"Gems" in the RC #45 Region
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Image : Classroom building at Heiberg Memorial Forest, SUNY-ESF, Preble, New York
Image attribution : David A. Sonnenfeld - Professor of Sociology and Environmental Policy at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
Heiberg Memorial Forest: A Natural Gem in Preble, NY
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Preble, New York, lies the serene oasis known as Heiberg Memorial Forest. This hidden gem, spanning over 200 acres, offers visitors a peaceful retreat into the heart of nature, where towering trees, winding trails, and diverse wildlife abound. From tranquil walks to educational adventures, Heiberg Memorial Forest beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to explore its pristine beauty and discover the wonders it holds.
A Rich History
With the rural makeup of most of Chenango County, Bowman Lake State Park provides opportunities of quiet and relaxation during all 4 seasons. Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, hunting, and winter snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are favorite activities here. It is a 967-acre remote retreat known as “a camper’s paradise”. Scenic park roads wind through evergreen and hardwood forests to 150 campsites and 8 cabins. There is a sandy lakefront for swimmers and sunbathers with several picnic areas nearby. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, and birdwatchers can spot as many as 103 species of birds. There are over 13 miles of scenic trails for hiking as well as marked snowmobile and cross-country trails for winter enjoyment.
Bowman Lake State Park also participates in the Summer and Winter Parks Geocaching Challenge providing new summer and winter caches each year. President Vicki Darrow and her husband visit this park several times a year!
Skaneateles Lake is a natural wonder located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. It is a beautiful and pristine lake that is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. Skaneateles Lake is a popular vacation destination for people from all over the world, and it is easy to see why. In this "Gems in the RC45 Region" article, we will explore Skaneateles Lake in more detail, including its history, geography, and attractions.
Geography
Skaneateles Lake is located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State, about 20 miles southwest of Syracuse. It is one of the cleanest and most pristine of the Finger Lakes, with water so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom in some places. The lake is approximately 16 miles long and 1 mile wide, with a maximum depth of 315 feet. It is the sixth largest of the Finger Lakes by volume.
~reprinted from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Weekly Digest Bulletin.
~Annotated by T. Gath
Last month, DEC’s Carpenter Falls Unique Area and the adjoining Finger Lakes Land Trust’s Bahar Nature Preserve shared the honor of induction into the Old-Growth Forest Network, representing Cayuga County. The properties now hold the distinction of providing public access to picturesque forest that will be protected from harvesting and allowed to mature into old growth forest.
Carpenter Falls Unique Area and the Bahar Nature Preserve, contiguous properties in the town of Niles, together protect over 6,420 feet along Bear Swamp Creek, which flows through a dramatic 100-foot-deep gorge on its way to Skaneateles Lake. The forest within the gorge harbors Eastern hemlock, red oak, giant tulip trees, and very large oaks well over 100 years old. Together, the properties form a 90-acre retreat with a 1.6-mile trail that leads visitors through a stunning forest with impressive views and plunging waterfalls.
To maintain the unique, deep-shade forest habitat that hemlocks provide, emblematic of many gorges in the Finger Lakes region, both the DEC and the Finger Lakes Land Trust are treating the most ecologically important trees to protect against further infestation of the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid.
Beautiful lakes, spectacular views, waterfalls and cars, our retired council area has it all. Cars, cars, cars coming from a family that loves cars, Norwich is a must go to location. The Northeast Car Museum has over 170 classic and vintage cars and 28 motorcycles in 5 connected buildings. The museum opened in 1997 w
ith the help of local businessman, George Staley and his collection. My favorite section is the huge Fabulous Franklins. Herbert H. Franklin manufactured sedans, touring cars, speedsters, taxis and light trucks from 1902- 1934 in Syracuse. They remind me of fond trips visiting my college roommate’s father’s classic car collection including his prize Franklin in the early 80’s. He was so proud of his shiny cars. The Northeast Car Museum is open 7 days a week except major holidays from 9am to 5pm. Be sure to schedule several hours for your visit. The car museum is a fun location for all.