FEBRUARY 2013

CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK AND LOCAL TRAIL RECEIVE GRANTS - The statewide advocacy group Parks & Trails New York awarded approximately $14,000 in grants, to 10 not-for-profit park and trail organizations. The Chestnut Ridge Park Conservancy and Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail have received awards. The winners will utilize these funds to increase visibility, generate community support, grow membership and attract additional volunteers. The Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail Inc. received $1,600 toward the production of a video, showcasing the proposed 27-mile rail trail. READ MORE.

LETCHWORTH PARK FRIENDS GRANT - The Friends of Letchworh State Park recently received a $2,550 grant from Parks & Trails New York. The grant will help the non-profit Friends of Letchworth promote itself and its work on behalf of the park. READ MORE.

SCIENTIST SAYS STATE PARKS PROTECT RARE SPECIES - SITES SEEN AS CRUCIAL HABITAT - Sites seen as crucial habitat - George Robinson spent his sabbatical as a visiting scientist for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation combing through a comprehensive database on the status and location of the state’s rare plants, animals and ecosystems. His goal, he said, was to learn more about New York’s rare species, and the role the state’s park system plays in protecting them. What he concluded is that the state parks are “major stewards of biodiversity,” and that even though New York’s parks comprise less than 1 percent of the state’s land area, they provide crucial habitat for rare animals, plants and ecosystems. READ MORE.

HUDSON VALLEY RAIL TRAIL MOST POPULAR IN HUDSON VALLEY - A first-of-its-kind survey estimates more than 2.2 million cyclists and pedestrians are using 14 of New York State's most popular trails each year. The results of the first state trail user count have been announced by the advocacy group Parks & Trails New York, along with the State Trails Council and the state parks office. The user counts, conducted by volunteers last August, focused on 14 of the state's greenway or multiuse trails. READ MORE.

PLANS AFOOT TO FILL GAP IN CANALWAY TRAIL - The last local gap in the recreational trail along the Erie Canal will be filled in over the next few years, state officials said last week. Construction bids for filling in the gap will be sought in October, according to Shane Mahar, deputy communications director for the state Canal Corp. READ MORE.

JANUARY 2013

SCHODACK PARK GROUP GETS GRANT -  A volunteer group that supports Schodack Island State Park has received a $1,000 grant from a not-for-profit park advocacy group. Friends of Schodack Island State Park received the grant from Parks & Trails New York to help develop a web site to help enlist more volunteers, said Dan Odell, president of the 2-year-old Schodack group. Last year, the volunteer group raised about $7,000 to support the 10th anniversary of the state park, which has a boat launch, picnic pavilions, playgrounds and game fields. The park draws about 75,000 visitors a year. #END

DECEMBER 2012

STATE AGAIN PROPOSES NO-SMOKING AREAS AT PARKS - The state is again trying to ban smoking in certain areas at parks and recreational facilities after a previous attempt was thwarted by a smoker's rights group. The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Recreation has proposed regulations that would prohibit smoking near playgrounds, athletic fields, swimming pools and other highly used areas at state-operated parks and historic sites. Under the plan, smoking would be restricted to designated areas within New York City's state parks. READ MORE.

OCTOBER 2012

FORUM, CYCLING TOUR SHOW LOCAL OFFICIALS HOW TOWPATH TRAVELERS EXPERIENCE ALBION, MEDINA - Cyclists come in the thousands each year down the Erie Canal Towpath, but those pedaling people are only potential consumers for canalside communities. Parks and Trails New York, the advocacy organization that organizes the annually Cycling the Erie Canal event that creates a 500-resident tent city in Medina, came to Albion this week to show local officials and business owners how they can attract visitors and consumers that may be speeding by just outside of their grasp. READ MORE.

READ MORE.NEW YORK STATE PARKS USE INFUSION OF MONEY TOWARD BACKLOG OF REPAIRS - HARRIMAN STATE PARK, N.Y. — Along the roads past lakes and campgrounds here, workers have been busy laying down fresh asphalt. Near Lake Cohasset, aging sewer lines are being replaced. Soon, dozens of frayed cabins that house disadvantaged children in the summer will receive makeovers, including new roofs. READ MORE.

SEPTEMBER 2012

ATTENDANCE AT NEW YORK STATE PARKS UP 2.3 MILLION - Buoyed by cooperative weather and several big-time events, attendance at state parks is up by more than 2.3 million visitors in 2012, according to attendance figures released Thursday. The state-managed parks and historical sites reported a total of 43.7 million visitors through the summer months this year, a 5.6 percent bump over the same period in 2011. READ MORE.

AUGUST 2012

BIKE-HIKE TRAIL USERS SURVEYED FOR COMMENT - Cyclists and pedestrians enjoying the Erie Canalway Trail may encounter college students with laptop computers hoping to ask a few questions. And it might be a good idea for those who enjoy the bike path to stop and answer those questions, because the survey could affect the trail’s future. Parks & Trails New York is informing residents about an ongoing survey project aimed at getting comments from as many as 800 people in an effort to put solid numbers on the trail’s impact on communities stretching from the Capital Region all the way to Buffalo. READ MORE.

NY PARKS GROUP PUBLISHES HUDSON VALLEY BIKE BOOK - A parks advocacy group has published a new guide for bicyclists who want to visit some of the Hudson Valley's many historic, scenic and cultural attractions. Parks and Trails New York says the 142-page guide book — titled "Cycling the Hudson Valley" — is geared toward biking enthusiasts who want to check out routes on both sides of the Hudson River between New York City and Albany. The book also lists campgrounds, breweries, wineries, bike shops, information centers, and service areas. It features 40 full-color maps of the region and can fit in bike saddlebags, backpacks or a vehicle glove compartment.The Hudson Valley guidebook is modeled after its companion publication, "Cycling the Erie Canal."END. The book costs about $24 and is available from the Parks and Trails website at www.ptny.org. #END

NEW GUIDEBOOK MAPS HUDSON VALLEY'S RICHES - A new guidebook maps bicycle routes, historic sites, wineries, bicycle shops and parks along the Hudson River between New York City and Albany. “The Hudson Valley is a perfect area for cycling,” said Robin Dropkin, executive director of Parks and Trails New York. “It has scenic beauty, cultural riches and history – everything a bicycle tourist wants.” “Cycling the Hudson Valley: A guide to history, art, and nature on the east and west sides of the majestic Hudson River,” contains 40 color maps, cycling tips, elevation profiles, and a virtual encyclopedia of things to see and do along the way. Created by Parks and Trails New York in partnership with Hudson River Greenway and Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, the 142-page guidebook is organized into bridge segments, covering approximately 400 miles of the region. READ MORE.

TAKING A HEAD COUNT AT THE ERIE CANAL - An economic impact study conducted along the Erie Canal is under way. Parks & Trails New York, a non-profit advocacy group, has partnered with a State University of New York at Geneseo professor to count the number of users along various sections of the canal. Paul Scipione, who teaches business and is the director of a research center at the college, will team up with 30 students for the remainder of this month and through August and survey 600 to 800 current trail users to gather data on demographics, trail usage and spending patterns, as well as overall trail experience. READ MORE.

JULY 2012

HURLEY RAIL TRAIL TO BE INCLUDED IN STATE USER COUNT - State officials are seeking to quantify the popularity of trails and will include the 2.2-mile section of rail trail along U.S. Route 209 in the first count of users. The survey will be conducted during several days in August by members of the Hurley Rail Trail Committee. “We along with (14) other rail trails will be doing this count,” committee Chairwoman Heather Hirsch said. “We’ll have four ‘count days’ with a day being a two-hour period that we’ll sit on the trail,” she said. “They want you to go one weekend day and three consecutive weekdays during that same week.” The count is being conducted by Parks & Trails New York, the New York State Trails Council, and the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Officials in a press release said there has not been a previous count conducted that can provide information on the number of people using the trails for walking, jogging and bicycling. READ MORE.

OUR VIEW: PUSH TO COMPLETE ERIE TRAIL THROUGH MOHAWK VALLEY - While the Erie Canal is enjoying resurgence as an economic engine in the quest to draw tourists, a key part of the puzzle is missing for the Mohawk Valley, and it needs to be put in place before the region can reap the kind of rewards being enjoyed by other canalside communities across the state.That puzzle piece is a vital stretch between Utica and Little Falls —one of just six sections left to be completed in the 524-mile multi-use trail. While some of the communities in this section are well on their way to developing canalside amenities, completing the link through the Mohawk Valley is paramount to their reaching potential. READ MORE.

'I LOVE MY PARK BECAUSE' CONTEST IN FULL SWING - Got an eye for photography? Then you’ll want to sign up for the “I Love My Park Because” contest that has taken the Hudson Valley by storm! This summer, New Yorkers are encouraged to show off their NYS park pride by submitting photos for a change to win big. Said Executive Direction Robin Dropkin, “We know New Yorkers love their parks and the parks protect natural resources, boost local economies, and give people a place to hike, swim, learn, relax and recharge. The ‘I Love My Park Because’ photo contest is an exciting new way to tap into that love and enthusiasm and generate greater awareness about all the benefits we receive from these treasured places.” READ MORE.

CTEC 2012 PRESS

ERIE CANAL BIKE TOUR PASSES THROUGH COUNTY (photo gallery) - The 14th annual, 8-day, 400-mile, Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour across New York State began July 8 in Buffalo. Last year more that 500 cyclists took part in the tour and it was great for local businesses. This tour passed through Wayne County on July 10 with riders filtering through each community at various times. Here are some scenes from this year's tour. To learn more about the Cycling the Erie Canal bike tour visit www.ptny.org. READ MORE.

SEN. TOM O'HARA: GROWING THE ECONOMY OUTDOORS - Did you know: Nearly one-half of the nation’s citizens, 141 million people, took part in an outdoor recreation activity last year; Americans made 11.6 billion outdoor outings in 2011, 1.5 billion more than the previous year; These participants averaged 82 outings annually. That’s according to a timely new report from the Washington, D.C.-based Outdoor Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established to “inspire and grow future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.” I say timely because it complements New York government’s reinvigorated efforts to encourage outdoor recreation. READ MORE.

ALASKAN ADVENTURER RETURNS TO ERIE CANALWAY - Peter Mckay first visited Lyons, NY on September 16, 2010. It was day number 16 of his kayak expedition thru the Erie Canal. On Friday July 20, 2012, Peter returned to Lyons. It was day number 50 of his bike ride from Anachortes, Washington to Bar Harbor, Maine, approximately 4300 miles! Peter is following the Northern Tier Bike Route, one of many adventure routes planned by the Adventure Cycling Association. Peter hopes to complete his journey in 8 weeks. Said Peter, “When I hit those darn brutal head winds in North Dakota, I could hardly move, and I began to wonder if I maybe was going crazy. READ MORE.

WORK ON ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL IN LYONS N Y SET TO BEGIN IN OCTOBER - A critical missing link in the Erie Canalway Trail in Lyons will be constructed beginning this year as crews continue their work on the trail between Newark and Lyons. Once completed, the new 1-mile trail segment between Abbey Park and Erie Canal Lock 27 will link to an Erie Canalway Trail segment currently under construction in the towns of Arcadia and Lyons, helping to create a 134-mile uninterrupted trail route from Lyons to Buffalo. The Lyons Erie Canalway Trail project will be constructed with Canal Corporation funds in partnership with Wayne County and the Village of Lyons. Features will include a new 10-foot wide asphalt trail, as well as informational and directional signage. Announcement of new trail construction came as more than 500 cyclists from around the country put foot-to-pedal for the 14th annual Cycling the Erie Canal event, a 400-mile bicycling tour along the route of the Erie Canal from Buffalo to Albany. READ MORE.

OUR AREA THROUGH THE EYES OF OTHERS - The Germans were a shock. Their bikes loaded with gear, they were looking for breakfast. The last thing I expected to find on my bike ride to work along the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail was a pair of hungry Germans.They were nearing the end of their tour of the Erie Canal from Buffalo to Albany. "You came from Germany to ride the Erie Canal?" I asked, trying not to sound incredulous. "Yes," the husband said matter-of-factly, as if the bike trail were filled with German tourists on a regular basis. "About the breakfast..." Hundreds of cyclists do tour the state each year as part of Parks and Trails NY's Cycle the Erie Canal ride, which finished in Albany last weekend. Those riders don't have to worry about finding their breakfast. The tour is fully supported, so participants get meals supplied, baggage shipped to the next stop and a resident bike mechanic in case a bike breaks down. It's great for families, casual riders and people who enjoy the celebratory atmosphere of the tour's "tent cities" that sprout up at each stop, including Collins Park in Scotia. Other riders, like the Germans, want more adventure, so they plan the trip themselves. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL CYCLISTS HIT HOMESTRETCH - Biking across upstate New Yrk has been great for Sal Page, who felt like a 12-year-old during the 400-mile trek, he said. But he's also ready to finish teh final 30 miles of journey today. "I'm tired. I'm 68 years old. I'm ready to rest," said the Erie County resident. READ MORE.

500 BICYCLISTS CELEBRATE COMPETION OF 400-MILE JOURNEY ALONG ERIE CANAL - 'Cycling the Erie Canal' concluded in Albany - Celebrating upstate New York's unique history and scenic beauty, 500 bicycle riders from 36 states joined with state and local officials at Quackenbush Square in Albany Sunday to mark the completion of Parks & Trails New York's annual week-long bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany. The Albany celebration recognized the riders' achievement and highlighted the importance of the Erie Canalway Trail to upstate New York's quality of life and economy. When the Canalway Trail is finished, it will be the longest statewide trail in the U.S. It is 75 percent complete along its 524-mile total length. Members of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's cabinet and executive staff joined the cyclists - aged 5 to 85 years - during the tour to connect with visitors and residents all along the historic Canal corridor and to emphasize the vitally important role of the canal as an economic development engine for canal communities. READ MORE.

ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL TO EXPAND IN LITTLE FALLS - Construction of a one-mile segment of the Erie Canalway Trail in the city of Little Falls will begin in September. That is according to Mayor Robert Peters who said during Monday night’s meeting of the city’s Board of Public Works the trail between the end of the James W. Miller Miracle Mile and Half Bike Trail on West Shore Street and State Route 167 will link to existing Canalway Trail segments to create a more than 40-mile continuous trail from Little Falls to Amsterdam. “Anything to draw people to the city of Little Falls is a good thing,” said Peters. “The trail is a resource for hikers, bikers and for those looking for family fun, and will hopefully prove to be beneficial for everyone. The trail will allow us to further showcase what the city has to offer.” READ MORE.

ENCOURAGE MORE BIKE TOURS -

CYCLIST VISIT ROME DURING ERIE CANAL TOUR - Waking up at 3 a.m., cracking over 900 eggs, and pouring thousands of cups of coffee is all in a days for volunteers at the YMCA in Rome. Nearly 40 YMCA volunteers and staff prepared a breakfast for roughly 540 riders who are on the 14th annual Cycling the Erie Canal Tour.
The 400-mile ride began in Buffalo on July 8 and will end in Albany on July 17. The bicyclists pedal between 40 to 60 miles along the Canal each day. On Thursday, riders stopped at Fort Stanwix to set up tents and spend the night in Rome. Oneida County Tourism provided shuttle buses for the cyclists to visit area restaurants and shops. The riders are also able to visit museums and historic sites while on tour. READ MORE.

CYCLISTS TO END ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL IN ALBANY - About 500 bicycle riders from 36 states will arrive in Albany Sunday to finish the annual 400-mile-long "Cycling the Erie Canal" ride along the Erie Canal that began in Buffalo on July 8. Several local, state, corporate and nonprofit officials will join them at about noon at 25 Quackenbush Square at the corner of Broadway and Clinton Street in Albany. "Cycling the Erie Canal" is sponsored by Parks & Trails New York to highlight the importance of the canal systems to upstate New York's quality of life. END.

ERIE CANAL TRAIL TO BE EXPANDED IN LITTLE FALLS - The Erie Canal has been around since 1825 in one form or another. The trails along it for walking or biking have been building up for the past couple of decades, but the trail system does not extend the entire length of the canal, yet. The head of the New York State Canal Corp, Brian Stratton is trying to change that. Stratton is taking part in the bike tour across the state from Buffalo to Albany called 'Cycling the Erie', and at a number of stops along the Erie Canal, he is making some major announcements. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL HIKE AND BIKE TRAIL TO BE EXPANDED - Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced that a new, eight-mile segment of the 365-mile Erie Canalway Trail is scheduled to begin construction in September 2013. The new expansion will close a gap in Niagara and Erie counties to connect Amherst and Lockport with a continuous 100-mile bike and hiking path. The new section will be an addition to the statewide Erie Canalway Trail linking the Hudson River to Lake Erie. Lockport Mayor Michael Tucker said, "The Erie Canalway Trail will continue to be a premier tourist destination and we welcome the boost to our economy this project will bring. This new construction will create jobs and expand the benefits the trail brings locally." READ MORE.

KEY LINK APPROVED FOR ERIE CANAL - A new, eight-mile segment of the Erie Canalway Trail that will connect portions of Amherst and Lockport is scheduled to go to bid. The trail will run from approximately the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village – formerly the Amherst Old Colony Museum – on Tonawanda Creek Road to Prospect Street in Lockport. From Lockport, the trail connects with existing portions of the scenic recreational path. Bids are expected to go out next spring and will be due in July 2013 with construction likely to start in September 2013. The new section is scheduled to open by the fall of 2014. READ MORE.

PEDAL POWERS - If you happen to be near the Erie Canal today, keep on the lookout. More than 500 cyclists from 36 states will be dropping their automobiles for a one-week ride along the canal, with a stopover likely around 9 a.m. at Niawanda Park in the City of Tonawanda. The group will launch the ride from Buffalo an hour earlier before making their way through Lockport and over to Amherst, with their sights on the July 15 finish line in Albany. It's the 14th year for "Cycling the Erie Canal," which Robin Dropkin, executive director of Parks and Trails New York, said has transformed from a "somewhat of a ragtag operation" of 60 riders, into a burgeoning example of how the waterway can draw interest beyond the boundaries of New York state. READ MORE.

CUOMO ASSOCIATES TO PROMOTE STATE DURING CANAL BIKE RIDE - If you notice a blue-and-white shirt among the sea of canal-side cyclists next week, you might have just spotted a top state official. Sixteen members of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s cabinet and executive staff will join more than 500 participants in an annual bike ride along the Erie Canal, beginning in Buffalo on Sunday. Cuomo staffers on the 14th-annual eight-day trek aren’t riding solely for exercise. They plan to announce upcoming economic development initiatives in communities along the way. READ MORE.

CANALWAY RIDERS ENJOY LOCAL SITES - The first leg of the Cycling the Erie Canal bike tour brought more than 500 riders through canal communities in Erie and Niagara County before reaching a “tent city” that grew outside of Medina’s middle school. The annual bike tour brings a caravan of cyclists from Buffalo to Albany over eight-days of riding and stops for nourishment and educational recreation. Sunday’s 47-mile leg began in the Queen City but included stops for riders to grab a bite to eat and learn about local history. he first day’s travel brought riders to the Amherst Museum, on a tour of the canal in Lockport and a trip to the Medina Railroad Museum in addition to the peaceful towpath trail. READ MORE.

GENERAL PRESS

PARKS ORGANIZATION HOLDING PHOTO CONTEST- Parks & Trails New York, a statewide advocacy and education organization, is holding an “I Love My Park Because” photo contest to raise awareness about the importance of public parks. New York residents are invited to be photographed in their favorite park, holding a sign describing or illustrating why they like the park. Photo entries should be submitted in digital format along with contact information and the name of the park by Aug. 31 to ilovemypark@ptny.org Prizes, such as camping gear, will be awarded for the best overall photo and most creative photo, as well as to one winner in a random drawing from all entrants.

A TRAIL USER? THEN COUNT YOURSELF IN - Do you use trails in New York state? If so, state parks officials want to count you as they tally numbers for an upcoming project. The 2012 New York State Trail User Count is being launched by the advocacy group Parks & Trails New York, the New York State Trails Council and the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The groups said New York state includes hundreds of miles of popular trails for walkers, joggers and cyclists, but little data exist in terms of actual numbers of trail users.

MAY 2012

VOLUNTEERS PITCH IN FOR 'I LOVE MY PARK DAY' AT MAX V. SHAUL STATE PARK - Max V. Shaul State Park is a little known gem in Schoharie County and on May 5, more than 30 volunteers turned out to cleanup and bring improvements and beautification to the park as part of the first annual I Love My Park Day in New York State. I Love My Park Day was created by Parks and Trails New York in partnership with the New York State Office or Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation as a way to improve and enhance the many parks and historic sites across the state and bring visibility to the entire park system and its needs. READ MORE.

CLEAN-UP ON THE AQUEDUCT TRAIL - The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail in Cortlandt is looking a little more neat, thanks to some helping hands. According to organizers, the clean-up was a success. “More than 30 volunteers worked for five hours at the event, sponsored by Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct, with Parks & Trails NY and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Volunteers uprooted enough invasive plant species to fill 21 large trash bags, gathered a truckload of trash and cut vines to save numerous trees from strangulation. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS WHO 'LOVE'PARKS TURN OUT FOR CLEANUP - Shrinking budgets and staffs are creating a need for volunteers at local parks to help spruce things up before the busy summer season. At the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center on Wellesley Island, volunteers helped clean up the center and park, all part of the state's "I Love My Park Day.""It is a program that we've been doing for many of years and now it's a statewide initiative, " said the center's Kimbrie Cullen. READ MORE.

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JOHN BROWN DAY DRAWS BIG CROWD - A relative of abolitionist Frederick Douglass delivered the keynote address at this year's John Brown Day celebration. Kenneth Morris Jr., Douglass's great-great-great-grandson, gave his speech under blue skies Saturday afternoon at the John Brown Farm state historic site. The event coincided with I Love My Park Day, a statewide celebration of parks and historic sites hosted by the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. More than 100 people turned out for the celebration. READ MORE.

GREEN UP 2012 DAY BRINGS WORKERS, COMMUNITY ACTION - Hundreds of Green Up Day volunteers poured over area roadways Saturday on the hunt for errant litter, during the one weekend of the year when it's good to see bags of trash lining the streets. More than 400 individuals volunteered in the town of Bennington alone, joining many more in surrounding communities and marking the 42nd annual statewide cleanup effort -- the first of its kind in the United States. This year, a host of additional outdoor, environmentally themed events also coincided in Vermont and neighboring New York. READ MORE.

GOVERNOR CUOMO LENDS A HAND AT FDR PARK CLEANUP (with video) - Dozens of volunteers descended upon Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park on Saturday morning for a massive cleanup project, including the man who funded it. Across the state thousands of volunteers participated in cleanup and beautification events at more than 35 state parks and historic sites in the first I Love My Park Day, created by Gov. Andrew Cuomo. READ MORE.

LOVE YOUR PARKS WITH SOME SPRUCING UP - People throughout New York will turn out Saturday to show how much they love their parks and trails, and the Catharine Valley Trail will be part of that promotion. Parks & Trails New York, in partnership with the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, is sponsoring the inaugural "I Love My Park Day" on Saturday. Volunteers from every region of New York will participate in efforts to beautify, improve and restore state parks, trails and historic sites. READ MORE.

NEW YORKERS VOLUNTEER AT STATE PARKS AS PART OF FIRST "I LOVE MY PARK DAY" - Hundreds of New Yorkers volunteered at the Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Westchester County, and the Roberto Clemente State Park in the Bronx, as part of the state's first "I Love My Park Day." Across New York State, thousands of volunteers participated in clean-up, beautification and stewardship events at more than 35 state parks and historic sites. "New York State's parks system is one of the most elaborate, developed in the nation and a treasured asset for our state. I am thrilled that hundreds of New Yorkers have taken advantage of 'I Love My Parks Day,' with families and individuals across the state coming out to help get our parks ready for summer," Governor Andrew Cuomo said. "With today's launch, 'I Love My Parks Day' will hopefully become a New York State tradition for New Yorkers to build community, have some fun, get to know their neighbors a little bit better, all while helping clean up our parks." READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS HELP CLEAN UP STATE PARKS - Volunteers spruced up a section of Rockland Lake State Park on Saturday as part of the first-ever I Love My Park Day, a statewide effort to connect people and parks throughout New York. Marianne Burkhardt of Pearl River was among those who donned gloves and grabbed a shovel and rake to clear the trail that runs around the park’s Nature Center. “It’s always like a little bit of a respite when you come,” Burkhardt said. “It’s nice to give back to a place that’s given some good stuff.” READ MORE.

CUOMO AND HIS CABINET PITCH N TO CLEAN UP STATE PARKS ACROSS NEW YORK - Gov. Andrew Cuomo and members of his cabinet and senior staff volunteered alongside New Yorkers on Saturday to celebrate the state's first "I Love My Park Day" launched by the governor. According to the Governor's Office, volunteers across the state participated in "clean-up, beautification and stewardship" events at more than 35 state parks and historic sites. Cuomo joined volunteers at the Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Westchester County and the Roberto Clemente State Park in the Bronx. READ MORE.

HERKIMER HOME HONORS 'I LOVE MY PARK DAY' - Friends of the Herkimer Home State Historic Site honored the first ever, “I love My Park Day.” The state wide event was recently proclaimed by Governor Andrew Cuomo as May 5, the official “I love My Park Day,” which is organized by Parks & Trails New York in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and local friends groups to help improve and enhance New York’s parks and historic sites. Director of the Herkimer Home State Historic Site, Karen Sheckells said, Friends and volunteers are here cleaning up the historic site. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS TURN OUT AT HIGLEY FLOW STATE PARK FOR 'I LOVE MY PARK DAY' - The turnout was good for the I Love My Park Day Saturday at Higley Flow State Park. Friends’ groups for parks across the state participated in the day. The group picture shows Park Supervisor Henry Sieg giving directions for the day, which consisted a variety of mostly small chores such as clearing debris from the nature trails.

STATE HOSTS ' I LOVE MY PARK DAY' - The guests of honor failed to make an appearance, but birds chirped and a long black snake slithered by when volunteers spent part of Saturday (May 5) at the Ann O’Dell Butterfly Garden at Fahnestock State Park. Wielding trowels, shovels, shears, weed diggers, wheelbarrows, and other implements, about two dozen participants turned out at the garden, located behind Hubbard Lodge about a quarter mile north of the intersection of Route 9 and Route 301. The event occurred on “I Love My Park Day,” a statewide observance sponsored by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. (Gov. Andrew Cuomo, spent part of the day visiting Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, off the Taconic State Parkway to the southeast.) READ MORE.

I LOVE MY PARK DAY - An estimated 100 volunteers took part in I Love My Park Day, which was held May 5 at Allegany State Park. Projects included cleaning and restoring the Sweet Water Spring and cleaning litter in the Red House Area. Also included in the volunteer effort were several dozen members of the Christian Youth Corps, which participates in an annual service day at the park. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS REVAMP WELLESLEY ISLAND STATE PARK - With all of the maintenance involved, cleaning up a state park can take a whole summer’s worth of work. But when enough people pitch in, the work can be done in a day. Doing just that, more than 50 volunteers showed up Saturday morning at the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center at Wellesley Island State Park to pick up trash, rake leaves, paint signs and walking bridges, weed flowerbeds and stack firewood. It was the first of what park officials hope will be an annual “I Love My Park Day” cleanup. READ MORE.

PHOTOS: VOLUNTEERS CLEAN UP FDR PARKS, EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS - During the first-ever "I Love My Parks Day" event in Yorktown this weekend even Gov. Andrew Cuomo showed up to help build a picnic table at F.D.R. State Park. There were at least 50 brand new picnic tables or more constructed on Saturday including one Gov. Cuomo helped build. He was at the state park for approximately 18 minutes, according to Dave Rocco who chaired the cleanup effort. READ MORE.

LOCAL PARKS TO TAKE PART IN I LOVE MY PARK DAY - I Love My Park Day is a new statewide event organized by Parks & Trails New York to help improve New York’s parks and historic sites. The day will take place on Saturday, May 5. Volunteers will participate in cleaning up park lands and beaches, planting trees and gardens, restoring trails and wildlife habitat, removing invasive species and working on various site improvement projects. Local parks participating in the day are Grafton Lakes State Park, Grant Cottage State Historic Site, John Boyd Thacher and Thompson Lake State Parks, Mine Kill and Max V. Shaul State Parks, Saratoga Spa State Park, and Schodack Island State Park. Click here to learn more about individual park events.

I LOVE MY PARK DAY - The Empire State's landscape is made up of more than 200 state parks and historic sites. As we transition from spring to summer, why not venture outside and enjoy them? This Saturday, May 5, you're invited to roll up your sleeves, volunteer at your favorite state park and participate in New York's "I Love My Park Day."

I LOVE MY PARK DAY - Volunteers are expected to gather at more than 35 state parks today, in an effort to clean up and promote parks throughout New York. As part of "I Love My Park Day," volunteers will help with scraping, painting and landscaping to get parks ready for the summer season. Several parks in Western New York are taking part, including Knox Farm Start Park, Evangola State Park, and Allegany State Park. Niagara County Parks, Wilson-Tuscarora State Park and Golden Hill State Park are taking part in the effort, along with Midway Start Park in Chautauqua County. Park managers at Midway State Park say volunteers should dress accordingly, bring gloves, pack a lunch and bring their own beverages. READ MORE.

ASSEMBLY MEMBER CAHILL LOVES NEW YORK PARKS - Urges Volunteers to Sign Up for I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska State Park Preserve on Saturday, May 5 - Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D- Ulster, Dutchess) announced today that this Saturday, May 5, marks the first ever I Love My Park Day, which aims to improve and enhance New York’s parks and historic sites through community service. The statewide event is being organized by Parks & Trails New York. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is accepting volunteers to assist in the clean up and beautification of the grounds. READ MORE.

CUOMO TO JOIN VOLUNTEERS FOR NY PARKS CLEAN-UP DAY - Volunteers are expected to gather at more than 35 state parks today, in an effort to clean up and promote parks throughout New York. As part of "I Love My Park Day," volunteers will help with scraping, painting and landscaping to get parks ready for the summer season. Several parks in Western New York are taking part, including Knox Farm Start Park, Evangola State Park, and Allegany State Park. Niagara County Parks, Wilson-Tuscarora State Park and Golden Hill State Park are taking part in the effort, along with Midway Start Park in Chautauqua County. Park managers at Midway State Park say volunteers should dress accordingly, bring gloves, pack a lunch and bring their own beverages. READ MORE.

LETCHWORTH STATE PARK CLEANUP PLANNED FOR SATURDAY - Mustard weed is relatively common in the park. It’s easy to identify and remove. And that’s good, because the plant’s an invasive species crowding out the native greenery. Fans of the park are invited to help remove the weeds Saturday morning. They can also rake leaves, or clear underbrush from the old Genesee Valley Canal locks — easy ways to lend a hand. “‘I Love My Park Day’ is at Letchworth this Saturday,” said Park Manager Roland Beck. “Registration and all that is at 8 a.m. at Trailside Lodge. We’ll get people registered and things like that, tell them what we’ve got planned for the day, and they can pick a project two work on.” READ MORE.

LOVE YOUR PARKS WITH SOME SPRUCING UP  - People throughout New York will turn out Saturday to show how much they love their parks and trails, and the Catharine Valley Trail will be part of that promotion. Parks & Trails New York, in partnership with the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, is sponsoring the inaugural "I Love My Park Day" on Saturday. READ MORE.

I LOVE MY PARK DAY CALLING FOR VOLUNTEERS - The first-ever I Love My Park Day will take place this Saturday, when volunteers across the state will be called upon to help beautify parks and historic sites. “New York state is home to over 213 magnificent state parks and historic sites. Millions of New Yorkers visit their parks every year for camping, recreation, relaxation, or simply to connect with nature or explore our history,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS DEDICATE 'I LOVE MY PARK DAY' TO CLEAN UP STAET SITES SATURDAY - The state and an Albany-based advocacy group will team up for the first-ever “I Love My Park Day,” a volunteer effort to clean up and promote New York’s parks. The cleanup day will take place Saturday at more than 35 parks and historic sites statewide, according to Parks & Trails New York, a nonprofit group. Gov. Andrew Cuomo will be participating, according to his office. READ MORE.

STATE, NON PROFIT TEAM UP FOR I LOVE MY PARK DAY - The state and an Albany-based advocacy group will team up for the first-ever “I Love My Park Day,” a volunteer effort to clean up and promote New York’s parks.The clean-up day will take place Saturday at more than 35 parks and historic sites statewide, according to Parks & Trails New York, a non-profit group. Gov. Andrew Cuomo will be participating, according to his office. Parks & Trails and the state Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation are organizing the effort. READ MORE.

I LOVE MY PARK DAY SET FOR SATURDAY - There’s a whole new way to show appreciation for your local state park in an initiative called I Love My Park Day, organized by a tag-team effort from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and Parks & Trails New York. Online registration for the volunteer event Saturday is now available for more than 30 parks and historic sites, including Allegany State Park. READ MORE.

STATE, NON PROFIT TEAM UP FOR I LOVE MY PARK DAY - The state parks department and an Albany-based advocacy group will team up for the first-ever “I Love My Park Day,” a volunteer effort to clean up and promote the state’s parks. The clean-up day will take place this Saturday, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo will be participating, according to his office. (It wasn’t revealed which park(s) Cuomo would appear at.) The effort is being organized by the state and Parks & Trails New York.

CANANDAIGUA, VICTOR PREPARE OF "I LOVE MY PARKS DAY" - Saturday will be a day for park lovers. May 5 will be the first “I Love My Parks Day” in New York state. The goal is to get volunteers out to state parks to clean up, plant trees, maintain gardens, restore trails and remove invasive plants. Though the event is organized by Parks & Trails New York, it’s not just state parks that are getting in on the action. Town of Canandaigua residents will also be up bright and early to beautify a local park. Volunteers will be at Blue Heron Park — off of Route 332 — from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. READ MORE.

APRIL 2012

I LOVE MY PARK COMING MAY 5 - There’s a whole new way to show appreciation for your local state park in a initiative called “I Love My Park Day” organized by a tag team effort from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and Parks & Trails New York. Online registration for the volunteer event on May 5 is now available for more than 30 parks and historic sites, including Allegany State Park. READ MORE.

NYS I LOVE MY PARK DAY ALSO ON LI - SATURDAY, MAY 5, 2012 - On Saturday, May 5, 2012, New Yorkers can show their appreciation for their state parks and historic sites by volunteering to help maintain the beauty of New York State's green spaces. The even was organized by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) together with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and local groups. Volunteers are needed to help with cleaning up, improving and beautifying parks and other venues across New York State. On Long Island, you can participate at the following places: READ MORE.

DO YOUR PART TO HELP BEAUTIFY TREASURED STATE PARKS -New York’s elected officials are making some long-overdue investments in our aging state parks system. Now those of us who use that system have a great chance to do our part, by putting a days’ worth of muscle into helping out at the parks we love.On Saturday, May 5, volunteers from across the state will participate in cleanup, improvement and beautification events at New York state parks and historic sites as part of the first-ever I Love My Park Day. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEER MAY 5 AT YOUR LOCAL STATE PARK

ROBIN DROPKIN: NEW YORKERS CAN HELP BEAUTIFY PARKS ON SATURDAY - New York’s elected officials are making some long-overdue investments in our aging state parks system. Now those of us who use that system have a chance to do our part, by putting a day’s worth of muscle into helping out at the parks we love. On Saturday, volunteers from across the state will participate in cleanup, improvement and beautification events at New York State parks and historic sites as part of the first-ever I Love My Park Day. We’ll celebrate New York’s park system by pitching in to clean up park lands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and make other site improvement. READ MORE.

VOLUNTEERS MOBILIZE FOR PARK CLEANUPS

ANNUAL CANAL CLEAN SWEEP (NEWS CLIP) - The annual Canal Clean Sweep event continues today. It started Friday and will run through Sunday. Volunteers are invited to help out the New York State Canal Corporation prepare the canals for the 188th navigation season. There are several clean up events taking place in the area. To find one near you, you can head to the Parks and Trails New York website at ptny.org. VIEW CLIP

CANAL GETS CLEANED FOR EARTH DAY - Volunteers from across the state came together yesterday to celebrate Earth Day, by cleaning up a small part of a New York Landmark. The cleanup is part of the 7th Annual "Canal Clean Sweep Event". Officials say the program is designed to clean parks and trails along the Erie Canal way Trail system statewide. Nearly 1.7 million people use the canal system each season. Volunteers say sprucing up the areas around the canals is a great way to help the environment. Luke Glogowski, Volunteer said, "By making the community better by making it a little bit cleaner and a better place" READ MORE.

NY SEEKING VOLUNTEERS TO HELP CLEAN CANAL SYSTEM - The agency that runs New York's canal system is looking for volunteers to help workers tidy up the waterways and their networks of walking paths ahead of this year's season. The state Canal Corp. says the event is scheduled for the weekend of April 20-22 along the 524-mile-long system. It says more than 100 groups took part in the effort last year. The organization Parks and Trails New York is helping coordinate the project and has information available online. The 188th navigation season is set to open May 1 if the weather allows.

MARCH 2012

RSVP SEEKS CITY, CAMPUS VOLUNTEERS FOR APRIL 21 SHORLINE CLEAN SWEEP - SUNY Oswego’s RSVP is seeking volunteers to remove debris from the river and lake shorelines in Oswego as part of the seventh annual Clean Sweep, 1 to 3 p.m. April 21. RSVP, spearheading the effort to recruit volunteers on behalf of the city of Oswego and SUNY Oswego, urges all city and campus residents, young and old, businesses and school groups, to participate in cleaning up the east and west Oswego River walks and the Lake Ontario shoreline within the city limits. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL GUIDEBOOK NOW AVAILABLE - If you’re interested in travelling across New York, the latest edition of “Cycling the Erie Canal” is now available. The 144-page guidebook, published by Parks and Trails New York, features trail maps and up-to-date listings of bike shops, lodgings and other necessities, while documenting areas to stop and visit. READ MORE.

FEBRUARY 2012

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK AWARDS GRANT TO FRIENDS OF GANTRY PLAZA STATE PARK - The Long Island City based volunteer group, Friends of Gantry Plaza State Park, is a recipient of one of 11 Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) Capacity Building Grants.  These grants, totaling more than $18,000 were awarded recently by the statewide advocacy group Parks & Trails New York to not-for-profit park and trail organizations.  Friends of Gantry Plaza State Park was one of 42 applicants from around New York State.

FALLSBURG RECEIVES $2,200 FOR RAILS TO TRAILS PROGRAM - The Town of Fallsburg received a $2,200 grant from Parks & Trails New York to create a brochure and logo for its Rails to Trails program, Supervisor Steve Vegliante said Wednesday. The town’s Rails to Trails Committee is one of 11 groups sharing $18,000 in technical-assistance grants awarded by the organization. Fallsburg plans to create a brochure to distribute to year-round and seasonal residents. It also plans a new Rails to Trails logo to be designed by local artist Bob Longo.

NATURE CENTER RECEIVES ONE OF 11 PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK AWARDS - Capacity Building Grants totaling more than $18,000 were awarded recently by the statewide advocacy group Parks & Trails New York to 11 not-for-profit park and trail organizations. The groups will use the funds to increase organizational visibility, generate community support, grow membership and attract additional volunteers. The Great Swamp Conservancy, Inc., received $1,500 for printing brochures and newsletters.

MONTAUK CITIZENS GROUP TO REACH OUT TO LATINOS - With a grant from a parks advocacy group, the Concerned Citizens of Montauk will be able to put forth an initiative to diverse membership to the state parks in the area. The group just received a Capacity Building Grant for $750 for Spanish language flyers and letters. The money will also cover Spanish language translators "to moderate three community forums designed to broaden and diversify membership and engage the Latino community in programming for the park," according to the parks department. READ MORE.

JANUARY 2012

FRIENDS OF THE CHEMUNG RIVER WATERSHED AWARDED $2,000 GRANT - Parks and Trails New York has awarded a $2,000 grant to the Friends of the Chemung River Watershed, a group dedicated to encouraging the public to better use, respect and enjoyment of the rivers. READ MORE.

LAND TRUST PANEL GETS GRANT TO DESIGN RAIL TRAIL BROCHURE - The Kingston Land Trust Rail Trail Committee was one of 11 applicants from 40 submissions to receive a capacity building grant from Parks & Trails NY to create a brochure that will serve as a recruitment tool to gain public involvement for the proposed Kingston Point Rail Trail project. READ MORE.

TRAIL IN GREECE GETS HEAVY USE - More than 100,000 walkers, bikers and joggers visited a stretch of the Erie Canalway Trail at Henpeck Park in Greece in 2011, according to a report released Thursday by New York State Canal Corp. and Parks & Trails New York. READ MORE.

DECEMBER 2011

INVESTMENT IN PARKS IS GOOD FOR BUSINESS - To the Editor: Included in this week’s flurry of economic initiatives from the Cuomo administration was some good news for New York’s state park system. The $1 billion Infrastructure Investment Act, to address the state’s aging infrastructure, includes park rehabilitation. While the details are yet to come, Parks & Trails New York applauds the administration and legislative leaders for recognizing the strong connection between economic vitality and outdoor recreational opportunities. READ MORE.

NOVEMBER 2011

TOWN TO GET GRANT FOR ERIE CANAL TRAILS - The town of Montezuma will be getting some professional help with a network of trails it hopes to build to connect the community to the Seneca River and historic Erie Canal sites. The help will come in the form of a non-monetary grant that was announced Monday. The “technical assistance grant” is from Parks & Trails New York, an organization that helps municipalities in the state create networks of trails and green space, said Martin Daley, project director at Parks & Trails New York. The grant will give the town guidance for about a year to accomplish as much of the Montezuma Heritage Park Erie Canal Towpath Trail as possible. READ MORE.

MAY 2013

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK ANNOUNCES 2013 PARKS & TRAIL RECOGNITION AWARD WINNERS – Parks & Trails New York, a statewide parks and trails advocacy organization, announces the winners of its 2013 Park & Trail Recognition Awards.  The awards recognize the leadership, creativity, and donation of time, talent, and materials behind many of New York’s parks and trails. READ MORE.

APRIL 2013

CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL CELEBRATES 15TH ANNIVERSARY - Spots available on 400-mile bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany July 7 - 14, 2013 -The 15th annual Cycling the Erie Canal – an eight-day, 400-mile recreational bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany along the legendary Erie Canal – is scheduled for July 7-14, 2013. Cycling the Erie Canal riders will enjoy the fine scenery and fascinating history of the Erie Canal corridor, a National Heritage Corridor. The bicycle tour passes through historic canal villages and rural countryside.  Along the way, canal historians and local experts will introduce participants to the people, places and things that make the Erie Canal so unique and so important to the history of New York State and the country.  Nearly three-quarters of the ride is off-road, on the mostly-flat and traffic-free Canalway Trail; the rest is on rural roads with good shoulders. READ MORE.

L.L. BEAN BOOTMOBILE TO STOP IN ALBANY TO PROMOT I LOVE MY PARK DAY - The larger-than-life L.L.Bean Bootmobile will make a stop in Albany to encourage New Yorkers to roll up their sleeves for the second annual I Love My Park Day on Saturday, May 4. I Love My Park Day is an exciting statewide event to celebrate and enhance New York’s state parks and historic sites and bring visibility to the entire state park system and its needs. Nearly 4,000 volunteers from across the state will participate in more than 80 cleanup, improvement, and beautification events at more than 70 New York State parks and historic sites. Volunteers will celebrate New York’s park system by cleaning up park lands and beaches, planting trees and gardens, restoring trails and wildlife habitat, removing invasive species, and working on various site improvement projects. READ MORE.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR CYCLING THE HUDSON VALLEY BICYCLE TOUR JULY 30-AUGUST 4 - 200-mile bicycle tour from Albany to NYC features five fabulous bridge crossings - The 9th annual Cycling the Hudson Valley — a six-day, 200-mile recreational bicycle tour from Albany to New York City — is scheduled for July 30 to August 4, 2013. Cycling the Hudson Valley participants will pedal their way through one of the most picturesque river valleys in the world.  The Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, Olana State Historic Site, and West Point are just a few of the many interesting stops along the way.  Rich in history, culture, wineries, and gourmet cuisine, the Hudson Valley offers fantastic bicycling.  The tour, which includes five panoramic bridge crossings, will ride along designated bike routes, scenic roads, and off-road trails, including the renowned Manhattan Waterfront Greenway along the west side of Manhattan. Last year’s Cycling the Hudson Valley drew riders from 25 states and Canada. READ MORE.

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK SELECTS PARTICIPANTS FOR NEW TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM - The statewide advocacy group Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) today announced the selection of two New York State Park and Historic Site Friends organizations to receive targeted technical assistance.  The NYS Park Friends Technical Assistance Program (TAP) will help support Friends organizations by working closely with the groups to build their capacity and, therefore, strengthen the community of park supporters and enhance stewardship of the state park system. Friends organizations are essential to the stewardship and promotion of the New York State park system. These nonprofit organizations—oftentimes made up entirely of volunteers—clear trails, paint buildings, build kiosks, leading interpretive programs, and raise significant money for capital projects. READ MORE.

MARCH 2013

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK COMMENDS STATE LEADERS FOR INVESTMENT IN PARKS AND ENVIRONMENT IN FINAL STATE BUDGET - The state budget for FY2013-2014, agreed to by state lawmakers this week, includes important investments in state parks infrastructure and environmental programs that will help grow the economy, better protect communities from the impacts of climate change, and enhance the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Parks & Trails New York applauds the Governor and legislative leaders for making these important investments and for their continued commitment to state parks and critical environmental programs. READ MORE.

FEBRUARY 2013

JANUARY 2013

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR 2013 PARK & TRAIL RECOGNITION AWARDS - Parks & Trails New York, a statewide parks and trails advocacy organization, is seeking nominations for its 2013 Park & Trail Recognition Awards.  The awards recognize the leadership, creativity, and donation of time, talent, and materials behind many of New York’s parks and trails. READ MORE

REPORT CITES SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS IN “CLOSING THE GAPS” IN ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL - Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) and the Canalway Trails Association New York (CTANY) have released their third annual report, Closing the Gaps: A Progress Report on the Erie Canalway Trail 2012. PTNY and CTANY note that 2012 was a year of many accomplishments in efforts to close the remaining 84 miles of gaps in the 361-mile trail that extends from Buffalo to Albany: Seven miles of trail are under construction - six miles between Newark and Lyons and one mile in the City of Little Falls - with completion slated for 2013. READ MORE.

DECEMBER 2012

OCTOBER 2012

NEW TRANSPORTATION LAW GOES INTO EFFECT OCTOBER 1ST - GROUPS URGE NEW YORK STATE TO INVEST IN BIKING & WALKING - Close to 100 organizations—including health, aging, transportation, smart growth and environmental groups from across the state—recently united to urge Governor Cuomo and NYS Department of Transportation officials to fully fund biking and walking projects under the new federal transportation law, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). READ MORE.

SEPTEMBER 2012

BICYCLISTS BRING BUSINESS! Canalway Trail Tourism for your downtown Free Roundtable and Bikearound in Albion October 10 and 11 - The New York State Canal Corporation and Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor are partnering with Parks & Trails New York to present a series of events aimed at helping Canalway Trail communities take advantage of the growing bicycle tourist market.  Events include an evening roundtable on Wednesday, October 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Albion’s Hoag Library, 134 South Main Street, and a bike “visit” to Albion beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 11.

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK OFFERS GRANTS FOR PARK AND TRAIL GROPUS - GRANTS AIM TO BOOST ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY -  Parks & Trails New York is launching the next round of its Growing the Grassroots Capacity Building Grants for park and trail groups in New York State.  The grants, of up to $3,000, will strengthen not-for-profit organizations that are working to build and protect parks and trails in communities across the state. READ MORE.

JULY 2012

150 CYCLISTS TAKE SIX-DAY TOUR THROUGH THE HUDSON VALLEY—8th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal tour starts July 31 in Albany— Some 150 bicyclists from 25 states and Canada are participating in the 8th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal event, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization.  The 200-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, August 5 in New York City. “The Great Hudson Valley Pedal is bound to be a fun and exciting event,” says Robin Dropkin, Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York. “We have riders spanning ages 6 to 80, plus many volunteers in communities along the route ready to welcome riders and help them discover what makes the Hudson Valley region so unique.” READ MORE.

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK STUDIES ECONO9MIC IMPACT OF ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL - Visitors to the Erie Canalway Trail this summer may encounter students wanting to know more about their visit as part of a an economic impact study being conducted by the statewide not-for-profit advocacy group, Parks & Trails New York (PTNY).  Paul Scipione, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Business and Director of the Survey/Research Center at SUNY Geneseo is leading the eight-month effort. READ MORE.

“I LOVE MY PARK BECAUSE” PHOTO CONTEST LAUNCHES - Parks & Trails New York gives New Yorkers new way to support parks and win prizes - New Yorkers love their parks, and Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) is giving New Yorkers more ways to show it with the launching of the “I Love My Park Because” photo contest that will run through August 31, 2012. On I Love My Park Day this past May, volunteers from around the state gave back to the parks and historic sites they love by rolling up their sleeves and pitching in with needed projects. This summer, New Yorkers can get creative and express their love for parks through a photo. READ MORE.

MAY 2012

GET OUT ON A TRAIL: CELEBRATE NATIONAL TRAIL DAY JUNE 2 -
Activities planned across the state - In celebration of the 20th annual National Trails Day (NTD), Parks & Trails New York urges everyone to spend some time on one of the state’s more than 16,000 miles of trail on Saturday, June 2. New Yorkers can enjoy hikes, bike and horse rides, trail maintenance, paddle trips, trail dedication ceremonies, and other activities across the state. Since 1993, NTD has inspired people to enjoy America’s 200,000 miles of trails on the first Saturday in June. READ MORE.

SPOTS AVAILABLE ON THE 14TH ANNUAL CROSS-STATE BICYCLE TOUR ALONG ERIE CANAL – The 14th annual cross-state bicycle tour along the Erie Canal – Cycling the Erie Canal – is scheduled for July 8-15, 2012.  Cycling the Erie Canal is an eight-day, 400-mile recreational bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany along the legendary Erie Canal

APRIL 2012

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK APPLAUDS PROJECTS PLANNED AT STATE PARKS - Infrastructure Projects Will Create Jobs and Boost Parks Legacy - Parks & Trails New York today reacted enthusiastically to the release of the list of infrastructure projects planned at state parks included as part of the new New York Works Fund.READ MORE.

MARCH 2012

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK LAUDS GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE FOR INVESTMENT IN NEW YORK STATE PARK SYSTEM - $89 million Will Address Critical Infrastructure Needs and Create Jobs – Parks & Trails New York today applauds the Governor and New York State Legislature for including critical funding for infrastructure improvements at New York’s state parks and historic sites in the final enacted state budget. This represents the single largest infusion in history of capital dollars for New York’s parks. READ MORE.

NEW EDITION OF POPULAR ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL GUIDEBOOK NOW AVAILABLE --Features more trail sections, updated info -- 42 easy-to-read, full-color maps show trail route, attractions and services - The outstanding bicycling and sightseeing waiting for visitors along the legendary Erie Canal is highlighted in the newly revised edition of Cycling the Erie Canal: A guide to 400 miles of adventure and history along the Erie Canalway Trail.  The book, which features new sections of trail and up-to-date listings of lodging, bike shops, and other services, is published by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the statewide non-profit parks and trails advocacy organization. READ MORE.

JANUARY 2012

DECEMBER 2011

NOVEMBER 2011

SEPTEMBER 2011

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK OFFERS GRANTS FOR PARK AND TRAIL GROUPS - Grants aim to boost organizational capacity - Parks & Trails New York is launching the next round of its Capacity Building Grants for park and trail groups in New York State. The grants, of up to $3,000, will strengthen not-for-profit organizations that are working to build and protect parks and trails in communities across the state. READ MORE.

ASSISTANCE WITH TRAIL DEVELOPMENT AVAILABLE TO NYS COMMUNITIES - Application deadline October 12- Parks & Trails New York, a statewide parks and trails advocacy organization, is offering assistance to communities wishing to develop a new multi-use trail or increase usage of an existing trail as part of its Healthy Trails, Healthy People Program. Communities will receive help with technical issues, planning, public outreach, grant writing, fundraising, programming, organizational development and other activities critical to the long-term success of trail projects. READ MORE.

AUGUST 2011

GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL - DAYS 4-6: HYDE PARK TO GARRISON TO NYACK TO NYC - 150 cyclists take six-day tour through Hudson Valley—Walkway Over the Hudson highlight of 7th annual. Some 150 bicyclists from 24 states and Canada are participating in the 7th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal event, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization. The 200-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, August 21 in New York City.“The Great Hudson Valley Pedal is bound to be a fun and exciting event.” READ MORE.

GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL - DAYS 1-3: ALBANY TO HUDSON TO HYDE PARK - 7th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal tour starts August 16 in Albany. Some 150 bicyclists from 25 states and Canada are participating in the 7th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal event, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization.  The 200-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, August 21 in New York City. “The Great Hudson Valley Pedal is bound to be a fun and exciting event,” says Robin Dropkin, Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York. “We have riders spanning ages 6 to 80, plus many volunteers in communities along the route ready to welcome riders and help them discover what makes the Hudson Valley region so unique.” READ MORE.

JULY 2011

TRAILS AND GREENWAYS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 23 AND 24 IN ITHACA - Parks & Trails New York and the Finger Lakes Land Trust will host the region’s first-ever trails and greenways conference, Friday, September 23 and Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Cornell University in Ithaca.  The conference, entitled Finger Lakes Trails and Greenways: Connecting communities, promoting health, and strengthening local economies, will examine the important contribution that trails can make to individual health, quality of life and the environmental and economic health of the region. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL ARRIVES IN CAPITAL REGION JUYLY 16 — They started out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars behind.   Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states will be arriving in the Capital Region on Saturday, July 16 as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide non-profit advocacy organization.  The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL ARRIVES IN MOHAWK VALLEY JULY 14 – They started out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars behind.   Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states will be arriving in the Mohawk Valley on Thursday, July 14 as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization.  The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL ARRIVES IN SENECA FALLS JULY 13 - They started out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars behind. Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states will be arriving in Seneca Falls on Tuesday, July 12 as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-forprofit organization. The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL TOUR ARRIVES IN ROCHESTER JULY 11 - They started out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars behind.   Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states will be arriving in Rochester on Monday, July 11 as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization.  The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL ARRIVES IN MEDINA JULY 10 – They started out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars and expensive gas behind.   Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states will be arriving in Medina that evening as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization.  The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

500 CYCLISTS TAKE WEEK-LONG VACATION ALONG ERIE CANAL -13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour starts July 10 in Buffalo – They start out in Buffalo on Sunday, July 10, leaving their cars behind. Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states are participating in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, a statewide not-for-profit organization. The 400-mile bicycle tour ends on Sunday, July 17 in Albany. READ MORE.

APRIL 2011

SPECTACULAR RAIL AND CANAL TRAILS FOR SPRING BIRDING - Visiting a rail or canal trail is a wonderful way to stretch your legs after a long, cold winter. With scores of beautiful birds available for viewing during spring migration, bird watching is a great reason to get moving. Birding is one of the most popular forms of recreation in the country, with one in five people enjoying the activity. With this in mind, Parks & Trails New York has developed a list of trails especially good for birding. READ MORE.

MARCH 2011

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL BICYCLE TOUR 200-MILE BICYCLE TOUR FROM ALBANY TO NYC SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 16-21, 2011– The 7th annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal—a six-day, 200-mile recreational bicycle tour from Albany to New York City—is scheduled for August 16-21, 2011. Great Hudson Valley Pedal participants will pedal their way through one of the most picturesque river valleys in the world. The Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, Olana State Historic Site, and West Point are just a few of the many interesting stops along the way. READ MORE.

FEBRUARY 2011

DATES SET FOR 13TH ANNUAL CROSS-STATE BICYCLE TOUR ALONG ERIE CANAL- 400-mile bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany - July 10-17, 2011 - The 13th annual cross-state bicycle tour along the Erie Canal – Cycling the Erie Canal – is scheduled for July 10-17, 2011.  Cycling the Erie Canal is an eight-day, 400-mile, recreational bicycle tour from Buffalo to Albany along the legendary Erie Canal. READ MORE.

JANUARY 2011

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK PRAISES GOVERNOR CUOMO'S SELECTION FOR PARKS COMMISSIONER - Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) would like to commend Governor Cuomo on his outstanding selection for Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. We are pleased that Governor Cuomo selected a passionate and well-respected parks and open space professional to head the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.  We congratulate Rose Harvey and look forward to working with her in the years ahead to sustain and support our magnificent parks and historic sites,” said Robin Dropkin, Executive Director of PTNY. 

SEVEN TRAILS FOR WINTER WONDER - Parks & Trails New York introduces its Seven Trails for Winter Wonder – trails which will reinvigorate the body and stimulate the senses of winter enthusiasts.  Exercising during the winter can be difficult; cold and snowy weather conditions seem to limit outdoor opportunities. 

STATE PARKS CLOSING WHILE PARKS' POPULARITY SOARS - Keeping all parks open critical to economic turnaround of NYS. In a strange disconnect, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) announced last week that attendance at state parks and historic sites was up one million over the previous year while, at the same time, parks and historic sites have been closing

EIGHT CAPACITY BUILDING GRANTS AWARDED TO STRENGTHEN PARK AND TRAIL GROUPS AROUND THE STATE - Parks & Trails New York awarded eight capacity building grants to not-for-profit park and trail organizations to aid them in their efforts to increase organizational visibility and generate community support, grow membership, and attract additional volunteers. Made possible by a generous private donor, Parks & Trails New York’s capacity building grants are designed to strengthen the state’s not-for-profit park and trail organizations, enabling them to leverage more private funding and marshal more volunteer power to better fill the gaps in government spending.

DECEMBER 2010

PARKS ADVOCACY GROUPS RELEASE PROPOSAL TO REVITALIZE UNDERFUNDED STATE PARK SYSTEM - Report suggests steps to restore funding and protect New York state parks. Repeated budget cuts have threatened New York’s unparalleled inventory of state parks, leaving unmet maintenance needs that jeopardize the almost $2 billion in economic activity the facilities provide to local communities, according to a report issued jointly today by the Alliance for New York State Parks and Parks & Trails New York. READ MORE.

NOVEMBER 2010

OCTOBER 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010

J.B. GOOD, Pittsburgh, PA - I live in the Pittsburgh area where we have more than a few miles of excellent rail trails. I am familiar with PTNY through the net and from numerous trips to Niagara Falls (Ontario). The PTNY site is excellent and well organized, as well as the guidebook... I made a three day trip on the canal from Lockport to Syracuse last week. All involved have done a fine job developing and promoting the trail. Maybe I will do the Eastern side of the Canal sometime. Thanks again for the effort of the staff at PTNY! -

JANUARY 2009

BUILD IT AND THEY WILL BIKE - Bicycling may still not be taken seriously by many motorists, but, fortunately, public officials are starting to — and at the highest levels. The Congressional Bicycle Caucus is now 180 strong, with most of its members commuting to work in the U.S. Capitol on their human-powered machines.

NOVEMBER2008

ASSISTING STATE PARKS -PRIVATE FUNDING WILL HELP ADVANCE PROJECTS - New York has many wonderful state parks that provide sites for recreation and appreciation of natural beauty.

TRAILS CONNECT WITH NATURE - Recent Times Union articles have addressed ideas for creating recreational trails in our region. In Rensselaer County, efforts to develop a trail network began two years ago and are showing significant progress.