Memorial Day Weekend is upon us and after weeks of isolation and staying home many of us are itching to get out to the few places that are open to the public. While we here at the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program normally would encourage anyone to come and visit our region, we have to acknowledge that this year things are different. While COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations are declining we still need to do our part to ensure that the spread is limited and to keep new outbreaks from popping-up. To that end, while we want everyone to get outside and enjoy the weather we need to do so responsibly.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and many other regional groups have encouraged the following safety measures:
- Stay Local! Stay close to home, keep your visit short and avoid high-traffic destinations.
- Be Safe! Avoid crowds and groups (including crowded trailheads). Keep a distance of at least 6 feet from others. Alert others as you’re about to pass or step aside to let others pass.
- Be Ready! Move quickly through parking lots, trailheads and scenic areas. If a site is crowded, choose a different park, trail or time to visit.
- Stay Home! If you’re not feeling well, stay home. Anyone older than 70 or with a compromised immune system should also stay home.
If you’re local to the Ashokan Watershed we encourage you to visit some of our many streams. Kanape Brook in the Town of Olive and Rochester Hollow in the Town of Shandaken both have walking trails that mostly parallel the streams. Kenneth Wilson Campground has trails near the Little Beaverkill (camping is currently prohibited). Many of our streams, including the Esopus Creek, have public fishing access points along them where you can go angling. Visit the Ulster County REConnect Map to see those locations as well as other hiking, fishing and outdoor opportunities. Be sure to keep at least six feet apart, not share equipment, and sanitize your hands regularly.
We firmly believe that even during these difficult times you can (and should) get outdoors and do so safely and with respect for others. Responsible recreation is important even during normal times and now more than ever. Please do your part to maintain social distance and to keep yourself and everyone healthy.
Tags: recreate responsibly, recreation