DEC ADVISES CAUTION TO THOSE HEADING OUTDOORS THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND

June 30th, 2006 · No Comments · News

Take Notice of High Water Levels Due to Recent Heavy Rains

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is advising people to take caution if planning outdoors activities or planning to camp at State campgrounds this holiday weekend due to recent heavy rains in certain impacted areas. High water levels in streams, rivers, lakes and ponds in those areas have caused flooding and washouts of some campsites, boat launches, roads, and trails.

DEC has notified campers that had reserved campsites in impacted areas about closures and provided them with other available campsites, if possible. In addition, people who were currently camping have been moved to other available campsites or accommodations where possible. Conditions are changing each day, so campers planning to camp at DEC campgrounds this holiday weekend, in Regions 3, 4 and 5, are advised to call ahead before traveling.

Boaters should also be aware that logs and other floating debris are likely to have been flushed into lakes and rivers. These objects can be difficult to see and can cause damage to boats and motors. High and rapid waters in streams and rivers can also make navigating difficult. Paddlers should be aware that water levels have significantly increased the difficulty of rapids, and are advised to wait for the waters to recede. Additionally, swimming in rivers and streams impacted by recent rains is not advised.

Some DEC boat launches may not be functional due to high water levels in these areas. Gravel ramps at boat launches could have experienced washout below the waterline, so boaters are advised to be cautious about launching boats at these facilities.

Adirondacks – Region 5 – Notices

Central and Southern Hamilton and Fulton Counties experienced some of the worst flooding in the Adirondacks. Highways, roads and trails have all been impacted by flooding and washouts.

DEC is advising hikers, campers, anglers, paddlers and other recreationists not to enter the backcountry at this time and to reschedule activities for a future date when conditions have improved.

The Moose River Plains Wild Forest, Hamilton County, has been closed to motor vehicles due to flooding and washouts of roads. Gates are closed and locked at Limekiln Lake and Cedar River. Emergency repairs have begun but the road is not expected to open until after the 4th of July.

All DEC boat launch sites on the Great Sacandaga Lake are unavailable due to flooding and/or washouts. In the remainder of the Adirondack backcountry, water levels are high in streams, rivers, ponds and lakes and low water crossings may not be accessible. All trails are muddy and puddled, and trails along waterways, and in low areas, may be flooded. Also, additional blowdown, down or bent over trees and limbs from heavy winds associated with the rains may be found on trails. See Adirondack Trail Information on DEC website for more information.

Clinton County

Ausable Point – Currently the facility remains open but no reservations are being taken. Customers with existing reservations that are affected will be contacted. High water levels have been noted on Lake Champlain.

Essex County

Crown Point – The facility is open at this time; however no new reservations will be taken until July 12th. Customers with existing reservations that are affected will be contacted. Many sites and roads are under water and the ground is very soft. Approximately 30 sites have been impacted by the flooding conditions.

Lake Harris – Please be advised Lake Harris may have some campsite closures due to wet weather and it is recommended to call ahead if reservations have not been scheduled in advance.

Fulton County

Northampton Beach – This facility is currently closed. A small portion of the campground may be open for walk-ups when conditions permit, but no new reservations will be taken until July 19th. Customers with existing reservations that are affected will be contacted. The Lake is at record high level. The water and sewer systems have been shut down.

Hamilton County

Browns Tract Pond – No existing reservations have been canceled and the facility remains open. However, no new reservations will be taken until July 7th. Some sites and roads are under water or very wet.

Lewey Lake – No existing reservations have been canceled and the facility remains open. However, no new reservations will be taken until July 7th. Some sites and roads are under water or very wet.

Moffit Beach – The facility remains open, although there are some wet areas at the facility. No new reservations will be taken on 16 affected sites until July 6th. Customers with existing reservations that are affected will be contacted.

Forked Lake – Please be advised Forked Lake may have some campsite closures due to wet weather and it is recommended to call ahead if reservations have not been scheduled in advance.

Sacandaga – Please be advised Sacandaga may have some campsite closures due to wet weather and it is recommended to call ahead if reservations have not been scheduled in advance.

Warren County

Lake George Islands – The facility remains open although high waters are affecting some sites. No new reservations will be taken on the 19 sites until July 6th. Customers with existing reservations that are affected will be contacted.

Recreationists who still plan to hike, camp, or go boating are advised to have rain gear, appropriate foot wear, and waterproof storage for all gear and clothing. As always, they should not hike or camp alone, and should provide travel plans and Forest Ranger emergency contact number with someone at home. Know your abilities and be aware of the surrounding conditions. Be willing to turn back if or when conditions exceed your abilities.