For Immediate Release: January 12, 2010
Contact:
Keith P. McKeever | Public Relations | Adirondack Park Agency
contact@apa.ny.gov | (518) 891-4050
Marks the 45th Anniversary of the Federal Wilderness Act with Enhancement of Lows Lake-Bog River-Oswegatchie Wilderness Canoe Route
RAY BROOK, NY - Governor David A. Paterson today approved the classification and re-classification of lands in the Adirondack Park, totaling 8,002 acres, adding 7,965 acres to the Five Ponds and Round Lake Wilderness Areas and creating a new Eastern Five Ponds Access Primitive Area. This action is consistent with the long-standing State Land Master Plan goal of preserving the wild character of the Lows Lake-Bog River-Oswegatchie wilderness canoe route. The classifications and re-classifications were recommended by the Adirondack Park Agency, and represent a milestone in creating this important canoe route and protecting the lands and waters in the vicinity of Lows Lake.
"The Adirondack Park has inspired wonder and imagination for generations and is an irreplaceable part of our State's heritage," Governor Paterson said. "These new designations substantially advance the Lows Lake-Bog River-Oswegatchie wilderness canoe route, which was first envisioned in 1985, in continuance of our commitment to preserving these majestic lands for all New Yorkers for generations to come. The Adirondack regional economy stands to benefit from this increased opportunity for nature-based tourism operators and service providers to market this special place to visitors and residents."
Adirondack Park Agency Chairman Curtis F. Stiles said: "Governor Paterson's approval of this land classification package represents significant protection for critical natural resources while balancing opportunities for outdoor recreation and the many businesses within the Adirondack Park. This action provides a rare wilderness paddling experience for both Adirondack residents and visitors by linking Lows Lake and the Bog River to the Oswegatchie River, Lake Lila and Little Tupper Lake wilderness canoe route. This truly monumental achievement is a testament to the Governors commitment to the people and lands that constitute the Adirondack Park."
The Governor's action results in two State land classifications and four State land reclassifications totaling approximately 8,002 acres. These actions will:
- Reclassify the Lows Lake Primitive Area and a portion of the Hitchins Pond Primitive Area to Wilderness for inclusion into the Five Ponds and Round Lake Wilderness Areas;
- Create a new "Eastern Five Ponds Access" Primitive Area; and
- Classify newly acquired lands south of Lows Lake to Wilderness, added to the Five Ponds Wilderness Area.
In partnership with the Department of Environmental Conservation and after extensive public hearings, the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) prepared land classification recommendations for the Governor's review and approval. With this land classification, Governor Paterson and the APA mark the 45th Anniversary of the Federal Wilderness Act, which works to preserve our nation's forests, parks, wildlife refuges, and other public lands.
Opened to the public during the 1985 Forest Preserve Centennial celebration, the Lows Lake area has become a popular wilderness canoe and kayak area that offers a truly remote wilderness canoe experience and outstanding opportunities for solitude. This area provides opportunities for flat-water paddling, fishing, hunting, camping and hiking for people of all ages and abilities.
The Adirondack Park was established by legislative action in 1892 and was granted permanent protection in 1895 with an amendment to the New York State constitution, known as the "Forever Wild" clause. The Park, which encompasses approximately 6 million acres, contains 3,000 lakes, more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, and is home to 103 towns and villages and 130,000 permanent residents. Each year, millions of tourists visit the Adirondack Park to take advantage of the year-round outdoor activities.
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