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r Angling fo ss. spring ba eled Two-whe es adventur and more!
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North country bird watchers on the lookout for fanciful flights p. 26
Volume 2 No. 1 Spring / Summer 2015 $2.95
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OUR BACKYARD. YOUR ADVENTURE. 16-18
• 23-Mile Black River Challenge - June 28 • Zwanzigstein Fest - July 4 • Lewis County Fair - July 21-25 • Riverfest - August 1 • Beaver River Water Releases - TBA • Flywheels & Pulleys - Sept. 5-6 • Cream Cheese Festival - Sept. 19 • Fall Foliage Tour and Family Farm Day - Sept. 26 • Taste of Home Cooking School - Oct. 17 • Halloween Towne - Oct. 24 • Home for the Holidays - Nov. 19-22 & 28
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Opening shot
Spring-Summer Season 2015 C OV E R
22 Guiding the ADK A longtime Adirondack outdoor guide shares a few of his favorite memories from years on the trail. F E AT U R E S
14 River keepers For nearly 40 years, Clayton-based Save the River has advocated for a healthy, safe St. Lawrence River.
26 Birding bonanza So you think you want to take up bird watching? Northern New York is home to a wide variety of avian species.
32 A bullhead hunt Fishing for bullheads is a tradition like few others when it comes to outdoor life in the great north country.
24 First person How bullhead fishing helped to deepen one woman’s ties with her family. C OLU M N S
12 The right angler Eastern Lake Ontario holds many treasures as waters continue to warm.
18 A guy on a bike Cycle Adirondacks sets tour schedule with stops across the north country.
38 Treestand chronicles A local naturalist recalls his first camping trip to the Adirondacks.
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DE PA RT M E N T S
6 Contributors 7 Editor’s view 8 Outside in brief 30 Outdoor adventures SPRING / SUMMER 2015
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CONTRIBUTORS LORNA OPPEDISANO is a staff writer and editorial assistant for NNY Magazines. In this issue, she writes about Save the River, a Clayton-based nonprofit that has watched over the environmental health and safety of the mighty St. Lawrence River for nearly 40 years. (pg. 14)
NORAH MACHIA is a freelance writer and veteran Watertown Daily Times reporter. In our cover story, she writes about veteran state Department of Environmental Conservation forester Mart Allen who has guided people in the Adirondacks since 1978. (p. 22)
KRIS RUSHO is a freelance writer and former reporter. In features, she writes about the north country tradition of spring bullhead fishing. In ‘First Person,’ she writes about growing closer to her grandparents while fishing with as a young girl. (pgs. 32, 34)
BOB DICK is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain who owns and operates Moby Dick Charters in Henderson Harbor. He is a member of the New York State Outdoor Writer’s Association. In ‘The Right Angler,’ he writes about summer fishing in Eastern Lake Ontario. (p. 12)
Thousand Islands
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Chairman of the Board John B. Johnson Jr.
Publishers
John B. Johnson Harold B. Johnson II
VP News Operations Timothy J. Farkas
Magazine Editor
Kenneth J. Eysaman
Staff Writer / Editorial Assistant Lorna Oppedisano
Photography
Norm Johnston, Justin Sorensen, Jason Hunter, Melanie Kimbler-Lago, Amanda Morrison
Director of Advertising Michelle Bowers
CHRIS BROCK is a veteran Johnson Newspapers staff writer and avid bicyclist. In ‘A Guy On A Bike,’ he writes about the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Cycle Adirondacks tour, which is set for August. He also looks ahead to other tours on tap this season. (p. 18)
Jay M. Matteson is an outdoorsman, naturalist and Boy Scout leader who holds a degree in wildlife biology. In ‘The Treestand Chronicles,’ he writes about his adventures as a young boy while on his first overnight camping trip in the Adirondacks. (p. 38)
MARKETPLACE The Antique Boat Museum .................. 16 Bills Feed Service ................................... 4 Bobcat of Watertown .......................... 10 Burrville Power Equipment .................... 9 Carthage Market ................................... 4 Clayton Chamber of Commerce ...... 31 Clayton Marina ....................................11 R C Congel Boat Sales ........................ 25 D & D Power Sports .............................. 10 Flat Rock Inn ........................................ 35 Fun Unlimited ......................................... 4 Gerald A. Nortz Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep ...................................... 37 Happy Camping RV ............................ 36 Herb Philipson’s .................................... 39 Hilltop Hunting ...................................... 31 Lewis County Chamber ........................ 3 Moby Dick Charters ............................ 38 Montague Inn ...................................... 31 Nice N Easy ............................................ 4 NNY Community Foundation .............. 13 North Country Storage Barns ................ 2 6
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North Woods Outfitters ........................ 19 Northern Marine ................................... 36 Precision Marine .................................. 31 Reiters Marina ...................................... 19 S & L Tree Service ................................. 13 Salmon River International Sport Fishing Museum ..................................... 4 St. Lawrence Bowfishing Championship ....................................... 4 St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce ...................................... 40 St. Lawrence County FISHCAP ............ 11 Tailwater Lodge ................................... 17 Tug Hill Hook and Ladder ................... 34 Tugger’s Family Restaurant ................. 25 Vandewater & Associates Land Company .................................... 24 Village of Waddington ........................ 19 Waite Motorsports .................................. 8 Waite Toyota ........................................ 33 Weichert, Realtors, Thousand Islands Realty ....................... 7
Magazine Advertising Manager Beth Hornbarger
Ad Graphics, Design
Brian Mitchell, Heather O’Driscoll, Scott Smith, Todd Soules, Rick Gaskin
Circulation Director Mary Sawyer
NNY Outdoors is published twice each year by Northern New York Newspaper Corp., 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601, a Johnson Newspaper Corp. company. © 2014-2015. All material submitted to NNY Outdoors becomes property of Northern New York Newspaper Corp., publishers of the Watertown Daily Times, and will not be returned.
Editorial Submissions Send all editorial correspondence to Editor Ken Eysaman keysaman@wdt.net Advertising For advertising rates and information in Jefferson and Lewis counties, email bhornbarger@wdt.net, or call 661-2325 In St. Lawrence County, e-mail blabrake@ogd.com, or call 661-2507 Printed with pride in U.S.A. at Vanguard Printing LLC, Ithaca, N.Y. a Forest Stewardship Certified facility. www.vanguardprintingllc.com (607) 272-1212
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EDITOR’s view
A season of summer outdoor fun on tap
I
find it hard to believe that it’s been a year since we published our inaugural issue of NNY Outdoors. Despite the seemingly rapid passage of time, I am relieved that another north country winter is now in the books and behind us. During the record deep freeze that was the entire month of February, I thought we’d never again hit the switch on the central air at home. At this writing, we’ve already had some days that have topped 80 degrees and my calendar isn’t yet flipped to June. With the passage of spring, and soon the start of summer, we have much to look forward to in Northern New York. Signs of summer abound as the countdown to community and church festivals is well underway. If that’s not a good sign, the mighty St. Lawrence River is completely thawed and the Seaway has been open to traffic for several weeks. Boaters and fishermen are out in force on our lakes and rivers across the region and, in a couple more
weeks, swimming in Lake Ontario won’t be a polar plunge. In this, our second springsummer issue, we are pleased to present a lineup of content that ofKen Eysaman fers something for everyone who is interested in the great outdoors. From staff writer Lorna Oppedisano’s feature about Clayton nonprofit Save the River and its nearly 40-year mission to safeguard one of our most pristine north country wonders to writer Norah Machia’s cover story about a retired state Department of Environmental Conservation forester and longtime Adirondack guide, we hope you’ll agree. Also in this issue, Clayton native and writer Kris Rusho goes behind the tradition of bullhead fishing and even shares her grandmother’s recipe for fish fry batter. And
for those who have always thought they might like to try their hand at bird watching, writer Gabrielle Hovendon presents a complete guide to the hobby. I hope you enjoy this new issue of NNY Outdoors. It’s packed with stories and content that you’ll only read in the north country. Our fall hunting issue hits the press in mid-September with a publication date of late September. In future issues, we’d like to publish photos of prize-winning fish that local fishermen and woman catch this season. So don’t be bashful and send your best “fish story” to keysaman@wdt.net. Photos should be saved as a .JPG in high-resolution digital format, minimum 300 dpi. Meanwhile, if you have any ideas or suggestions for future stories, call me direct at 661-2399. See you on the trail,
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OUTSIDE IN BRIEF regulations for trout, salmon and lake trout on Cold Brook and the West Branch of the St. Regis River, or replace Lake Ontario tributary regulations for St. Lawrence River tributaries in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties with statewide terminal tackle restrictions. The DEC said the new changes are the end result of a two-year process including biological assessments, discussions with anglers and a formal 45-day public comment period. A list of the recently adopted rules can be found at http://wdt.me/3dudQh.
F I SH I N G
env i ronment
North country land trusts to share grants AMANDA MORRISON | NNY OUTDOORS
Participants fish at the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center. The state Department of Environmental Conservation recently updated statewide rules on freshwater fishing.
DEC updates statewide freshwater fishing rules The state Department of Environmental Conservation recently updated statewide rules on freshwater fishing. Among them: Increasing the minimum size limit for muskellunge to 54 inches in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, permitting the use of floating lures with multiple hooks with multiple hook points on all Lake Ontario tributaries except for the Salmon River and new regulations on several bodies of water in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. Other rules include: n Establishing a special trout regulation of a daily creel limit of five fish, with no more
than two fish longer than 12 inches, for some waters in the three counties. n Establishing an all-year season, with a 12-inch minimum size limit and daily limit of three fish, for both trout and landlocked salmon at Millsite Lake in Jefferson County. n Expanding the current special trout regulation for Pine, Boottree, Town Line, Deer and Horseshoe ponds of St. Lawrence County to the entire set of waters that are a part of the Massawepie Easement. n Modifying trout and/or salmon regulations for Star Lake and Trout Lake of St. Lawrence County, with a 12-inch minimum size limit and three fish daily creel limit, with ice fishing permitted. Additional rules would eliminate special
Nine north country land trusts were awarded grants totaling $275,900 under the Conservation Partnership Program administered by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. The grants were part of a $1.8 million, 76-grant package given to 55 land trusts statewide to help them protect open space. The following nonprofits in the north country were awarded funding: Thousand Islands Land Trust, Clayton, two grants totaling $60,000; Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, Watertown, $40,900; St. Lawrence Land Trust, Canton, $12,000; Ontario Bays Initiative, Chaumont, $13,000; Lake Placid Land Conservancy, $15,000; Indian River Lakes Conservancy, Redwood, two grants totaling $65,000, and Champlain Area Trails, Westport, $70,000. The grants, funded through the state Environmental Protection Fund, will leverage an additional $1.7 million in private funding to support conservation projects, according to the governor’s office.
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OUTSIDE IN BRIEF HUNTING
Hunters took 1,628 bears during 2014 Hunters in New York took 1,628 bears during seasons in 2014, the state Department of Environmental Conservation said. The largest growth was in the state’s southern zone, with bear takes breaking state records. In the northern zone, hunters took 518 bears, mirroring five-year averages for the region. The DEC said the heaviest bear taken this year was 646 pounds, which was found in Wells, Hamilton County. The state reported 99 bears were taken in St. Lawrence County, 23 bears in Jefferson County and 85 in Lewis County.
No CWD found during 2014-15 season With more than 2,400 white-tailed deer tested in the state’s 2014-15 Big Game season, none tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease, according to the Department of Environmental Conservation. However, CWD continues to pose a potential threat to New York’s wild white-tailed deer herd. Chronic wasting disease is a highly contagious disease that affects deer, elk, moose and other members of the deer family. CWD is always fatal and there are no vaccines or treatment available. The DEC has been testing wild white-tailed deer for CWD since 2002. In 2005, CWD was found in both captive and wild white-tailed deer in Oneida County. After intensive disease response efforts, no subsequent cases have been detected over the past 10 years. In the 2014-15
ing from DEC lands. The rules pertain to all DEC lands where watercraft such as boats, kayaks or canoes can be launched into the water. This includes DEC boat launches and fishing access sites. AIS are non-native aquatic organisms that invade ecosystems. They can cause harm to the environment, the economy or to human health. Earlier this year, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced an agreement to prevent the spread of AIS in the Adirondacks. More than 50 conservation groups, owners associations and local and state governments have signed on to the memo of understanding to help preserve clean water, increase recreation opportunities and promote tourism in New York.
surveillance period, DEC tested 2,335 samples from hunter-harvested deer and 86 clinical deer that appeared sick or abnormal. The DEC is developing a comprehensive CWD prevention plan slated to be available this year.
Deer take levels remain flat in 2014-15 season About 238,670 deer were taken during the 2014-15 hunting seasons, a slight dip from the previous year’s take of 243,567, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation. “Regulated deer reduces the negative impacts of deer on forests, communities and crop producers while also providing over 10 million pounds of high quality local protein annually,” DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said in a statement. The largest take in Jefferson County took place in Ellisburg, with 1,166 deer; the county had a total take of 7,599. The take leader in Lewis County was Denmark, with 512, while the county had a total of 3,562. St. Lawrence County, which had 4,908 deer taken, saw its largest take in Lisbon, with 426.
w i ldl i fe
DEC issues guidance to state homeowners The state Department of Environmental Conservation has issued several guidelines to help people avoid problems with bears. The first: Don’t feed them. Other guidance from the agency was to take down bird feeders, clean grills before nightfall, secure garbage cans and feed pets indoors. The state has about 6,000 to 8,000 bears, the DEC said, and many will go after human food if homeowners do not take precautions. Bird feeders, garbage cans, dumpsters, barbeque grills, unsecured out-buildings or vehicles containing food or waste are potential attractants to bears. A bear that finds human food can have a difficult time adjusting back to natural behaviors, the DEC said, and can be vulnerable to car crashes or becoming a public nuisance. It is illegal to intentionally feed bears.
b oat i ng
Regulations stop aquatic invasive species increase State boating regulations adopted in 2014 aim to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. The regulation requires boaters to remove all visible plant and animal materials from boats, trailers and associated equipment, and to drain boats prior to launching at or depart-
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OUTSIDE IN BRIEF DEC issues revised swan management plan Despite a reprieve on the statewide killing of mute swans, a newly revised management plan calls for elimination of the bird in northern parts of the state. It noted there are far fewer swans in upstate areas — about 200 of the state’s 2,200 mute swans — but that they have the ability to multiply quickly.
The DEC said it would leave more naturally occurring trumpeter swans and tundra swans untouched. The newly revised plan follows a January 2014 draft which called for the complete elimination of the state’s mute swan population by 2025. The plan spurred outrage from a wide range of environmental groups and led the state Legislature to pass a bill granting the birds a two-year reprieve, though that bill was vetoed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo.
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Mute swans, which are distinguished from native trumpeter and tundra swans by their orange bills, generally are quiet, but they aren’t mute. They make soft calls that don’t carry far, and they can hiss aggressively when threatened. State officials argue the birds can endanger aviation operations, attack humans and disrupt native habitats and wildlife. Maryland, Michigan and other states have similar plans, with wildlife biologists citing damage the swans cause to native species. The DEC said the updated plan looks to minimize the swan’s negative impacts on humans and habitats, and to consider non-lethal methods of population control. In the state’s southern region, the DEC’s plan will allow municipalities to keep swans at local parks and allow possession of the bird for research, education and exhibition purposes. The plan also calls for prohibiting the import and sale of the birds, regulating their release and new educational programs about them. The DEC noted the swans are protected by state law, and swans and their nests cannot be harmed without its approval. The new plan can be found at http://wdt. me/mzvqUb.
recreat i on
State initiative improves recreational opportunities Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s New York Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This initiative includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees, improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State. Under the initiative, the 2015-16 Enacted Budget adds an additional $8 million for state land access projects and an additional $4 million for the state’s hatcheries in NY Works funding which included repaving and painting at Caledonia Hatchery, and the acquisition of 16 new large stocking trucks and associated fish transport equipment. Other projects slated for completion this year are replacement of fish rearing raceways installation of new water treatment and heating equipment and replacement of the roof at Salmon River Hatchery. Future hatchery projects under consideration include pond and raceway renovations at South Otselic, Catskill and Randolph hatcheries.
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The right angler
Spring, summer fishing seasons in swing on Eastern Lake Ontario It was a long winter and many anglers’ look forward to the spring and summer fishing seasons. Many novice fishermen are not familiar with what the eastern end of Lake Ontario is like or offers. This is a unique area because it offers not only a wide open lake but areas of flat sandy bottoms, rocky points, shallow to deep walls and islands with exceptional structure that holds a lot of bait. Modern GPS units are a must as they provide excellent depth contours. Many fishermen in the spring of the year fish for brown trout. Most like to fish the shoreline between Henderson Harbor south to Sandy Pond. In early April, the sun has started to heat the sand warming the water close to shore from Stony Creek to Sandy Pond. Discharges of warm water from Stony and North and South Sandy creeks add more temperature, providing many warm water breaks. Smelt and alewives start hugging the shorelines looking for these warm breaks and browns follow to feast on their favorite food. Warm water plumes from the tributaries are typically one of the best spots. The edge of murky water can produce fast action on many days. Most of your early spring fishing is done in 3 to 15 feet of water, but moving to deeper water as winds and temps change. Speeds are critical, especially on days where the browns are finicky. Most experiment with speeds between 2.1 to 3.1 depending on lures being used, which is one of the most-asked questions in fishing: “What are you using?” We like Michigan Stinger spoons for bait as they have proven to be effective at different speeds while being able to take the abuse from constant action from a fish’s jaws. Some of our favorites are green 12
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wiggle; Sunkist, UV orange, UV blue, UV black and Michael Jackson. Walleye, northern pike and pickerel enter the picture in May. Best places are Henderson Bay, Black River Bob Dick Bay, Chaumont Bay, Pillar Point and Point Peninsula. Most use planer boards and in-line planers to get lures out away from the boat. Some of the favorite lures used by local guides and fishermen are Husky Jerks, Smithwicks, Rapalas, Bagley’s and Bombers to name a few. Best colors are
Anne Laubscher with a 15-pound lake trout. blue-silver, black-silver, fire tiger and gold. Fishing shallow early in the year then moving to deeper water later is normal. Novice fishermen ask where some of the best places are to find a variety of fish. As summer approaches one of the best places to start would be the trench, just outside Henderson Harbor between the mainland and Stony Island. Other “hot spots” are
Stony Point Wall, west of Stony Point Light; southwest of Galloo and Calf islands and around what’s called the “finger” — three miles off Stony Point Light. Downriggers are the preferred method for taking fish usually fishing down 60 to 125 feet in 100 to 165 feet of water. Depths can change as water temperatures change. Best lures to use for summer browns? We like Michigan Stinger lures which troll well at slow, medium and fast speeds with excellent action. Some of our favorites in the summer are green wiggle, black widow, orange gator, UV-mixed veggies, UV black tuxedo, rosemary’s baby, killer tangerine, yellow jacket, Sunkist and Michael Jackson to name a few. King salmon fishing really picks up in the same areas as brown trout in July. Pretty much most use the same techniques as browns, but maybe going to the bigger Michigan Stinger Stingrays. As it gets into late July, August-September time frame many switch to flasher-fly combinations. We like Michigan E-chip flashers in mountain dew UV, pretty girl, blackeyes peas, green wiggler, yellow killer and caramel dolphin; but colors can change daily. Our bet flies that we use are “A-Tom-Mik” flies made in Oswego. Glo Pro-Am hammer, sweet pea and mirage are our favorite flies. Summer trophy walleye fishing starts in August and can be hot in September. Best places are off Calf Island spit. Little Galloo Island, big Galloo Island, north pond and gas buoy. Most run planer boards or in-line planers with leads of 100 to 200 feet. Working water in the 20-to-60-foot depths usually is best fishing on and off points and humps. Reef Runner lures have always been a favorite to most walleye fishermen but we like deep diving Husky Jerks in size 12. Best
colors are the normal blacks, blues, gold, fire tiger and purples which can change daily. “Home of the black bass” was on a sign leading into Henderson Harbor since the ‘30s. There are hundreds of places to fish this feisty fighter which many consider “pound for pound, inch for inch” the mightiest fighter of them all! Most like fishing crabs, minnows, leeches or worms with ultra lights getting the best pounce for the ounce. Best places are same places as walleye, also Ray’s Bay, Sawyer’s Bay, pillboxes, Gull Island, Bass Island, Chaumont Bay, Black River, Campbell’s shoal and Bull Rock Point to name just a few. Best depths are usually 8 to 35 feet of water. Lake trout fishing has been fantastic in July and early August. Many fish in the 12-to-24-pound range with an occasional bigger one taken. Best places are northsouth and west of the “finger” off Stony Point Light and south of Galloo Island. Many like using cowbells in watermelon, monkey puke, blue, fire tiger and chartreuse-silver followed by glo-green peanuts or spin and glo’s, flat fish and fire plugs. We like using flasher-fly combinations same as you are using for king salmon. Fishing with downriggers close to bottom in 110 to 160 feet of water produces. Always keep an eye on depths around the “finger”, out off the “finger” you can bump bottom with no problem as it is flat. Don’t hesitate to try some fantastic catfish fishing in the Black River out of Dexter and Sackets Harbor. Best place is the deep hole by the islands heading toward Black River Bay. Best baits are usually chicken livers and shrimp. Stop and see Judy Kirch at B&J Bait on the water in Dexter for best info. Best place to call for information about fishing is Henchen’s Marina in Henderson Harbor, 938-5313. They usually have updates and current fishing reports to point you in the right direction. Many novice fishermen hook up with a charter captain with pen and pad in hand to learn techniques and places to fish to get a jump on the knowledge needed to go out into the big lake. Henderson Harbor Guides Association , 938-5313, has a wealth of excellent guides who are full of information. I hope these few basic tips help the novice get a start on fishing in this fantastic area but try to remember to have fun and take a kid fishing, n capt. bob dick is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain and owns and operates Moby Dick Charters in Henderson Harbor. He is a member of the New York State Outdoor Writer’s Association.
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How will you tell your story? It all begins with a conversation.
Northern New York
Community Foundation 120 Washington Street, Suite 400, Watertown, NY 13601 (315) 782-7110 • info@nnycf.org • www.nnycf.org
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Keepers of
the mighty St. Lawrence For nearly 40 years, Clayton’s Save the River has kept watch over a major north country resource
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By lorna oppedisano | NNY OUTDOORS
At the heart of any movement is a shared idea. It’s some common, unitinG FORCE with the power to drive people to take to the streets, to social media and take action. When people realized that one of the north country’s most important resources, the St. Lawrence River, might be in jeopardy, Save the River was formed in 1978 and has been active since. “From today’s perspective, it’s hard to appreciate how amazing it is that it was formed, and that it’s still here,” said Lee Willbanks, the organization’s executive director. “It’s a testament to the unifying and really unique nature of people’s connection to water and what we know it means to us.” The story began in 1976, when the tug barge NEPCO went aground, dumping 300,000 gallons of oil into the St. Lawrence River. Northern New Yorkers started to realize that the river was no longer simply a place to fish, swim and boat, Mr. Willbanks explained; now it was a step in a huge industrial process. SPRING / SUMMER 2015
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Two years later, the Department of Environmental Conservation informed river residents that a plan for year-round ice breaking for navigation was in the works. In August of 1978, activists LEE WILLBANKS Barry Freed Age: 56 and Johanna Family: Wife, Judy Drabicki; Lawrenson children, Dana and Jordan led 500 peoEducation: Bachelor’s degree ple in protest in urban studies, University of against the Alabama at Birmingham; law idea, and degree and master of public out of this administration, Syracuse group, Save University the River was Professional: Tug Hill Comformed. On mission; O’Hara & Crough; Oct. 31, 1976, private practice; Sithe Enerthe organigies Inc.; Cornell Cooperative zation was Extension; chief of staff of incorporated. Darrel J. Aubertine “That was Environmentalist heroes: before social David Suzuki, activist works media, before to reverse climate change; slick PR camMaude Barlow, National paigns,” Mr. Chairperson of the Council Willbanks of Canadians said. “It was the power of the idea. People saying, ‘We can do better.’” What began nearly four decades ago as a dedicated board of volunteers has evolved
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into a large membership organization of roughly 5,000 members and followers, about 1,100 of whom are paid members, and a fulltime staff of five people. Mr. Willbanks has been with Save the River for three years. He first had contact with the organization when he was chief of staff for Sen. Darrel J. Aubertine. Because there had been a few areas of disagreement between the senator’s office and the nonprofit, Mr. Willbanks doubted his chances at taking the reins of Save the River. But he was proven wrong. “I went through the process and found that it was a great fit,” he said. In his position of executive director, Mr. Willbanks also holds the title of the Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper. Save the River is part of the Waterkeeper Alliance, and is one of the roughly 240 organizations worldwide working to protect fresh and salt water around the globe. Each organization assigns one person the title of “keeper.” “By having a single person who’s identified, in the case as Riverkeeper, the idea is that it’s important that I hear from people who feel that there’s issues or concerns,” he explained, “and that there’s a focal point and a responsible person to deal with that.” When a new executive director comes aboard, the knowledge and accountability is passed from keeper to keeper. Being part of
the worldwide group, Save the River can easily partner with other organizations and reach out for more support when necessary. Along with the Waterkeeper Alliance, Save the River is also part of the Great Lakes Waterkeepers, and works with the Fresh Water Alliance in Canada and Alliance for the Great Lakes. In short, it’s a great structure to amplify what the nonprofit does, Mr. Willbanks said. “It is the coolest title in the world,” he added with a laugh. “I love being the Riverkeeper.” Save the River deals with huge issues, Mr. Willbanks said. The fight that started it all, water navigation, went on for decades. Another big concern the organization faces is invasive species. “It was probably the ’80s when it became apparent that opening the Great Lakes and the river to international shipping had created an explosion of invasive species,” he said, explaining that each foreign species brings a unique disturbance to the ecosystem. Save the River has also raised awareness of the issue of microbeads, the tiny plastics found in many personal care products that slip through safeguards and make their way into the water. They have the potential to affect the environment for centuries, according to a study commissioned in late 2014 by Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman. Starting in the mid-1990s, water level regulations became an issue, and remain a top priority for Save the River. In the 1950s and ’60s, water levels began to be manually regulated, resulting in what Mr. Willbanks called a “fairly static regime.” “It’s quite unlike the natural ups and downs that the river would have,” he said. The regulations have led to damage of tens of thousands of acres of wetlands. When the formal process to reverse the damage began in 1999, Save the River was involved in the initial study groups. In the past ten years, a new plan, Plan 2014, was formulated by the International Joint Commission. “With the new plan, at no additional cost, we could begin to reverse those declines and restore the wetlands,” Mr. Willbanks said. “That has implications not just for the environment, but for the economy of the community as well.” The IJC has advised the governments of Canada and the U.S., and the issue has yet to be resolved. “It’s our No. 1 issue still,” he said. In general, Save the River is on a mission to show people that the St. Lawrence River is more than just “Highway H2O,” as the Great Lakes and Seaway System region transportation shareholders have marketed it. “I can see what they’re trying to do, but it feels like you’re reducing a significant water-
SAVE THE RIVER: A Timeline of ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
1986: Volunteer program to mark underwater shoals begins.
August 1978: Barry Freed and Johanna Lawrenson lead 500 people in protest against yearround ice breaking on the river; out of this group, Save the River forms.
1994:: Save the River purchases current location.
Oct. 31, 1978: Save the River is incorporated. 1981: Pete Seeger plays at Save the River’s first River Jamboree. early spring 1984: Riverfest held by the Ogdensburg chapter.
way to infrastructure,” Mr. Willbanks said. “And when you do that, it gives you more of a license to treat it as infrastructure.” Along with addressing issues that concern the river and working with like-minded organizations, Save the River is involved in the local community and schools. Each year, the nonprofit holds a handful of community events, including the Rock for the River, scheduled this year for Saturday, July 4, and Run for the River, slated for Saturday, July 25. “These two events are some of the first contact with Save the River,” Save the River member Diane H. Leonard said. “And then they become members and start to learn about the work.” Mrs. Leonard’s first involvement with the organization was running in the race. From there, she decided to join the group, and then eventually become more involved and lead the efforts to organize as chair of the event. This year marks the 13th year of the race, and the organizers are hoping to reach 600 people, up from the 550 people who participated last year. Runners and walkers can choose from a 5K or 10K along the St. Lawrence River. “It’s a beautiful way to engage summertime visitors and yearlong residents,” Mrs. Leonard said. Save the River also makes efforts to reach children through the Save the River in the Schools program, which integrates relevant issues and topics into the curriculum. The program reaches about 1,000 students each year, and 600 to 800 of them take a fieldtrip on the river with Clayton Island Tours. “So they’re on the water, many of them for the first time,” Mr. Willbanks said. Since her children have learned about the river through the school program, being involved with Save the River has become a “whole family affair,” Mrs. Leonard said. “It’s really important, intense exposure,” she said. “It’s an amazing thing to do to educate and engage the next generation.”
1989: Save the River holds its first Winter Weekend Conference.
november 1998: Eleven years of data on Muskellunge catch and release program are publicized, showing program’s success. 2000: The fight against expanding shipping on the river is brought to the forefront again with the Water Resources Development Act of 1999. 2003: Save the River celebrates 25th anniversary. 2004: Save the River becomes part of the Waterkeeper Alliance.
More than 500 people show their opposition to Seaway expansion during a meeting at the Clayton Opera House. 2008: Save the River holds first Riverkeeper Volunteer training. 2012: Save the River moves into renovated and expanded office. 2013: International Joint Commission releases Plan 2014. Rock for the River holds two concerts in celebration of 10th anniversary. 2014: 25th Winter Environmental Conference. — Information courtesy Save the River archives
n LORNA OPPEDISANO is a staff writer and editorial assistant for NNY Magazines. Contact her at 661-2381 or loppedisano@wdt.net. SPRING / SUMMER 2015
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A guy on a bike
Cycle Adirondacks sets August run, season loaded with rides, tours The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Cycle Adirondacks tour, rolling out in August, is more than a ride in the Adirondack Park. “We saw this as an opportunity for people to experience the Adirondacks from both a recreational and tourism perspective,” said Zoë P. Smith, director of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Adirondack Program. “And as a conservation organization, we also thought it was an opportunity to verse people in the landscape we care about up here in Northern New York.” The inaugural Cycle Adirondacks tour set against the backdrop of mountains, rivers, lakes and communities along the way is Aug. 23-29. Ms. Smith said the idea for the tour came to her after she saw similar tours in other parts of the country where riders are exposed to a region. They range from the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa to BikeMaine. The Cycle Adirondacks tour begins and ends in Saranac Lake. It has a total distance of approximately 450 miles. Riders will spend the night in Star Lake, Boonville, Camden, Old Forge and Long Lake. Along the ride cyclists will have the chance to learn about the Adirondack Park’s conservation issues and its history. “We’ll have naturalists along the route,” Ms. Smith said. “There will be points of interest where riders can stop and learn about a particular area.” Ms. Smith said ride organizers are working with the Department of Environmental Conservation and other partners to provide context of the landscape along the way. Douglas M. Haney, event manager of Cycle Adirondacks, said that for many riders, the tour, which is nonprofit, will be 18
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their first experience with the Adirondacks. Riders who have signed up include those from 22 states and those from Ontario and Quebec. The Adirondack Park, Chris Brock Mr. Haney explained, is a patchwork of private lands, forever wild lands and areas of wildlife easements that
is unique in the U.S. Distances of the daily rides vary from 50 to 75 miles, Mr. Haney said. “It’s a cycling tour, not a race,” Mr. Haney said. “There’s no prize at the end of the tour for being the fastest. You can take as long as you want. Riders have a 12-hour window to
complete the route for that day.” Despite, the “Adirondacks” in the tour’s name, Mr. Haney said potential riders shouldn’t be unnerved by thoughts of climbing mountain roads. “We don’t have any 12,000-foot passages to climb,” Mr. Haney said. “We gain elevation over the course of a day, but it’s in a very rolling manner. You never have a sustained 8-or-9-mile climb. Over a course of a day, it’s quite manageable.” But the tour, Mr. Haney said, is more than about what riders will experience on their bikes. “Our evenings are going to be community celebrations,” he said. “Every step of the way, local municipalities and organizations have not only said, ‘We’d love to have you come,’ but also, ‘How can we help? How can we make this work for you guys?’” Mr. Haney said that each community the tour stops at during the end of each tour day will have 50 to 70 volunteers. “We’re basically building a village in each of these communities,” he said. Riders will have the option of bringing their own camping equipment, which will be transported each day or they can use a tent-rental option associated with the tour, which has a separate fee. Organizers will also provide shuttle service to nearby lodging facilities in each community the tour stops at for the night. Mr. Haney said that up to 80 percent of the waste created on the tour — “from food to waste water” — will be recycled or composted. “The idea of eco-tourism in the Adirondacks and surrounding region is such a powerful one,” Mr. Haney said. “We’re bringing a ‘leave-no-trace’ event to each of these communities with the exception
of the trace we’d like to leave, which is a positive impact.” Riders can sign up for the Cycle Adirondacks tour up to a week before it kicks off on Aug. 23. The tour is $1,495. Cost includes three catered meals a day, rest and water stops on the route, mobile showers, sinks, toilets, hand-washing stations, water bars and service vehicles. Also available: a four-day ride option at $650 and a three-day option at $850. Visit cycleadirondacks.com to learn more about on the tour. n
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The Adirondack tour is just one event on the local schedule of organized bike rides this year. n June 14: Central New York Tour de Cure, Verona Beach, to benefit the American Diabetes Association, http://wdt.me/xgUY77 n June 19-21: Sixth annual Saranac Lake Tandem Rally, gtgtandems.com n July 27: 13th annual Spokerride in Sackets Harbor spokerride.net n Sept. 20: Tour de Chaumont For events throughout the state, visit of the New York Bicycling Coalition online at nybc.net
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n Chris Brock is a Johnson Newspapers staff writer. Contact him at 661-2409 or cbrock@wdt.net.
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t
he Barnes Corners Sno-Pals- sponsored Snirt Run took off through the mud and snow in mid-April in Lewis County, drawing thousands of people to the unofficial kick-off
of ATV season in the north country. From left, a line of ATVs heads down hill on Denning Road in Barnes Corners. An ATV is plastered with mud at the owner’s first stop at Tugger’s on the poker run. A New York State Trooper directs traffic. ATV riders pass a car in Barnes Corners.
pl
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playin’ snirty PHOTOS BY AMANDA M O R R I S O N | N N Y O U T D O O RS
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Veteran outdoors guide Mart Allen casts a line in the Moose River near Old Forge. Mr. Allen, 78, has been guiding since 1978.
TONY MACHIA | NNY OUTDOORS
COVER STORY
A lifetime in the north country
Wilderness Longtime outdoorsman, guide has led generations in rugged outdoors By NORAH MACHIA | NNY OUTDOORS
When Mart Allen graduated from the New York State Ranger School at Wanakena in 1950, he couldn’t get a job right away. In fact, he had to wait several years before breaking into the field. “It was all political back then,” and only those who had some type of connection to a state government official could get hired as a forest ranger, said Mr. Allen, 87, of Thendara. So he actually started a roofing business in Phoenix until New York State implemented a civil service test for forest rangers in 1957. Mr. Allen was one of the first eight people to take the open competitive state exam.
After he passed that exam, Mr. Allen was assigned to cover the Old Forge region of the Adirondacks. He continued to work in the region until retiring in 1992. “We were all hired right off the list” of those who had passed the first civil service test, he said. Mr. Allen has made his home in the Adirondacks since 1958, except for a period of time when he relocated to Cortland after being promoted to district forest ranger. But he returned to the Old Forge area after a few years at that assignment, and has stayed since then.
Mr. Allen became a licensed guide in 1978, at a time when there were “no depth finders or marine GPS systems” to help fishing parties find the best catch, he said. “Nobody was using spring fishing rods either,” Mr. Allen added. Mr. Allen did it the “old-fashioned” way, taking a rowboat to locations that he had known for years as the best fishing spots in that region of the Adirondacks. He started guiding on his free time after joining the Adirondack League Club, a private landowners’ organization which serves as a hunting and fishing club. It was SPRING / SUMMER 2015
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guns,” Mr. Allen said. “Now we have more plished writer. For nearly 20 years, he has established in 1890, and the club owns more people hiking and bird-watching.” written a weekly column for the Adirondack than 50,000 acres that is used by its mem However, fishing is still popular in the Express newspaper, based in Old Forge. He bers, many of whom are very active in land Adirondacks, he said. Some of the most only recently cut down to every other week. conservation efforts as well. common species in the region’s lakes and “We just love him,” said Adirondack “I started guiding parties on my time off” rivers include brook trout, lake trout, landExpress editor M. Lisa Monroe. “He’s a very and often had people stay overnight at a locked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth lodge owned by the private club, Mr. Allen important part of the paper. He’s been here bass, and splake — a hybrid of brook trout said. There were typically two guides for longer than anyone else.” and lake trout. The state Department of Mr. Allen is “one of the few contacts we groups of seven to eight people. have to the way things used to be” in the At that time, people would take a week off Environmental Conservation stocks tens of thousands of fish annually to promote fishAdirondacks, she said. work, pack “one trailer full of food and the ing in the Adirondack region. “Mart used to track beaver before there other full of booze” and head out into the “They want to give fishermen something were snowmobiles,” Ms. Monroe said. wilderness for a week of hunting or fishing for their money,” Mr. Allen said. “Any adventure, Mr. Allen said. “He used to walk way back into the woods body of water in the Adirondacks is usu “We used to have a ball,” he said. on snowshoes. He was in the middle of no“We earned $25 a day where, and he couldn’t plus tips.” just ride out. It was a He recalled taking one real commitment.” The editor noted the hunting party into the Mr. Allen has mainwoods, where a few of tained a wealth of them had shot some deer. knowledge about fishAs he was preparing the — Mart Allen, veteran outdoors guide and retired forester. ing, hunting and trapdeer for dinner, one of the ping in the Adirondack men in the hunting party region. Throughout the years, Mr. Allen insisted that they cook the liver of the deer, ally good for fishing.” has also continued to be as physically acclaiming it was the best part of the animal. Although Mr. Allen retired in 1992, he has tive as possible. Mr. Allen suggested they skip the liver beremained at his home in Thendara, which he “He may not be able to trap anymore, cause of a concern for parasites (also known shares with his wife, Nancy, a former flight but he can still fish, even after having knee as deer flukes) that had been found in the attendant. Their Adirondack home is often replacements,” Ms. Monroe said. livers of deer recently shot in that area. But visited by their three children, eight grand In 2013, Mr. Green published selections the man kept insisting. children and four great-grandchildren. from his long-running column in the Ad “So I purposely cut up the liver in front of Mr. Allen still fishes, and often catches irondack Express in a book titled “Adironthem, and when they say one of those flukes brook trout in the Moose River which runs dack Character — Builds a Community.” come out, they decided there was no way behind his home. He takes frequent walks on Mr. Green’s columns convey a “nice they were going to eat that liver,” he joked. his property accompanied by his two dogs. message for our older readers, that there Mr. Allen had many regular customers, “I’m going to wear out before I rust out,” are things they can still do. It’s also motiincluding a young man from Rochester he quipped. vation for our younger readers, because enrolled in dental school. Mr. Allen also does forestry consulting if he can get out there, they can, too,” “He paid me $15 a day, and we let him work for companies interested in timber sleep in our cellar,” Mr. Allen recalled. “He Ms. Monroe said. sales, and maintains a website, martallen. just wanted the opportunity to hunt deer.” com. The website is used by Mr. Allen as a n norah machia is a freelance writer who In recent years, however, fewer people forum to share his opinions on a variety of lives in Watertown. She is a 20-plus-year veteran seem to be interested in hunting, he said. issues regarding the Adirondack region. journalist and former Watertown Daily Times “Many young people don’t want to shoot The retired forest ranger is also an accomreporter. Contact her at norahmachia@gmail.com.
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Many young people don’t want to shoot guns. Now we have more people hiking and bird-watching.
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What to look for when hiring an outdoor guide Interested in hiring a guide for camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, or even for some paddle sports? The New York State Outdoor Guides Association maintains a list of licensed guides on its website nysoga.org. They are listed in alphabetical order with designated regions in the state, but you can also search for guides specific to a particular activity as well. “There are a few different guide categories for licensing in New York State,” said Scott Locorini, president of the NYS Outdoor Guides Association and owner of Adirondack Exposure, Old Forge. “In order to get a guide’s license in New York State for hunting, fishing, camping and hiking, you must take a written test, have taken a water safety class and be certified in first aid and CPR.” “Once you have passed the test and shown proof of the CPR and water safety, you need a medical form filled out by a doctor stating that you are fit enough to guide,” he added. Those who are interested in applying to be a whitewater rafting, canoe, kayak, rock or ice climbing guides must have additional proof of skills training completed at a state authorized training center, Mr. Locorini said. The NYS Outdoor Guides Association not only promotes guiding and member guides throughout the state, but also acts as a liaison between the licensed guides and the state Department of Environmental Conservation, he said. Mr. Locorini has more than 20 years of guiding experience in New York State and Maine, and is also certified in paddle sports instruction through the American Canoe Association. Adirondack Exposure offers guided canoe, kayak, hiking and fishing trips in the Adirondacks, as well as several different states and Costa Rica. Multi-Sport Adirondack vacations and kayak vacations are a central focus of the agency. Visit the website adirondackexposure. com to learn more. The most popular recreational and sporting activities in the Adirondacks are “by far, hiking. Followed by paddle sports,” Mr. Locorini said. “The guided fishing trips that I do are usually for folks who already here on vacation,” he said. “Once in a while we will get some fishing clients that come in just for fishing, but it’s rare.” However, the Adirondack region is actually a great place to fish, he said. “Ironically, the fishing is awesome in my area, and folks who do come to fish end up coming back year after year,” Mr. Locorini said.
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Daniel Heneka, Clayton, uses binoculars on a hike on the Macsherry Trail during a Thousand Islands Land Trust signs of spring trek in April in Hammond.
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JASON HUNTER | NNY OUTDOORS
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in search of soaring species
North country birders on the trail of winged wonders By gabrielle hovendon | NNY OUTDOORS
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Top 10 most common birds found in Northern New York
American Yellow Warbler
Bobolink
Common crow
Eastern Whip-poor-whil
Marsh wren 28
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An interesting thing happens when talk to a birder. They may speak calmly about binoculars, migratory patterns or the weather. They might mention endangered species or an abiding love of the great outdoors. But at some point they’ll begin to talk about the birds themselves, and then the tone shifts. The words grow awestruck, trancelike, enthused. The birds become superlatives: the fantastic eagle, the gorgeous warbler. Lynn Barber, a member of the Texas Ornithological Society and a lifelong birder, writes on the American Birding Association’s blog: “I expect that balanced, normal people, whose birding interests (if any) are healthily balanced by other interests and pursuits, do not understand those of us who have a birding obsession. The problem is – I really cannot expect others to understand my birding obsession when I do not even understand it myself. Why do I wake up each morning trying to figure out how I can fit in birding that day, or lie awake at night planning where my next birding adventure will be?” It’s a good question. What it is about birdwatching that makes people become excited or obsessed? What causes them to devote large amounts of time (and sometimes money) to a pursuit that’s all about seeking an elusive raptor or wren? As it turns out, there are different answers for different people. Gerry Smith, a semi-retired ornithologist who is active in organizations including the Ontario Bays Initiative and Onondaga Audubon Society, says not all birdwatchers are birds of a feather. “Like everything else in the human endeavor, there’s no such thing as ‘a’ birder,” he said. “There’s a great variety of differences. There are people who like to collect as many sightings of rare birds as they can. That’s one extreme, and the other extreme is people who just enjoy watching their feeder.” For some, the motivation to be a birder comes from a desire to be closer to the great outdoors. Sarah M. Walsh, the director of land conservation with the Thousand Islands Land Trust, said she enjoys the contrast between the frenzy of our technological lives and the serenity of the natural world. “It’s one of our last true connections to nature,” Ms. Walsh said. “You can see birds anywhere, even in the thick of a huge city. That’s one of the special things about birding, how it does connect us to
nature regardless of what kind of landscape we’re in.” For others, birding provides an opportunity to travel or spend time outdoors. Irene M. Mazzocchi, a senior wildlife biologist at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, has been involved in the birding world for many years and makes sure to schedule birdwatching time whenever she travels to a new place. “I just find it exciting,” she said. “I think it’s a challenge because I’m always learning something, whether it’s a call or a new bird, and I’m an outdoors person, so I just like being outside. I like the challenge of being able to figure it out.” Still other birders enjoy the pastime because of the anticipation of spotting new or unusual birds. “I think it’s a little RESOURCES: Turn bit of the mystery to page 30 for a or the excitement look at the top 10 about it,” said least common birds in Elizabeth J. TrusNNY, a list of birding websites for beginkowski, a native of ners and top locations Hammond and a for bird watching. wildlife technician at the state aDEC. “At any time, a different bird could show up. When you go out in the field you never really know what you’re going to find. It changes seasonally, especially up here; there’s different birds up here in the winter than there are in the summer.” Regardless of their reason for getting involved, people in Northern New York have abundant opportunities for birdwatching. Because of the region’s location under the Atlantic Flyway, about 280 distinct species migrate through the north country each year, and almost any kind of migratory bird that exists in eastern North America can be found somewhere in Jefferson, Lewis or St. Lawrence County at some point during the year. “We’re kind of in the hotspot,” Ms. Mazzocchi said. “When I meet with other biologists and talk about the things I have to do to manage our threatened and endangered species, they say, ‘We don’t have those species, we don’t see those kind of things.’” To name just a handful of birds one might encounter in the north country: chickadees, sparrows, golden-winged warblers, Baltimore orioles, American redstarts, snowy owls, long-tailed ducks, northern pintails, tundra and mute swans, osprey, common loons, bald eagles and peregrine falcons. There are also great opportunities for or-
ganized birdwatching in the north country. For example, the Thousand Islands Land Trust hosts annual bird-related treks led by naturalists and other scientists, and the Indian River Lakes Conservancy in Redwood hosts an annual “Birds, Blooms and Bugs” guided hike, held this year on May 9. On May 30, the Thousand Islands Land Trust will also host a new “For the Birds” celebration on its Zenda Farms Preserve in Clayton. The half-day event will feature a variety of workshops for “kids, families, birders and birders-in-training” and will teach birdcall identification, nest building and birdhouse construction. The North Country Bird Club is another
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of the world’s largest biodiversity data resources, allows birders to log sightings and locations of birds and to share information with other birders. Jeffrey S. Bolsinger, a migratory bird biologist at Fort Drum, recommended that beginners first familiarize themselves with a few areas and species rather than trying to see it all. “I think the best way to learn about birds is really to go to one or two places again and again,” he said. “It gives you a really good understanding of how bird populations undergo changes through the year. When most birders start, they just want to maximize their list as soon as
Northern harrier
I think it’s a little bit of the mystery or the excitement about it. At any time a different bird could show up.
Red-winged blackbird
— Elizabeth J. Truskowski, Hammond native and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation technician. wonderful resource for people seeking likeminded birdwatchers. Founded more than 50 years ago, the club has 83 members and hosts group excursions to prime birding spots all throughout the summer and fall. “The members are very gracious and very helpful in teaching, answering questions, pointing out bird calls,” said Carolyn “Corky” Marlowe, the club’s president. “If you hear a birdsong, someone will say ‘listen, there’s a cardinal, there’s a goldenwinged warbler.’ The club is very environmentally oriented… and we’re all pretty compatible. The more experienced birders always help the newer ones out.” And what about those newer birders? How can they begin a hobby that seems impossibly specialized and arcane from the outside? Mr. Smith, who has been birding for more than fifty years, recommended that beginners familiarize themselves with local organizations such as the Onondaga Audubon Society and look for opportunities to go on field treks with other people. These treks, he said, are designed for all abilities and ages, “including those who are still trying to figure out which end of the binoculars to look through.” Another great resource is eBird, a website developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. The site, which has been accumulating one
possible. There’s always a tendency to see everything. I think it’s better to learn the same birds very well.” According to the experts, beginning birdwatchers should also invest in a decent Eastern field guide and pair of binoculars. Above all, they say, it’s important to take the hobby one step at a time. “A lot of people just get overwhelmed,” Ms. Truskowski said. “I have family members who say ‘How do you know what it is? There’s so many birds it could be.’ But if you start with the basics, with backyard or feeder birds, and just branch out from there, you can get a better grasp.” The good news: people taking up birdwatching this year will likely find themselves in good company. According to the Nature Travel Network, it’s the fifteenth most popular recreational activity in the United States, and local experts agree that birding continues to grow in popularity in the north country. In the end, the only way to understand the devotion, the excitement and, yes, the obsession that birdwatchers feel is to try it yourself. “It can be a lot more than a hobby,” Mr. Smith said. “It’s a great hobby, but it can be a lot more if people choose to make it that.”
Robin
Song sparrow
Starling
n GABRIELLE HOVENDON is a freelance writer and north country native who lives in Athens, Ga. She is a former Watertown Daily Times reporter. Contact her at ghovendon@gmail.com. SPRING / SUMMER 2015
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Top 10 least common birds found in Northern New York
BIRDING RESOURCES FOR BEGINNERS n The Onondaga Audubon Society, which includes Jefferson and Lewis Counties: onondagaaudubon.com n BirdSource, a partnership between the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology: birdsource.org
Sandhill crane
n The free eBird app, which allows users to log bird sightings across the word: ebird.org n The New York State Ornithological Association website: nybirds.org
Black tern
n The Second Atlas of Breeding Birds in New York State, which lists the distribution of all breeding birds in the state: dec.ny.gov/animals/ 7312.html and most bookstores
Caspian tern
n Oneidabirds, a local list with information on recent bird sightings and events: groups.yahoo. com/group/oneidabirds
Sedge wren
n The North Country Bird Club: Carolyn “Corky” Marlowe, 782-4705, or Bill Haller, haldex@ twcny.rr.com
Top north country birding locations North country experts give their top bird-watching locations by season.
Golden-winged warbler
n Derby Hill; March through May; migrating hawks, songbirds. n Black Pond Wildlife Management Area; April and May; diverse forest, wetland, and shore birds.
Short-eared owl
Trumpeter swan
n Perch River Wildlife Management Area; May and June; waterfowl, osprey, eagles, least bitterns, pied-billed grebes, black terns. n Minna Anthony Common Nature Center; late May and early June; wood warblers. n Tug Hill Wildlife Management Area; spring; Canada warblers, goshawks. n Zenda Farm Preserve; spring and summer; Eastern meadowlarks, bobolinks, cowbirds, grackles.
Henslow’s sparrow
n Upper and Lower Lakes; spring, summer and fall; songbirds, golden-winged warblers, waterfowl, Virginia rails. n Grass Lake Overlook Trail; spring, summer and fall; herons, rails, red-winged blackbirds, osprey, warblers, sparrows, barred owls. n Grindstone Island Preserves; summer; warblers. n Thousand Islands; spring and fall; waterfowl. n Southwick Beach State Park; fall; waterfowl, hawks, songbirds. n Point Peninsula Wildlife Management Area; winter; raptors, hawks, snowy owls, snow buntings, Lapland longspurs. n Fishers Landing/Grass Point State Park; winter; ducks.
Least bittern
Upland sandpiper
n Robert Moses State Park; winter; waterfowl and bald eagles. SOURCE: Onondaga Audubon Society
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47th annual decoy & wildlife art show JULY 17-18th (cerow rec park arena, 615 east line rd., Clayton) River, nature and wildlife art are just part of the 46th Annual Decoy & Wildlife Art Show hosted by the Thousand Islands Museum. One of the longest-running shows of its kind in the country. 9am - 6pm Friday and Saturday. www.timuseum.org
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features
AMANDA MORRISON | NNY OUTDOORS
John Cramer casts his line into a pond in the town of Watertown while fishing for bullhead last month. Bullhead fishing is a Northern New York tradition.
A timeless tradition Bullheading in Northern New York: the good, the bad, the ugly By kris rusho | NNY OUTDOORS
Lantern lights glitter and crackle along the banks of the St. Lawrence River on a late evening in March. The twinkling glow conjures up memories of meals and midnight rides with family and friends, cane poles clanking against the side of the truck, freshly dug worms in a coffee can. We’ve all felt it with the lower temperatures and late April snow showers, only 32
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to have warmer degrees thrust upon us with little warning. But it’s what anglers and charters have been anxiously waiting for. Local waters need to be ice free so the fishing season can commence. Spring has arrived late for Northern New York, making that finite time to catch mud fish shorter than those who know where to fish would care. But the diehards are out there, poles resting on still frozen banks, intently watching their bobbers for any sign of a
bite. These precious weeks hold the time for one of the best upstate rituals around. Bullhead fishing. RELATED: The writer Ameiurus nebulorecalls bonding over sus, also known as the bullheads and shares brown bullhead. An her grandmother’s intelligent, but quite recipe for fry batter. unsightly genus of cat- Page 34 fish that populates the world, but mainly North America. By land or by boat, the bullhead favors the prepared
talking about brown bullheads, but there is a nostalgic adrenaline rush that comes with the outing. They can be a miserable catch, teaching indelible lessons on the importance of patience, safety and tall tales of the one that got away. Even after you’ve wrestled them up and out of the water, their slick underbellies and sharp spines make them hard to handle. Their pectoral spine can deliver a mild venomous sting when mishandled. But nothing that some Bactine and a Band-Aid can’t fix.
And doing it over and over again is a messy proposition best done near water. It’s one of the less glamorous parts of the event. Where lifeless heads are scattered in marshes for the crows to consume. Known to be a rough fish and originally thought unfit for consumption, because of its boney insides, the bullhead quickly gained popularity thanks in part to annual bullhead feeds thrown by local fire departments, groups and municipalities as fundraising events. Even restaurants joined in, offering bullhead dinners for a limited time, although the time of getting bullheads from private sellers is mostly obsolete due to regulations. Now, bullheads come mainly from food processors and dealers. In Fisher’s Landing, PJ’s River Rat Café’s outdoor sign blinks with the bullhead dinner headliner. While the costs of doing bullhead business has increased, the popularity of the dinner has also turned into a profitable venture. People will travel from miles around to dine on them, pan or deep fried, sautéed spicy or salty. It may sound crazy to those who think the bullhead tastes like the filth it prefers to reside in, but the tender white meat, when prepared right, tastes like a night on the water. As summer begins to draw closer, now is the season of walleye and crappies. Fish that thrive in the light and twist on the ends of flashing lures. A more refined catch, perhaps. But nothing compared to the thrill of night time reeling. The bullheads have burrowed away until next year, when the dance starts all over again.
courtesy ROBERT HOFFMAN
fisherman. Aggressive fighters, they snap fishing line like straw, prone to swallowing bait and hook whole. Unlike some of their more regal brethren, the northern pike or largemouth bass, the bullhead isn’t a picky eater. Bait can range from night-crawlers and earthworms, to minnows, a piece of string or to tried-and-true lures. Using a stronger grade of fishing line, sometimes string on a cane pole, add on a heavy sinker to ensure bait sinks to the bottom where bullheads tend to reside in the mud and muck. Nocturnal creatures, they burrow into the dimly lit silt, digging tunnels to mate in. Perhaps they are a romantic fish at heart. As a child growing up on the St. Lawrence River, I learned that everyone has their “spot.” Perhaps a grandparent’s grandparent discovered it. Or its been a known locale for years. I’ve heard of catching them by the dozens on the banks of French Creek in Clayton, the Perch River tributaries in Brownville, the marsh in Dexter, Chaumont Bay, up to the gorgeous lakes of the Adirondacks. For my family, it was the bridge on Grindstone that runs over the tail end of Delaney Bay. A fresh water source with running water, dragonflies and mosquitos flying, cattails and weeds growing plentiful, it’s an ideal place to catch bullheads. On any given night, you’ll take a ride down the gravel road and see fishermen and women, sitting on buckets and folding chairs, waiting sometimes mere seconds before their bobber disappears beneath the surface. With a great yank and a little luck, you’ll have landed your first brown bullhead from shallow depths. You’ll understand the joy of wrestling this bottom feeder through the reeds. Maybe joy isn’t the right word when
After unhooking your catch, bullheads can be placed into buckets of marsh water they were residing in. Twenty, 30, sometimes 50 of them, bunkered together, writhing and gaping up at you as you start the process all over again. To be fair, it is an addictive sport. One that brings many friends and family together annually. And learning how to properly clean and fillet a bullhead is only a Google search away. Filleting a bullhead seems easy enough. Remove the head, remove the tail. Pliers to pull off the skin. But there’s a method to it.
n kris rusho is a St. Lawrence River native, fisherman, avid outdoorsman and former journalist who lives in Watertown. Contact her at kris. rusho@gmail.com.
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FIRST person
I will always remember bonding over bullheads with grandparents Bullhead fishing was the gateway to having a relationship with my grandmother and grandfather. She, the cook, he the fisherman, each teaching us the value of learning to fish. If I’m honest, grandpa Rusho had the more dangerous of the jobs. Teaching me how to cast a cane pole didn’t come without consequences. On one of my earliest outings with him, he told me to cast away and I somehow had hooked his ear, yanking him toward the water. Needless to say he wasn’t thrilled, but it didn’t stop him from taking my sister and me to Delaney Bay marsh on Grindstone Island to fish into the late night and early morning hours. The process of bullhead fishing started around dusk, my sister and I dressed in flannels and fleece, shoveling dirt behind the old chicken coop to scrounge up enough earthworms for bait. Then, untangling the cane poles from one another, re-tying the string lines and threading the bobber and sinkers. Laying the poles out side by side, ready to be looped around the side of our Mazda truck. Step by step. Each momentary attention to detail was a necessity to my grandfather. My grandfather taught me how to properly hold a bullhead to dislodge the hook from its maw by giving me a workman’s glove to start and a pair of needle nose pliers. Arrogance set in at some point, since I
remember many times ditching the glove and going for it barehanded. It was almost a strange game of thrill seeking to see who wouldn’t get stabbed. The result was bleedKris Rusho ing stuck fingers usually. But after a time, it became second nature, placing my index and ring fingers behind the gills, ring and thumb holding the pectoral fins against its sides. My palm pressing the dorsal fin down against its spine. A slight twist of the pliers and the fish was free, mouth gaping, its barbels twitching. The next morning, the rule was if you caught it, you had to clean it. Cleaning knives, pliers and tweezers, the large stained wooden board and placing it on the tailgate of the truck for a work station. It’s a messy business, one of blood and guts and we were very aware of it early on. My grandmother, I remember covered in flour and seasoning, her apron strings dangling. Washing the fillets in a metal bowl and cool, running water. Rolling them over and over in the flour, sprinkling salt and pepper. Then repeating as the oil in the
Grandma Rusho’s bullhead fry batter (covers four fillets) INGREDIENTS 2 eggs ¼ cup whole milk (recommended) 2 cups flour Salt & Pepper to Seasoned Taste Cooking oil (I recommend good, old Canola oil) INSTRUCTIONS In a bowl, mix flour, milk and eggs until blended. In a fry pan, place a gracious amount of oil over low heat. Dip your fillet into batter and coat it fully. Then place into pan. Usually about 3 minutes on each side or until a nice golden brown on both sides. Salt and pepper and serve. Straight forward and delicious with cornbread. fryer pan warmed. The spatter and sizzle as you lay the first fillet in the pan. The smell. The crunch and flavorful taste. It has to be experienced to be believed. It is, in short, one of the best memories I have of growing up in the area. One that is shared by hundreds who had similar experiences in early angler adventures. n kris rusho is a St. Lawrence River native, fisherman, avid outdoorsman and former journalist who lives in Watertown. Contact her at kris. rusho@gmail.com.
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Outdoor ADVENTURes Adams
Sunday, Sept. 13 n Fifth annual bicycle heart ride, 9 a.m., Adams Village Municipal Building, 3 S. Main St. Hosted by South Jefferson Rescue Squad. Choice of five- or 20-mile routes. Cost: by Aug. 25: five-mile ride, $20; 20-mile ride, $30; after Aug. 25: five-mile ride, $25; 20-mile ride, $35. Information/register: southjeffheartride.com.
Adams Center
Sunday, AUG. 15 n Eighth annual “Ta Ta” Run, 9 a.m., FX Caprara Harley-Davidson, 17890 Goodnough St. Hosted by Watertown Chrome Divas. Registration slated for 9 a.m. at FX Caprara; kickstands up, 11:00 a.m. Ride ends at Adams VFW, 3 VFW Drive. Includes raffles, food, auction and music. Cost: rider, $20; passenger, $15; includes dinner. Information: chromedivas.com.
Black River
Sunday, June 28 n Michael J. Cerroni Memorial 5K Run/ Walk, 7 a.m., 101 Public Works Drive. Benefits Michael J. Cerroni Memorial Scholarship. Post-race festivities include food, live music, raffles and awards. Race day registration and packet pickup slated for 7 to 8:30 a.m.; race start, 9 a.m.; awards ceremony, 10 a.m.; start of door prizes, 10:30 a.m. Cost: preregistered, $25; race day, $30. Information: racedirector@michaelcerroni5k.com or michaelcerroni5k.com.
Cape Vincent
Sunday, JULY 19 n Tibbetts Point Run, 8 a.m., Cape Vincent Recreational Park, 602 James St. Includes 1K
Kid’s Fun Run, 5K and 10K. Registration slated for 8 to 9:45 a.m.; fun run, 9:30; 5K and 10K, 10 a.m. Cost: pre-registration, $20; race day, $25. Register: runsignup.com. Information: Cape Vincent Chamber of Commerce, 6542481 or capevincent.org/tibbitspointrun.pdf. Friday, Aug. 14 & Saturday, Aug. 15 n American Bass Anglers Weekend Series, Waterfront East End Park, E. Broadway St. Orientation scheduled for 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at CV Recreation Park, 602 S. James St.; weigh in, Saturday at Waterfront East End Park. Information: Shelley Higgins, 654-2481.
Carthage
SATURday, June 20 n Yoga Retreat, 3 to 6 p.m., 840 Edwards St. Includes yoga led by Satyana Yoga School instructor, herbal foot soaks, guided meditation, refreshments and more. Cost: $20. Information/register: alycehattiebea@yahoo.com. SUNday, July 12 n Third annual Shootin’ Trap for Trips, 8 a.m., Carthage Rod and Gun Club, 4500 Cold Springs Park Road. Cash prizes in many classes. Proceeds benefit Volunteer Transportation Center. Ages 11 and younger prohibited from shooting. Cost: $25. Information: VTC, 376-3777 ext. 223; 804-2163.
Chaumont
Sunday, Aug. 2 n Lyme Sprint Triathlon, 7 to 11:30 a.m., Chaumont Fire Hall, state Route 12E. Includes 600 meter swim or three mile kayak/canoe, 17.6 mile bike, and four mile run. Preregistration slated for 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 1. Race day schedule: registration 7 to 8 a.m.; pre-race meeting, 8 a.m.; canoe/kayak start, 8:30
a.m.; swim start, 9 a.m.; kids fun run, 11 a.m.; awards ceremony, 11:30 a.m. Cost: before July 25: individual, $40; teams, active military and younger than 20 years old, $30 per person; after July 25: individual, $50; teams, active military and younger than 20 years old, $40 per person. Checks payable to Lyme Parks and Recreation Committee, 27267 Three Mile Point, Chaumont, New York 13622. Information: Lyme Parks and Recreation Committee, 783-0995 or 649-2929; chaumontny.org/triathlon.htm.
Clayton
TUESDAY, JuLY 7 n The Thousand Islands Land Trust’s TeenTrek Paddle Board Adventure, 4 to 6 p.m., meet at Mary St. boat launch. Explore French Creek by paddle board or kayak. Limited number of paddle board rentals available, $15 rental fee. Preregistration required. Information/ register: tilandtrust.org, treks@tilandtrust.org or 686-5345. SATURday, JuLY 25 n Run for the River 5K/10K, 9 a.m., Frink Park, downtown. Registration at 7:30 a.m. Register online, by mail or in person. Awards for top male and female in each age category. Cost: by June 30: 5K, $25; 10K, $30; after June 30: 5K, $30; 10K, $35; Save the River members, $5 discount. Information: Save the River, savetheriver.org, 686-2010 or info@ savetheriver.org. SUNDAY, AUG. 23 n River Rat Triathlon, 7 a.m., Centennial Park. Proceeds to benefit Children’s Miracle Network. Consists of 600 meter swim or 3 mile kayak/ canoe/stand up paddleboard, 16.75 mile road bike and 3.3-mile run. Check in slated for
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7 a.m.; kayak/canoe/stand up paddleboard start, 8:30 a.m.; swim start, 9 a.m. Cost: by Aug. 1: individual, $50; team, $40 per person; Aug. 2 to Aug. 16: individual, $60; team, $50 per person; $10 additional fee to register race day. Register: active.com. Information: mbocciolat@shsny.com.
Hammond
Wednesday, June 10 n Thousand Islands Land Trust’s “Silver” Crooked Creek Kayak, 10 a.m., Crooked Creek Preserve. Includes basic kayak instruction; appropriate for all levels and senior-friendly. Limited number of kayaks available; $15 rental fee. Register in advance. Information/ register: TILT, 686-5345, treks@tilandtrust.org or tilandtrust.org.
Henderson Harbor
Saturday, July 11 n Henderson Harbor Triathlon, 6:30 to 11:30 a.m., Henderson Harbor Boat Launch, county Route 178. Hosted by the Children’s Home of Jefferson County and Credo Community Center for the Treatment of Addictions. Olympic event distances: 1.5K swim, 40K bike ride and 10K run. Sprint event distances: .75K swim, 20K bike ride and 5K run. Registration scheduled 6:30 to 7:45 a.m.; Olympic event, 8:30 a.m.; sprint event, 9 a.m.; children’s race, 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11 a.m.; awards ceremony, 11:30 a.m. Cost: by May 31: Olympic individual, $75; Olympic group, $100; sprint individual, $50; spring group, $75; after May 31: Olympic individual, $100; Olympic group, $150; sprint individual, $75; spring group, $125. Information: Kristin Stokwell, 777-9272 ext. 3011 or kstockwell@nnychildrenshome. com; hendersonharbortriathlon.com.
Lowville
Saturday, June 13 n Udderly Muddy Rugged Run, 8:30 a.m., Lewis County Fairgrounds track. Check-in slated for 8:30 a.m.; race, 9:30 a.m. Starts at fairgrounds, north on Route 812 and East Road to team challenges at Maple Ridge Centers. Cost: $20. Information: Mike or Jeanna Judd, 376-2640. Saturday, Aug. 8 n Maple City Triathlon, 8 a.m., Dobisky Center, 100 Riverside Drive. Includes 750 meter swim, 20K bike and 5K run. Cost: before May 31: individual, $65; teams, $80; June 1 to July 31: individual, $100; teams, $115; nonUSAT members, additional $12. Information/ register: Facebook.com/CGSWRacing and cgswracing@gmail.com. 36
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Outdoor ADVENTURes Old Forge
Saturday, June 27 n Kiwanis Old Forge Paddle Classic, 9 a.m., Hemmer Cottage. Registration scheduled 7:30 to 8:45 a.m., Hemmer Cottage; race start, 9am. Six mile race planned on First Lake, to Treasure Island and back; 12 mile to Alger Island on Fourth Lake and back. Barbeque and awards to follow. Cost: adult, $25; children 10 and younger, $10. Information: Sheila Brady, thorshannon@frontiernet.net or 369-6043. Sunday, Aug. 16 n Old Forge Triathlon, 7:50 a.m., Lakeview Avenue. Packet pick up scheduled beginning 6 a.m.; race, 7:50 a.m.; approximate time of award presentation, 10:15 a.m. Race to include 1000 meter swim, 18.5-mile bike and 4-mile run. Sponsored by the Enchanted Forest/ Water Safari. Cost: through July 31: $75; relay teams, $120; August 1 to race day: $80; relay teams, $125. Information/ register: atcendurance.com.
Sackets Harbor
Saturday, July 25 n Spokerride 2015, 9 .a.m., Third Alarm Building, 414 W. Washington St. Pack pickup and race day registration scheduled for 7:30 a.m.; race, 9 a.m. Benefits Livestrong Foundation and American Cancer Society. Two courses planned: 30 and 50 mile. Cost: by July 10,:30 mile, $35; 50 mile, $35; after July 10: 30 mile, $40; 50 mile, $40. Cost: 783-6258, poker@freewood.net or spokerride.net. Saturday, Sept. 12 & Sunday, Sept. 13 n Incredoubleman Triathlon, 8:15 a.m., Westcott Beach State Park, 12224 state Route 3. Select from sprint, Olympic or half-distance triathlons, aquabike, duathlon or relays. To earn
Incredoubleman achievement, participant must complete 1.25 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride and 13.1 mile run each day. In-person registration slated for 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11; race-day registration, 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. each day. Cost: $65 to $360, depending on race combination choices; non-USAT members, additional $12. Information/register: incredoubleman.com or wayne@doublevisionracing.com.
Saranac Lake
Saturday, Aug. 22 n Pat Stratton Memorial Bicycle Ride, 8 a.m., Mount Pisgah Ski Area, 92 Mount Pisgah Road. Century ride scheduled for 8 a.m.; 50-mile ride 10:30 a.m.; 25-mile ride, 11:30 a.m.; children’s ride, 2 p.m. Rides start and end Mount Pisgah Lodge. Day to include food and music. Benefits Saranac Lake Kiwanis Club youth programs. Cost: century ride, $45; 50mile, $40; 25-mile, $35; children’s ride, free; active duty military and law enforcement, free. Information/register: Dan Reilly, (518) 8911616 or adkbuild@roadrunner.com; bikeadirondacks.org/events/stratton.
Syracuse
Saturday, AUG. 2 n Iron Girl Syracuse, 7 a.m., Oneida Shores Park, 9248 Mckinley Ridge Road, Brewerton. Women’s only triathlon includes 600 meter swim, 30K bike ride and 5K run. Must be 15 years old to participate. Cost: $130. Information: irongirl.com/Events/Syracuse.
Watertown
Saturday, JUNE 6 n Madden’s 5K Color Blast, 10 a.m., Thompson Park. Includes color blast walk/run, food and music. Participants in walk/run receive
discounted admission to Thompson Park Zoo. Benefits Heartbeats for Madden Foundation. Cost: $35; children 10 and younger, free. Information/register: eventbrite.com. Saturday, Sept. 12 n Run for Recovery, 9 a.m., Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds Agricultural Building, 970 Coffeen St. 5k run/walk and 10k run to raise money for Watertown Urban Mission Bridge Program, in memory of Gavin Tedford. Includes lunch, face painting, music, auction and more. Same day registration, 6:30 a.m.; run/walk, 9 a.m. Pre-registration cost: $20; military or student, $18; team of six, $105; team of six military or students, $96. Same day registration: $25. Information/register: Urban Mission, watertownurbanmission.com.
Wellesley Island
Saturdays, June 13, July 4, Aug. 1, Sept. 5 & Oct. 3 n Spider’s Fishing Programs, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, Wellesley Island State Park, 44927 Cross Island Road. Two programs offered each day: basic fishing, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; fly fishing basics, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Limited tackle provided; bring your own if possible. Free. Information: nature center, 482-2479. SUNDAY, JUNE 14 n Children’s Fishing Derby, noon to 3:30 p.m., Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, Wellesley Island State Park, 44927 Cross Island Road. For children 14 and younger. Prizes in three categories: longest, heaviest and most fish. Fish must be taken with rod and reel; all legal baits allowed. Preregistration required. Cost: $2. Information: nature center, 482-2479.
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The treestand chronicles
A memorable midnight visitor during an Adirondack adventure As the furry face appeared above the edge of the lean-to, I was alarmed and excited to see the wild creature. I wasn’t too worried about the creature getting to me in the back of the lean-to. Between the animal and me was a sleeping giant whose bald head shined in the bright moonlight. As an 11-year-old living in rural Oswego County, I spent my time exploring the woods and wetlands behind my family’s home. With a 1,000-acre wild playground, it was a great place to go on journeys and enjoy the outdoors. It created a desire to explore mountains and forests elsewhere. To go beyond the 1,000 acres I knew, to areas unknown and bigger. When my uncle and cousins came over one Saturday evening, I could hear my father and uncle talking about going backpacking. I tried to hear what they were saying but with the games my five cousins and my buddy who lived next door were playing, it was hard to home in on their conversation. I knew something exciting was brewing. I finally broke away from the fun and slipped into the dining room where my uncle, brother and father sat. My dad asked me if I wanted to go hiking in the Adirondack Mountains. I’m sure my smile had to have been from ear to ear. I asked where we were going to hike. In my mind I could only imagine names like Kilimanjaro, Everest or McKinley! I didn’t quite know where they all were but I knew they were mountains. “Cowhorn Pond,” my dad replied. “Cowhorn Pond?” I thought. “OK, what mountain is called Cowhorn Pond?” I asked myself. As I listened to the conversation I learned that we were hiking in to a pond called Cowhorn Pond, somewhere near
a place called Cranberry Lake. Cowhorn Pond, really? Finally getting to go on a grand adventure in real mountains and it’s to some place called Cowhorn Pond? After months of planning, the day of my “safaJay Matteson ri” came. Believe me, I was excited, very excited, to finally go on a trip into the mountains. The beauty of the Adirondacks quickly masked my disappointment over the name of our destination. It was so cool as we began hiking down the trail. At last, a journey into the mountains beyond my 1,000-acre woods. I was excited to anticipate giant black bears chasing us through the woods. I knew I’d subdue them. There was also going to be incredible trout fishing. Huge trout would jump out of the wild rivers onto my lines! Three hours later the backpack was cutting into my back. The pain was almost unbearable. So this safari thing wasn’t quite what I expected. Where were the dudes who carried the English adventurers stuff so they could look cool and shoot the charging tigers? Why didn’t we have any of them so I could ditch this backpack? As I awoke to the rustling sounds outside our lean-to, I was immediately thinking a huge black bear had arrived to devour one of us. Glad I was smart enough to choose the very
back of the lean-to, I wondered who would be the first the bear would pick for a meal. It would have to be a very hungry bear to get as far as me. I heard the noise come around to the front of the cabin. I peered into the moonlit darkness, waiting to see the giant hulk with huge white dagger-like canine teeth looking at us like fresh choices on a menu. Then the furry face appeared above the edge of the lean-to. Phew, it wasn’t the hungry angry bear I expected. But I also knew raccoons could be nasty, snarly critters from my encounters with them at home. What was the coon going to do? It climbed on top of the ledge. And there lay the sleeping giant, my uncle with his big bald head, glistening in the moonlight. “Dad” I whispered. “Shhh” my dad whispered back, “I see it. Let’s see if it jumps on your uncle’s bald head.” My dad chuckled. After a moment or two my father relented on his vision of watching his younger brother roar out of his sleeping bag with an ornery raccoon attached, and spoke loud enough to startle the coon and the sleeping hulk of my uncle. My uncle immediately rose into action, chasing the coon around camp, throwing frying pans and pots and kettles at it. The noise awoke everyone within 100 miles, the roar of my giant uncle chasing a little raccoon. I suddenly realized what camping and hiking with family was all about. It wasn’t the name of the destination, but the roaring laughter you could have getting there that really mattered. n Jay M. Matteson is an avid outdoorsman, naturalist and Boy Scout leader who lives in southern Jefferson County with his wife and son. He graduated from Unity College in Maine with a degree in wildlife biology. His column appears in every issue.
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