring stewards of the region’s environment, economy, and culture. Following the discussion, there will be games, activities, a bonfire, and an opportunity to meet your Catskills neighbors. The Catskills Great Outdoor Expo features the best the Catskills have to offer in hiking, paddling, bicycling, and other outdoor recreation activities. This 8
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LEFT PHOTO: CATSKILLS GREAT OUTDOOR EXPO IN 2019. RIGHT PHOTO: COURTESY OF HEATHER BAGSHAW.
AND WHY THEY ATTRACT PARTICIPANTS
one-day Expo will be filled with dozens of exhibitors from the outdoor tourism industry and nonprofits in the Catskills. There will be activities for all ages, food, presentations, raffle prizes, and, drum roll please, the Catskills Great Outdoor Gear Sale. Catskills Magazine asked a few participants for their thoughts on the events. Heather Bagshaw is Director of Greene County Tourism and a panelist on the Summer Gathering’s “State of the Catskills” panel. Why are you participating in the State of the Catskills panel discussion? The Catskills are an important tourism destination for New York State. It’s necessary to share the successes as well as identify needs to keep the Catskills top of mind for all stakeholders. What makes the Catskills unique? The Catskills offer great outdoor experiences for visitors and are a destination filled with not only recreation but boutique lodging experiences, festivals and events, craft beverage makers, and much more! As someone who is involved in local tourism and the growth of this region, what changes or observations have you noticed in the Catskills recently? The State has provided the much-needed funding for trail updates, wilderness protection, and activities to address issues related to overuse; however, it is lacking in full tourism destination marketing funding for the entire tourism region, outside of the Catskill Park. How does it feel to be back for in-person events? I am absolutely ecstatic about being in person. As an organization that thrives on partnerships, meeting in person is crucial to understanding not only the topic in discussion but the person who is delivering it.
Liz Callahan is the former Executive Director of Hanford Mills Museum and also part of the Summer Gathering’s “State of the Catskills” panel discussion. Why are you participating in the “State of the I was really honored to be included in the “State of the Catskills” panel discussion. I am participating because I have been working in the museums in Delaware County for almost thirty years (since 1993) and I think I have a unique perspective on not just arts and culture in the Catskills, but how these resources intersect with a variety of things including community, economic sustainability, education and the future (not just the past) of our communities, and tourism and the changing demographics of the region. What makes the Catskills unique, particularly in the realm of our arts and culture? The Catskills are rich with artistic and cultural resources. The natural beauty has attracted and inspired artists for more than a century, and so much of what we think of as the “cultural resources” of the Catskills remain intact and authentic because — although many of our communities are no longer strictly “agricultural” — their geography, sparse populations and modest economic resources have, for the most part, left much of the Catskills relatively unscathed by the “homogeneous” cookie-cutter economic development that has impacted so many other areas to a greater or lesser degree. With this lack of development, the character of many of our communities has remained intact and inspired an authentic cultural “sense of place” that so many other regions have lost. This sense of place, combined with deeplyrooted populations with strong connections to their communities’ traditions, is the foundation of the unique artistic and cultural environment. And over the generations, visitors who appreciate the authenticity of the culture of the Catskills have added new layers of artistic and cultural resources.
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LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZ CALLAHAN. RIGHT PHOTO: HANFORD MILLS TABLE AT A PAST CATSKILLS VISITOR CENTER EVENT.
Catskills” panel discussion?
One of the most important aspects of what makes the Catskills unique is this authenticity of place. In the eye of the great synergy it has generated, it’s important to remember the fragility of the authenticity it’s rooted in. What are your thoughts on the Catskill Center’s role in the region? For half a century, the Catskill Center has played an important role in the economic and environmental sustainability of the region. Without sustainability on these levels, our artistic and cultural resources can not thrive. The Catskill Center’s role in our region’s sustainability and resilience plays an important role on many levels. How does it feel to be back for in-person events? Great!
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Ryan Penny of Camp Catskill, a new outdoor gear store in Tannersville, will be participating as an exhibitor at the Expo. What makes the Catskills unique? I love the way T. Morris Longstreth put it in his book The Catskills. “My only criticism of the Catskills as mountains is their reluctance to come to the point.” To me, that’s part of what makes this such an enjoyable hiking and camping destination. The Catskills are a great place to wander, whether for a few hours, or a few days. Expert or novice, anyone can have a memorable experience in nature here. What are your thoughts on the Catskill Center’s role in the region? New Yorkers are an outspoken bunch, so there can be a lot of loud voices on all sides of any discussion that takes place here. True sustainability requires a delicate balance between conservation and development for the betterment of our entire society. We’re so lucky to have an organization that is fully committed to receiving input from diverse stakeholders and distilling that input into steady progress. What excites you about being an exhibitor at the Expo? The opportunity to meet and learn from the wide variety of people that the Catskill Center works with every day. How does it feel to be back for in-person events? already met more new people than in the last two years prior. Bring on the Roaring 2020s!
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PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN PENNY
Incredible! Having just opened our shop in Tannersville recently, I think I’ve
Join us for a fun-filled weekend at the Catskills Visitor Center!
SUMMER GATHERING June 10, 5:00 - 8:00 PM
June 11, 10:00am - 3:00pm Visit catskillcenter.org/ events for more information 13
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THE NATURE OF STREAMS
It’s springtime in the Catskills, which can bring lots of rain, and all that water has to go somewhere. When heavy spring rains fall in our abundant Catskills forests, tree branches and newly emerged leaves intercept the raindrops, slowing them down. Water then drips onto the leaf-littered forest floor, soaking in slowly instead of running off in a rush. Forests also shade late spring snow cover, holding it for longer and allowing it to melt little by little, percolating into the soil. Once underground, soil particles filter the water as the water moves toward the nearest stream, ensuring an influx of clean, cool water into the creek. Eastern brook trout love these clean, cool headwater streams, and anglers love these fish! As creeks head downhill, they gain speed and force, and pick up sediment. In the Catskills, this often means reddish-brown clay particles are suspended in the water, especially during times of high flow. High flows are normal in the spring, and to a lesser extent, in the fall. These high flows mean there is a lot of water all at once, which can lead to destructive erosion and flooding. Fish are generally well adapted to high flows, which stir up food sources and rebuild the streambed, creating new in-stream habitats (though fish do sometimes get washed downstream). Homes, roads, and businesses right next to the flooding creek can be less resilient. Nature’s solution is for the water to spread out and slow down once it hits those flatter valleys. Creekside floodplains and wetlands naturally absorb surplus water, holding onto it until the high water recedes. Historically, though, flat land near water is where people often locate homes, roads, and businesses, and that doesn’t always leave natural flood waters with a place to go. Protecting undeveloped floodplains and moving existing structures to uplands helps get floodplains back to
PHOTO: TODD SPIRE
doing the job that they do best – absorbing and storing flood waters.
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Floodplains are more than just sponges for floodwaters, however. Floodplain forests that have never been tilled or developed are some of the most vulnerable and least protected habitats in the Northeast. According to the New York State Natural Heritage Program website, "floodplain forests once covered wide stretches along rivers in New York, SPRING 2022
CATSKILL CENTER
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yet only a tiny fraction of this original extent remains today." You can distinguish a floodplain forest by the silver maple, box elder, sycamore, and cottonwood trees that dominate its flats, and you might even spy a rare plant species such as the green dragon (Arisaema dracontium). Even where stream banks are lined with woods that don’t tend to flood, these streamside forests (riparian buffers) are incredibly important as wildlife corridors and water quality protectors. Valley roads often follow streams. The asphalt, concrete, buildings, and other impervious surfaces on and along these roads generate fast runoff, carrying trash, leaked motor oil, and other contaminants directly into streams. Forested buffers alongside streams are critical for catching and filtering runoff and contaminants before they reach the water. Buffers of shrubs and grassland can also slow, trap, and filter runoff, but forested stream buffers have the added benefit of cooling water before it reaches the stream, which is critical for fish like brook trout. Wooded buffers also remove more nitrogen (e.g., from lawn and crop fertilizers) than grassy buffers, and they are more resistant to colonization by harmful invasive plants. How does the Catskill Center help protect streams in the Catskills? There are many ways. The Catskill Center works to protect streams, riparian buffers, floodplains, and wetlands through its Streamside Acquisition Program, or SAP. Another way is through our Catskill Stewards Program, through which Catskill Center staff educate visitors to help prevent trampling, erosion, and overuse along streams at treasured Catskills sites, including the Peekamoose Blue Hole, Kaaterskill Falls, and the Center’s own Platte Clove Preserve. The Catskill Center also helps to conserve the integrity of riparian buffers through its Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership, or CRISP, which is a collaborative of organizations and agencies that works cooperatively to promote prevention, early detection, rapid response, and control of invasive species to protect natural resources, the economy, and human health.
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Wondering what you can do to keep the stream on your property healthy? Check out the suite of stream-friendly programs at catskillstreams.org, or take a look at New York State’s Trees for Tribs program (dec.ny.gov/animals/77710.html). To learn more about the Catskill Center’s SAP, CRISP or Catskills Stewards Program, visit catskillcenter.org.
FACT SHEET: WHAT IS THE STREAMSIDE ACQUISITION PROGRAM (SAP)? The Streamside Acquisition Program, or SAP, protects water quality in streams of the northeastern Catskills through the purchase of streamside lands. The SAP is run by the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development in partnership with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP), as one of many programs required by regulators to help protect the City’s drinking water at its source. For 53 years, the Catskill Center has been working to protect and foster the environmental, cultural, and economic well-being of the Catskill region. The Streamside Acquisition Program furthers that mission. WHERE DOES THE SAP FOCUS? To be eligible for purchase through the SAP, a property must: l Be located within the drainage basin of the Schoharie Reservoir, which includes many of the mountaintop towns of Greene County, plus small portions of Delaware and Schoharie Counties; l Include a stream, floodplain, wetland, or other lands within 300 feet of a stream or 1,000 feet of a NYC DEP reservoir*; l Have no residential structures on the portion of the land to be purchased by the SAP (many people choose to sell only part of their land, along the stream, while retaining their home or land that could be suitable for a home in the future);
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l Be located outside of areas identified by municipalities as ‘Designated Hamlet,’ which are areas intended for future growth. The SAP does not and will not reach out to landowners in these areas unless invited to do so by the municipality through a formal resolution. When people who own land in a designated hamlet call us, we encourage them to speak with their town or village board. HOW DOES THE SAP HELP COMMUNITIES? l
Sticking Close to Streams – The SAP tightly focuses on
properties that make the biggest difference for protecting water quality. Most of the acreage the SAP acquires consists of streams, floodplains, wetlands, or other lands within 300 feet of streams. SAP staff encourage landowners to keep their more developable lands in private hands, selling the wetter areas to the SAP. Because of this tight focus, the SAP doesn’t need to buy large swaths of land. The SAP’s largest single purchase was 24 acres, and the smallest was 0.4 acres. On average, the SAP has acquired 14 acres per municipality since 2015. The most land acquired in any one town was 63 acres in eight separate purchases. The SAP’s focused approach exemplifies the National Academy of Sciences’ recent recommendation to NYC DEP to "focus on acquisition of the most valuable lands for water quality protection." l
Increasing Flood Resilience – Undeveloped floodplains and
wetlands naturally absorb flood waters during heavy rains, storing excess water and releasing it slowly over time. Keeping development out of the floodplain helps ensure a community’s future flood resilience. The SAP helps by protecting undeveloped floodplain areas. This complements Local Flood Analyses (LFAs) and the FEMA and NYC Flood Buyout Programs, which focus on relocating existing development out of the floodplain. l Preserving the Tax Base – Streamside lands purchased through the SAP are owned and managed by NYC DEP after purchase. In keeping with the 1997 Memorandum of Agreement between NYC
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DEP and Catskills municipalities, NYC DEP pays property taxes on lands acquired through the Streamside Acquisition Program. l Expanding Flexibility – The Catskill Center, NYC DEP, state and federal regulators, and municipalities are engaged in discussions that may result in an expansion of options available under the SAP for the benefit of both landowners and communities. These include options for towns and land trusts to hold SAP-acquired land and conservation easements. l Honoring Community Goals – We strive to implement the SAP in ways that complement community goals. Catskill Center SAP staff regularly reach out to all the municipalities within the Schoharie Reservoir drainage basin to ask how the SAP can help towns and villages to enhance their communities. HOW DOES IT WORK? If you think you might be interested in selling some of your streamside land, email us at sap@catskillcenter.org. With your permission, we’ll take a walk with you on your land, and talk with you about which streamside lands you’d like to sell and which upland areas you’d like to keep for future development. If it feels like a good fit for everyone, we can arrange for a professional, independent appraisal of the land you’d like to sell, at no cost to you. The sale price would equal the appraised value, and some properties also qualify for additional incentive payments and reimbursement of landowners’ costs. All conversations remain confidential until and unless you enter into a contract to sell your property; at that point, your town board would be afforded an opportunity to comment on the pending sale, as is routine for all lands to be owned by NYC DEP. NYC DEP will provide input, review, and approval at various stages of the transaction. That collaborative process can take time, and most landowners find that the transaction can take anywhere from 18-24 months, start to finish. *
Eligibility for the Streamside Acquisition Program is detailed in Section 9 of the 2010 NYC Water Supply Permit;
please contact us at sap@catskillcenter.org with any questions.
Want to learn more? Please reach out to us at sap@catskillcenter.org. 19
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THANK YOU BUSINESS MEMBERS! We would like to recognize these businesses for their generosity. When you do business with them, you support the Catskill Center and the entire region.
BUSINESS LEADERS ($5,000+) CATSKILL WATERSHED CORPORATION BUSINESS PARTNERS ($1000+) RXR SPORTS COSMIK ICE CREAM BUSINESS FRIENDS ($500+) WOODSTOCK CHIMES FUND BOVINA CENTER MONTESSORI SCHOOL BUGGED OUT LAMONT ENGINEERS, PC OTTO & FRIENDS BUSINESS STEWARDS ($250+) EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS LVDV OPERATIONS, INC.
SAFECO ALARM SYSTEMS, INC. SLUITER AGENCY, INC.
BUSINESS MEMBERS ($100+) PHOENICIA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION GREEN LABEL HOMES RED SQUARE DESIGN KAATERSKILL MARKET EMPIRE STATE TRAIL RENTALS SILVER HOLLOW AUDIO ESOPUS CREEK CONSERVANCY PINE HILL TRAILWAYS TENDER LAND HOME
STORY FARMS LLC STEWARD SAND AND GRAVEL HARMONY HILL LODGING & RETREAT CENTER COLDWELL BANKER TIMBERLAND PROPERTIES TROUT UNLIMITED ASOKAN-PEPACTON WATERSHED CHAPTER PHOENICIA LODGE ERICKSON’S AUTOMOTIVE, INC.
For more information on how to become a business member, visit catskillcenter. org/businessmembership 20
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Your tax-deductible donation supports healthy ecosystems and vibrant communities throughout the Catskill region. Catskillcenter.org/membership Or complete this form and mail to:
Become a Member Individual ($35) Dual / Family ($50) Senior/Student ($25) BENEFITS INCLUDE: SUBSCRIPTION to the Catskill Center’s quarterly Catskills magazine with news from the Catskill Center and across the Catskill Region. 10% DISCOUNT on purchases at the Catskills Visitor Center, all Catskill Center facilities, and Campmor in Paramus, NJ with presentation of member card.
CATSKILL CENTER P.O. BOX 504 ARKVILLE, NY 12406 NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE PHONE EMAIL
MEMBERSHIP LEVEL $35 — Individual $50 — Dual / Family $25 — Senior/Student $100 — Partnering member $250 — Benefactor $500 — Leadership Circle $1,000 — President’s Circle
MEMBER-ONLY INVITATIONS to the Annual Gathering, lectures, and special events. MEMBER PROGRAM SERIES ACCESS TO THE CATSKILL CENTER ARCHIVES at the Erpf Center in Arkville. Please contact the Catskill Center to schedule an appointment.
AMOUNT
MEMBER PACKAGE Members receive a membership package in the mail, including a member card and a Catskill Center cling sticker. 21
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ZIP
CARD # EXPIRATION CVC
THE CATSKILL CENTER’S FIRST
RIDGE RUNNER SHARES HER EXPERIENCE
Working as the Ridge Runner during the 2021 season was not only an amazing experience personally but a great opportunity to grow the for two years before taking on the Devil's Path as the program’s first Ridge Runner. As opposed to other Catskill Stewards who stay mostly at the trailheads or in more frontcountry locations, a Ridge Runner traverses more remote trails, with the goal of reaching people along the way or on summit lookouts. Ridge Runners often hike up to eight miles a day and sometimes camp out overnight at popular areas.
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PHOTO COURTESY JENNY FLAVIN
Catskill Center’s Catskill Stewards Program. I worked as a Catskill Steward
I knew this would be a different
the frontcountry, most of this
experience from stewarding
education is about preparing
our other locations, but I had
hikers before they head off down
no idea just how different.
the trail. When it comes to more
Though it was a completely new
backcountry locations like the
experience for the program, we
Devil's Path, a Ridge Runner is in
had a good sense of what worked
a unique position to help hikers
at the trailheads and high-use
leave the least impact and be
areas where our stewards are
as safe as possible with what
traditionally stationed. It was a
they have brought with them.
matter of adapting these skills
There are times when I came
to a more backcountry location.
across hikers who were not
The Devil’s Path is a 24.2-mile
prepared for the trail they were
trail that encompasses five
attempting to complete that
peaks, all of which are over
day. It then becomes the Ridge
3,500 feet. It is considered to be
Runner’s job to help them figure
the most difficult hike not only
out what they could realistically
in the Catskills, but the entire
complete without compromising
tri-state region. Increased use of
their safety or that of others.
the Devil's Path during the 2019 and 2020 seasons contributed
The first thing I noticed was how
to its being a top choice to site
visitors responded to meeting a
the new Ridge Runner program.
Steward on the Devil's Path. Just about everyone I talked with was
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Overall, Catskill Stewards play
excited to have a conversation.
an exceptionally important role
People wanted more information;
in helping to educate visitors of
they wanted to chat and share a
the Catskill Park on responsible
snack break. When I explained
outdoor recreation. Stewards are
to people why I was there, they
the welcoming faces that help
wanted to find ways to help, and
spread awareness of human
to learn skills to help protect the
impacts on the land. They help
area. At other trailheads, visitors
people learn the skills needed
are usually excited to get moving,
to help protect and conserve
so conversations are generally
the beautiful Catskill region. In
pretty quick and packed with
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information. On the Devil’s Path,
occasions, I helped lost and
however, my conversations felt
exhausted hikers make it back
more like I was sitting around a
to their car. Another time, I
campfire with old friends. People
happened to walk by when an
would ask lots of questions about
unattended fire spread to some
the area and about rules and
nearby dried leaf litter. Thankfully,
regulations. They would ask for
none of these experiences turned
advice and tips and share their
into something more serious.
own stories and experiences. I
In fact, they offered a great
was invited on camping trips,
educational experience for other
to bachelorette parties, and
hikers I met along the way.
brewery tours. Even when I approached a few backpackers
Litter wasn't much of an issue
about illegal camping, the
on the more remote trails along
majority weren’t intentionally
and around the Devil’s Path,
doing something wrong. In most
whereas at other Catskill Steward
cases, they appreciated the
locations, such as the Blue Hole
suggestions on how they could
or Kaaterskill, Stewards would
help recreate more responsibly.
remove three to four bags of trash, sometimes more, per day.
In general, visitors seemed to appreciate having a steward
On the Devil's Path, any litter I
on the trail. One of the most
found was more in the form of
common topics that came
pieces of granola bar wrappers
up was how to respect
that were either dropped or
wildlife, especially black bear
carried by the wind. I encountered
activity. These were wonderful
quite a few hikers along the
conversations that helped both
Devil’s Path who were taking out
hikers and wildlife stay safe.
the small bits of garbage they had come across. There were a
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There were a few instances
couple of times that a few
where having a Ridge Runner
sleeping bags and tents had been
on the Devil's Path prevented
discarded. These were the only
situations that could have
larger items I came across and
become dangerous. On three
are more than a regular hiker can
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manage to take out. Removing
for visitors now and in the future.
such larger items usually
It’s the stewards' job to help guide
requires a special trip back up
visitors to help achieve this.
the trail with an empty pack. I'm looking forward to seeing In addition to taking out the
how this stewarding program
odd pieces of garbage, I spent a
will continue to grow. It's my
large part of the season covering
hope to increase the reach of the
social trails with branches and
Catskill Stewards, not only to
leaves to limit use and help
have stewards on more trails and
the plant life regrow, as well as
in more locations, but to increase
breaking down illegal campsites
our visitor education through
that were too close to trails or
educational workshops, social
water, or above 3,500 feet. These
media presence, and location
instances became great teaching
visits outside of the trails.
moments for hikers who came by to check out what I was doing.
As we continue to work with the New York State Department of
After three years as a Catskill
Environmental Conservation to
Steward, I have taken over as the
find gaps in our coverage and
Visitor Experience and Steward
identify locations within the
Coordinator, where I am able to
Catskill Park where our stewards
help grow the Steward Program
can be of the most benefit, we
and guide new stewards. These
will continue to help educate the
future generations of Ridge
public on responsible recreation
Runners can look forward to more
and hopefully foster in visitors
amazing seasons of hiking and
their love of nature in the
meeting great people. However,
beautiful Catskill Park, whether at
the key to a steward's success
three feet in elevation, or 3,500.
in the front or backcountry is to understand that, in general, people want to do the right thing; they want to help protect the ecology and help preserve a welcoming, natural environment 25
SPRING 2022
Catskill, NY-based Artist Marc Swanson thought he would spend a good part of the week creating sculpture on the porch while people walked by on the trail. Instead, he fell into the rhythm of fulfilling basic needs, like fetching water and staying warm. It was 2016, and Swanson was a Catskill Center Artist in Residence, staying for a week that September at the Center’s Platte Clove cabin. Platte Clove and its mountainous flanks have been the focus of artists, poets, and conservationists, with the vistas immortalized by artists such as Thomas Cole, founder of the Hudson River School of landscape painting. And therein lies the connection between Swanson and Cole. Swanson says that during his time at the Platte Cove cabin, he felt steeped in the moment and connected with Cole, and developed a spiritual connection to the land. Swanson began focusing on the smaller things while staying at the cabin. During his daily hikes, he started noticing critters and the way the water dripped in a certain locale. He thought about how to bring nature,
26
SPRING 2022
PHOTO: INSTALLATION VIEW OF MARC SWANSON: A MEMORIAL TO ICE AT THE DEAD DEER DISCO. MASS MoCA, 2022. PHOTO BY TONY LUONG
Ice, Deer, and Platte Clove
in the macro sense, down to something relatable and personal. After five days of this pondering, and living a sort of pioneer way of life, Swanson says he felt different than he ever had. He thought about climate change and felt guilty, survivor’s guilt, the same kind of guilt he felt during the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and early 1990s. Swanson says some of the same people who were ignoring AIDs are ignoring climate change. Swanson experienced a déjà vu moment and wondered how he could conflate the AIDS epidemic and climate change, synthesizing two disparate things that don’t fit together. "People will think I’m totally crazy," said Swanson. Today, Swanson’s mixed-media exhibit, "A Memorial to Ice at the Dead Deer Disco," currently at MASS MoCA, is the result of this. Swanson says the enormous problem of climate change can leave many with the sense of being overwhelmed by future doom and gloom. Swanson says his basic message is that when we’re found to live in the ruins of our future, we can’t be in the moment. "If we can be in the moment with this, then we can feel connected," Swanson said. While staying at the cabin, Swanson did some sketches and shot videos that are in the exhibit. Some of the ice depicted in his installation was inspired by Kaaterskill Falls. As described in the exhibition overview: Swanson’s exhibitions consist of sculptures and environments that look at the relationships between humans, culture, and the natural world. He has created a series of sculptures based loosely on dioramas and nature displays, as well as old Hollywood glamor, gravestones, and memorial monuments. The works exist as both memorial and monument aligning climate change with the AIDS crisis. For Swanson, nature and the disco have been the two places he has associated with letting go and freedom, but through the lens of loss and fear. Taken together, these references create an installation that confronts loss and our inability to control human nature and the world around us. Swanson’s connection to Thomas Cole goes beyond Platte Clove. Cole, who wrote about the negative effects of development along Catskill 27
SPRING 2022
Creek, had a favorite painting location — what is now Swanson’s property along Catskill Creek. There is another link between Cole and Swanson — the Catskill Center, beyond Platte Clove Preserve. Cole’s great-granddaughter Edith Cole Siiberstein sold Thomas Cole’s house, known as Cedar Grove, in 1979 to the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development. The Catskill Center intended only to serve as a caretaker for the house until another entity came forward. In 1981, the Catskill Center sold Cedar Grove to the Thomas Cole Foundation. Swanson’s new series of installations inspired by the artwork and writings of Thomas Cole is on display at MASS MoCA through January 1, 2023. A companion exhibit opens at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill July 13 and runs through November 13, 2022. The exhibitions are curated by Denise Markonish, Senior Curator and Director of Exhibitions at MASS MoCA. It is the first time MASS MoCA and the Thomas Cole Site are working together on an exhibition. For more information, visit: massmoca.org/exhibitions/ thomascole.org/marcswanson/ marcswansonstudio.com
28
SPRING 2022
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29
SPRING 2022
It’s something the Catskill Center advocated for as a member of the Catskills Advisory Group (CAG)—the Catskill Park now has its first-ever Catskill Park Coordinator. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the new position in November 2021 to help lead DEC’s ongoing and collaborative efforts to promote sustainable use of public lands in the Catskill (and Adirondack) Forest Preserves. The CAG had called for the creation of such a position to help balance the increase in numbers of visitors along with natural resource protection and public safety, especially along the Route 23 corridor. McCrea Burnham is the new Catskill Park Coordinator. He will help coordinate efforts with the multiple communities and regions of the Catskill Park to better guide efforts to address the unique problems caused by the uptick in visitors to the Catskill Forest Preserve. Burnham comes to 30
SPRING 2022
PHOTO: JEFF SENTERMAN, MCCREA BURNHAM, AND NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOSH HOWARD, 2015.
MEET THE NEW CATSKILL PARK COORDINATOR
the position as a longtime staffer
MB: I’m starting with the Catskill
from DEC’s Division of Lands and
Advisory Group’s (CAG) report,
Forests, where he concentrated
as my position grew from this
on recreation, education, and trail
group to begin with. This report
management. (Josh Clague is the
will be the foundation that’ll
new Adirondack Park Coordinator
guide me in this position for the
and also a longtime staffer from
next few years. And then, with all
DEC’s Division of Lands and
the partners and DEC staff, we’ll
Forests.)
Catskills
Magazine’s
Allison Dunne spoke with him
expand and then figure out as a group where this position goes.
about his plans for the new position.
AD: So what will be your focus off the bat? I mean, there’s long term,
AD: What is your relation to the
short term and medium term, I’m
Catskills region?
sure. So what are short-term and then long-term goals?
MB: Well, I was born in Walton, New York, at the Delaware Valley
MB: Well, I first started with a
Hospital. And I grew up in Roscoe,
focus right on the CAG’s interim
New York, and graduated high
report, which has four main
school there in 1992.
recommendations,
calling
for
better education of recreational AD:
Roscoe is known as Trout
users, right off the top. They
Town, USA and a top destination
want to do a better job with
for fly fishing, so it’s only fair to
diversity, equity, inclusion, and
ask if you fly fish?
justice (DEIJ). But, you know, obviously, that’s a spot where it’s
MB: I do fly fish, but not as much
a challenge for myself because
as I’d like to. I used to a lot. But
I’m behind the eight ball first
you know, life has gotten in the
off, like most 48-year-old white
way of that.
men, but I’m ready to listen. And I’ve already been listening to the
31
AD: What is the importance of
Adirondack diversity initiative.
this new position and how do you
They’ve been helping us improve
view it?
our recruitment for our natural
SPRING 2022
resource stewards. We’re trying
coming other than the parking
to diversify that program. We
and
have, since its inception, tried
situation. But we’re wrestling
to diversify that program, and
with those and we’re going to
struggled. But the Adirondack
continue wrestling with those
diversity initiative has been very
issues. So what we need to do
gracious in helping us edit our
when we talk about high use is we
job
they’ve
need to look at our facilities. So if
also helped us spread the word
you want to go to a high peak, you
in more communities than we at
want to go to Cornell, or Slide, we
DEC have traditionally reached.
need to have sufficient parking.
descriptions.
And
unacceptable
bathroom
We need to have a restroom AD:
Let’s talk about overuse,
somewhere in the vicinity of that
because obviously, that was the
trailhead, not just a porta potty
case around the state since the
at the trailhead because we know
COVID-19 pandemic took hold.
that’s not enough. You need to
Overall, there is much higher use
have a restroom for people to use
than ten, twenty years ago. What
because many of these people
comes to mind when you think of
are traveling up from New York
addressing overuse?
City, maybe Boston. And then we need to make sure the trails are
32
MB: Well, there’s a lot of different
sustainably
things we need to discuss when
built. And that’s going to be a
we talk about, we like to call it high
real challenge for the Department
use. And if we build our facilities
(DEC). Many of our trails were
correctly, as we move forward, and
not built, they were walked in
we build them sustainably so they
by physically fit people and
can handle the use, we shouldn’t
aren’t necessarily in the best
have overuse, we should only have
locations. And that is going to
high use. And so when you look at
be a challenge for us to struggle
Kaaterskill, in the last ten years,
with for many years. But we have
we made huge improvements
a lot of great partners out there
there. Obviously, we still lack
helping us to keep people on the
parking, but the facility itself can
trails, try to stop the widening.
handle the numbers of people
It’s a challenging thing for the
SPRING 2022
constructed
and
Department
because,
on
one
work? How important are the
hand, our natural resources are an
stewards? Would you like to see
economic driver for the Catskills,
that program grow?
but that was never its intention. So how do we beef up the natural
MB:
resource protections that we need
programs are going to be an
and not hurt the economics of the
essential part of how we protect
Catskill region?
the Catskills and Adirondacks,
Yeah, the stewards-type
quite frankly, whether it’s a AD:
For the Catskill Center,
trailhead
steward,
a
Ridge
that’s what we do is balance
Runner, a High Peaks steward, we
conservation and development.
need them, we need more of them.
It’s why we exist. And, of course,
And they’re a friendly face. You get
reasonable
not
into that authority of the resource
just any development, but I hear
versus the authority of the agency
you, and it is a big undertaking.
stuff. It’s kind of a very complex
Part of this, as you mentioned
thought process. But in a simple
earlier, too, is education, and
form,
you know that we are strong
friendly face who educates, helps
believers in this with our Catskill
protect our natural resources,
Stewards Program. We’re proud
is there if you actually need real
of it, and doubled the number of
assistance, first aid, and those
stewards for 2021, had a Ridge
types of things. They are going
Runner for the first time on the
to be a big part of the way we
Devil’s Path. And our stewards
educate the public on the proper
are able to get those people who
use of our natural resources
come to Kaaterskill Falls or the
across the country, but in the
Peekamoose Blue Hole and say,
Catskills specifically.
development,
that
trail
ambassador,
hey, I know it’s muddy, but it’s so much better if you just truck on
AD: And our Stewards Program is
through that and don’t make a
a partnership with DEC. So we’re
social trail, things like that. And
working hand in hand here.
we really think that education
33
is working. What do you think
MB: Absolutely. And they’re very
about that part of the stewards’
cost-effective programs. That’s
SPRING 2022
something people really need
But the first thing you need to
to hear. These are cost-effective
do is create open and honest
programs. The Catskill Center
communication. We need to give
has a whole bunch of stewards,
everybody the space to give their
which
Catskill
honest opinion because if they
Mountainkeeper had a few in
can’t, then they’ll never buy into
Sullivan County where we may not
anything that we do. And I think
be seeing some of the use that
the Catskill Center does a great
we’re seeing at Kaaterskill and at
job of this, and so do others,
Blue Hole, but they’re seeing high
where they allow everybody to
use in Beaverkill, Crystal Lake.
say what they really believe, and
And then we’ve got a partnership
I’m going to participate in that
with the New York-New Jersey
wholeheartedly because that’s
Trail
was
going to be the key—having
started by Jeff Senterman and
everybody have the opportunity
myself, but Jeff, really, I was just
to say what they really think, even
sort of the contract person for
if I don’t like what you have to say.
DEC, authoring the agreement
And then we need to compromise.
is
great.
The
Conference,
and
coordination
which
between
DEC regions and the different
I had a friend give me really good
programs. So we’ve got a lot to
advice on what this job was. He
be proud of when we talk about
said, your job is going to be to
stewards, you know; between
listen. He had three things and I
all of our partners, the Catskill
added a fourth, but it was listen
Center has been a leader in this
to the public, do the doable, and
stuff. And we’re going to hopefully
protect natural resources. I added
be growing these programs.
compromise because we’re not going to be able to do everything
AD: How do you see balancing all
for everybody. And it’s going to
of the different interests in the
start with honest communication.
region?
If a town supervisor doesn’t feel that he can tell the DEC the truth
34
MB: It’s getting tough. I don’t
in front of Jeff Senterman, that’s
want anyone to think it’s easy
a problem. We need to be able
to balance multiple interests.
to all sit in the same room and
SPRING 2022
hear the same facts or the same
and mandates? How much of this
information and have everybody’s
is weighing on your mind when
opinion honestly spoken and
you may be listening to all these
not be offended. We need to try
parties?
to work in a way that we politely tell our side of the story, and
MB: Well, we are challenged every
then we need to compromise
day by our executive to make
and figure out how to protect our
sure we aren’t contradicting our
natural resources, how to spur
climate change goals. The big
the economy by protecting our
challenge for us with climate
natural resources because that’s
change is these massive storms
totally,
achievable.
that keep coming, so when I think
We follow the New York State
of recreation management and
Constitution with Article 14, we
forest
protect our natural resources, and
how do I protect our natural
we spur the economy by bringing
resources? How do I protect our
ecotourism
Catskills.
trails from these storms and live
(Article 14 of the New York State
within the constitution of the
Constitution was put in place in
state?
absolutely
to
the
preserve
management,
1894. And it really, it set the lands owned within the Catskill Park,
AD: In your new role, will you be
and the Adirondack Park, in a
working in the Catskills? Back
constitutionally-protected state.
and forth? How does this work?
And it really limits what the state, the bureaucrats like myself, and
MB: Well, they intend for me to sit
the public can do on those lands.
in Albany. That’s where the office
So it protects timber.)
is. And a lot of this is going to be meetings and conference calls
35
AD: Have you thought about, and
between two different regions.
this may be a little bit down the
You have the Schenectady and
road, but just given the state
Stanford office for Region Four,
mandate
previous
and the New Paltz office for Region
governor, and now obviously the
Three. But you know, Albany is
current governor, climate change
only an hour away from Greene
goals and related state initiatives
County, parts of the Catskill
from
SPRING 2022
the
Forest Preserve. I still travel down.
That relationship will continue
I spend many weekends in the
to be built. And I’m going to
Beaverkill Valley. So, a two-hour
use his planning mind as I go
drive in New York, as you in the
forth, and nothing that we do
Catskills know, is not a big drive.
in the Catskills is going to look
So if it’s appropriate for me to be
totally different than what we
at something, that’s not going to
do in the Adirondacks. We’re
be a problem. My head and heart
talking about the same Article
are in the Catskills, so I’ll be there
14 of the state constitution, and
a lot.
they’re
both
constitutionally
protected. And the same rules AD: What about working with the
generally apply, and some of the
Adirondack
Coordinator?
same issues affect them. When
Yes, the Catskill and Adirondack
you talk about our Route 23A
Parks have some different issues,
corridor through the Kaaterskill
different needs, but I imagine
Clove and you look at our Route
there’ll be discussion between
73 in the Adirondacks, the use
you and Josh. How might you
may be different - we’re going to
work together on overlapping
swimming holes in the Catskills
ideas and concerns?
and they’re going to the high
Park
peaks — but the parking issues
36
MB: First, Josh, and I are very good
are the same. The road structure
friends. We’re going to sit about
is probably worse in the Catskills,
ten feet apart. Since he came to
but they’re similar. They’re these
the DEC 14 years ago, we’ve worked
state roads that are very narrow.
pretty closely together. He was the
There’s nowhere for people to park
head of our planning section for
and the droves of people coming,
the Forest Preserve. And yes, I’m
we just don’t have the facilities to
on the implementation side. So
handle it. So those conversations
we had two different focuses for
are the same. They’re talking
the last 14 years. But I don’t get
about
to do any implementation if no
implemented
planning happens, and there’s
talking about getting a shuttle on
no reason to do the planning if
Route 23A. We did permits at Blue
no
Hole. They’re now doing permits in
implementation SPRING 2022
happens.
shuttles
and
shuttles.
they’ve We’re
one of their areas. So we’re talking
of this land is the New York City
every day about those issues, and
watershed.
we’re modeling each other. They’re
here to swim and enjoy these
a little ahead of us on the shuttle,
waters. But how do we protect the
we’re a little ahead of them on
drinking water of some 10 million
permits. And we’re one agency,
people and allow people to come
it’s DEC. It’s the forest preserve,
here and enjoy it and spur our
it’s Adirondacks and Catskills,
economy? So these two activities
but they’re both under the same
are going to spur our economy,
Article 14. So it shouldn’t look too
but we’ve got to do it right.
And
people
come
different. And Josh and I are going to coordinate a lot.
AD:
The DEP watershed is one
thing that does not exist in AD:
Is there an area in the
the Adirondacks, so that’s a
Catskills or areas where you’re
challenge that’s pretty unique to
thinking need attention right
the Catskills.
away? Or an issue? What strikes you as, wow, we need to take care
MB: The concept of our swimming
of that.
holes and all these little creeks is not something that exists in the
MB: There are two areas in the
Adirondacks either. They have
Catskills that I think are central.
swimming holes, but not like we
It’s the trails and the high peaks.
do.
We have to make sure that we protect
those
vital,
natural
resources. One of our planners
AD:
Is there anything else you
wanted to mention?
in DEC’s Region Three has been studying trailless peaks for two
MB:
or three years. And we’re getting
with everybody down there on the
to a point where we need to
state’s property. I look forward
have conversations about how
to working with the public and
we protect the Bicknell’s Thrush
understanding their goals and
along those trails. What is the
their interests.
right thing for these areas? And then the other thing is that most 37
SPRING 2022
I look forward to working
ENDNOTE - ON ADVOCACY
Collaboration is key to long-term advocacy success in the Catskill Park and for the Forest Preserve across New York. It’s one reason why the Catskill Center puts such value on building coalitions and consensus for issues facing our region. With a common voice, purpose, and goal, we can work together in Albany to ensure that the unique resource that is the Catskill Forest Preserve is adequately funded, protected, and preserved for current and future generations of residents and visitors. The hard work of advocacy paid off this year with strong returns for the Catskill Park, including: - Continued funding for the Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor
Center,
Catskill
Science
Collaborative,
Cornell
University’s
hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) biocontrol lab, and Belleayre Ski Center; - Historic $8 million in funding for the Forest Preserve in the Catskill and Adirondack Parks; and - Increased
funding for the stewardship of state land.
of this collaboration. The Catskill Center teamed up with the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) to create a new Forest Preserve Coalition that spanned across the two parks. With dozens of supporters, Catskill Center and ADK brought a message of cooperation, collaboration, and partnership to Albany 38
SPRING 2022
PHOTO: TODD SPIRE
The historic $8 million in funding for the Forest Preserve is a shining example
where we met with legislators, staff from the Governor’s office, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and many more to build the case for why funding the Forest Preserve equitably between the Catskill and Adirondack Parks was so important. It’s not only advocacy work in Albany though. We are engaged in advocacy work throughout the Catskills themselves. As a signatory to the agreement that established the management structure of the New York City watershed, we are important partners and stakeholders in the negotiations that are constantly evolving to best protect the watershed. We continually endeavor to ensure we have the best water quality, while also ensuring that our communities benefit from the City’s efforts to protect the watershed. Whether speaking up for the Catskill Park and the Forest Preserve in Albany or through collaborating with local and regional partners, the common goal is to protect the natural resources of the Catskills while bolstering the prosperity of our communities. The Catskill Center has been rooted in this advocacy, this work, this balance between natural resources and economic development for more than 50 years, all made possible by you. Members like you fully support the advocacy work of the Catskill Center through your generous donations and contributions. You are the driving force behind the work to bring attention, equity, and resources to our region. You protect our amazing natural resources. You ensure the continued growth and vitality of our communities. You are the Catskill Center, and because of you, we are the longest serving organization working to protect our beautiful Catskill Mountains.
JEFF SENTERMAN Catskill Center Executive Director
39
SPRING 2022
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