MAY 2012

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 WIHT 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.

OCTOBER 2011

PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK OFFERS GRANTS FOR PARK AND TRAIL GROUPS - 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.

AUGUST 2011

NY STATE-OWNED REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELD PARK BEING EYES AS POSSIBLE NATIONAL PARK - When the force of 1,200 British redcoats, loyalists and American Indians finally made a stand against the 5,000-strong Continental Army pushing its way into Iroquois country in the summer of 1779, the two sides fought a running battle along the Chemung River Valley near present-day Elmira. Today, a state park occupies the hill where much of the fighting occurred on Aug. 29, 1779. But Newtown Battlefield State Park only covers some 300 acres of the rolling, wooded landscape where the two forces fought, and there's a proposal in Congress to look into whether neighboring land needs to be protected for its historical significance and possibly wrapped into a new national park. READ MORE.

ITHACA CONFERENCE TO PUSH TRAILS AS ATTRACTIONS, AMENITIES - 2-DAY EVENT TO FEATURE SPEAKERS, FIELD VISITS - The trail registry book at Lick Brook recently had entries made by groups from Hamilton, Ontario, Canastota, Britain and Israel. The combination, it occurred to Finger Lakes Land Trust Executive Director Andy Zepp, shows the appeal and potential of trails in the region. Zepp will talk more about trails' attraction and potential at the Finger Lakes Trails and Greenways Conference Sept. 23 and 24 at Cornell University. READ MORE.

GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL TO SPEND 2 NIGHTS IN HYDE PARKS, TOUR REGION - A group of 150 bicyclists and 25 volunteers from 23 states will be riding through the area today through Thursday as part of the Great Hudson Valley Pedal, which begins in Albany today and finishes almost 200 miles away in New York City on Sunday. "In the Hudson Valley there are so many interesting sites and interesting cultural centers," said Robin Dropkin, executive director of Parks and Trails New York, the nonprofit group that organizes the annual tour. READ MORE.

JULY 2011

CTEC 2011 MEDIA COVERAGE:

GCASA COUNSELOR COMPLETES 400-MILE BICYCLE TRIP — Jim Morasco can now check another item off of his bucket list. The GCASA counselor and associate pastor just completed an eight-day bicycle trip along the Erie Canal. He logged 400 miles.“The first 60 miles was tough. I didn’t know what to expect. There were more hills than I thought there’d be,” he said Thursday. READ MORE.

- SLIDESHOW

BIKE TOUR KICKS OFF - More than 500 cyclists are participating in the 13th annual “Cycling the Erie Canal,” event a 400-mile bicycling tour that kicked of Sunday and continues through July 17. The eight-day recreational bicycling tour from Buffalo to Albany highlights the beauty, histoRy, culture and recreational appeal of the canal system and the Canalway Trail as a prime tourism destination in New York state. READ MORE.

Cycling the Erie Canal tour visits Rotary Park – Bicyclists from around the country and beyond traveled at their leisure throughout the Mohawk Valley on Thursday and Friday as part of their continuing tour of the Erie Canal. Being able to go at her own pace is what Joan Blaustein said she enjoys about the Cycling the Erie Canal tour. READ MORE.

BICYCLISTS TRAVELING ERIE CANAL ARRIVE IN VALLEY ON JUNE 14 - Some 500 bicyclists from 35 states and three foreign countries will arrive in the Mohawk Valley on July 14 as participants in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour. The 400-mile bicycle tour started in Buffalo on July 10 and will end in Albany on July 17. The Mohawk Valley schedule includes an overnight stay on July 14 at Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome. On Friday, July 115, bicyclists will ride from Rome to Canajoharie, where they will stay overnight at Canajoharie High School. Friday’s schedule also includes a morning rest stop from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Schuyler Town Hall and an afternoon rest stop from 12 to 5 p.m. at Rotary Park in Little Falls. READ MORE.

CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL PARTICIPANTS TO STOP IN LITTLE FALLS – More than 500 cyclists from 35 states are expected to participate in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal, a 400-mile bicycling tour scheduled for July 10 through July 17. The eight-day recreational tour from Buffalo to Albany will highlight the beauty, history, culture and recreational appeal of the canal system and the Canalway Trail as a tourism destination.

ALL ALONG THE ERIE – About 500 people traversing upstate New York on bikes will pass through Cayuga County this week as part of a 400-mile trek. The 13th Cycling the Erie Canal tour kicked off on Sunday in Buffalo and will wrap up on July 17 in Albany. The group of bicyclers participating in the ride will be in Seneca Falls today and will rest in Port Byron Wednesday morning. The tour then rolls through Syracuse and on to Rome, Schenectady and through the Mohawk Valley. READ MORE.

CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL TOUR HEADING TO MADISON COUNTY ROME - More than 500 bicyclists will roll through Madison County as part of their eight-day tour of the Erie Canal. The group departed from Buffalo on Sunday for the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour, organized by Parks and Trails New York, a statewide non-profit advocacy organization. Between 8 a.m. and noon, the bicyclists are scheduled to travel from Syracuse to make morning rest stops at the Chittenango Landing Boat Museum and the Canastota Canal Town Museum. READ MORE.

CYCLISTS PASS THROUGH MADISON, ONEIDA COUTNIES ON CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL TOUR - (Video) Riders in the 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour were making the journey for history, family and fitness as they passed through Madison County on Friday. READ MORE.

ROME WELCOMES BICYCLE BOOM – (Video) After pedaling 250 miles, New Hartford resident Tim Nelson is finally back on his home turf, but says he's nowhere near sick of cycling."Everybody's just passionate about bicycling and being out. The trail is just beautiful here in Upstate New York," said Nelson.Nelson was the first of more than 500 bicyclists to make their way to Rome as part of the 13th Annual Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour. Riders make their way from Buffalo to Albany by following the historic canal, pausing to learn about its origins along the way. READ MORE.

HUNDREDS PEDAL INTO ALBANY TO COMPLETE STATEWIDE BIKE TOUR – (Video) "It was kind of my mom's idea for a family vacation," said Shea Weilbaker from Saratoga Springs. Ten-year-old Weilbaker is one of about 500 cyclists who just completed the 13th Annual "Cycling the Erie Canal" Bike Tour. It wasn't Disney World, but he says he's enjoyed the last eight days."The experience of biking 400 miles - it's awesome," said Weilbaker. READ MORE.

HUNDREDS OF CYCLISTS PASS THROUGH MOHAWK VALLEY AS THEY BIKE FROM BUFFALO TO ALBANY – Friday turned out to be a beautiful day for a bike ride, which was good news for the hundreds of cyclists who were passing through the area en route to Albany. Hundreds of bikers enjoyed the summer scenery of the Mohawk Valley as they took part in what is known as the annual Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour. READ MORE.

CYCING TOUR STOPS IN PALMYRA – More than 500 cycling enthusiasts stopped at the Palmyra Village Park today for a rest and refreshments provided by the local Kiawanis Club. The 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour started July 10 and runs through July 17. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL BIKE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS REGION FOR NEW VISITORS – Monday was a hot day. But after biking dozens of miles from Medina, it felt even hotter for Keith Pinder. "I've gone through maybe eight bottles of water today," said Pinder. Pinder, a Toronto man, was one of more than 500 cyclists who stopped in Pittsford on the "Cycling the Erie Canal" bike tour, which is making it's way down the historic waterway to Albany by the weekend. And while some participants are state residents taking the eight-day, 400-mile tour, around 60 percent are from out-of-state, or even out of the country, like Pinder. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL BIKE TOUR STOPPING IN PITTSFORD – Hundreds of cyclists are making their way down the Erie Canal this week, and they'll be stopping in the village of Pittsford today. The "Cycling the Erie Canal" tour is on its thirteenth annual run, with more than 500 participants signed up for the 400-mile trek. The cyclists will be stopping in Pittsford around 2 p.m. at the Schoen Place waterfront, then spend the night at Nazareth College. Tomorrow, they'll head to the village of Palmyra. READ MORE.

BIKE TOUR SHOWCASES STATE'S HERITAGE - More than 500 bicyclists from 36 states and three foreign countries are riding across the state along the Erie Canal this week, as part of a 13th annual bike trip designed to draw attention to upstate New York and its heritage. The riders — ranging in age from 6 to 89, but averaging 50 —set out early Sunday morning from Buffalo’s Nichols School on the 400-mile Cycling the Erie Canal tour. READ MORE.

13TH ANNUAL CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL BICYCLE TOUR TO PASS THROUGH ROCHESTER – More than 500 bicyclists will be passing through Rochester today during the 13th Annual Cycling the Canal bicycle tour. Today is the second leg of the eight-day, 400-mile recreational ride along the historic and scenic Erie This leg of the ride starts in Medina and ends with an overnight stay at Nazareth College. Along the way, participants from 38 states. #END

"CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL" TOUR ARRIVES IN ROCHESTER - 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.

ANNUAL ERIE CANAL BIKE TRIP SET TO START – More than 500 cyclists are ready to ride the old Erie Canal. The 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal Tour, a 400-mile jaunt across the state, begins on Sunday in Buffalo and ends eight days later in Albany. It highlights the beauty, history, culture and recreational appeal of the canal system and the Canalway Trail. Cyclists from 36 states and other countries are expected to take part. Roughly two-thirds of the tour takes place on the completed portion of the Canalway Trail. When complete, the Canalway Trail System will span more than 500 miles and connect numerous cities, towns and villages along the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Oswego and Champlain canals, making it one of the longest multi-use recreational trails in the country. #END

500 CYCLISTS TAKE WEEK-LONG VACATION ALONG ERIE – 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. About three-quarters of the journey is on the off-road Erie Canalway Trail.  When the Trail is finished, it will be the longest statewide trail in the United States. “The 13th annual Cycling the Erie Canal tour is an inexpensive and healthy way to explore the Erie Canal and upstate New York.  Plus it’s fun.  I call it a rolling summer camps for all ages,” says Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Robin Dropkin.  “We have cyclists from over 35 states plus several hundred volunteers in communities along the route ready to welcome riders and help them discover what makes the Erie Canal and upstate New York unique.” #END

'CYCLING THE ERIE CANAL TOUR' BIKE TRIP: JULY 10-17

MORE THAN 500 BIKE RIDERS STOP IN CENTRAL NEW YORK AS THE FOLLOW ERIE CANAL - About 550 bicyclists rested at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park in Syracuse Wednesday night, marking the mid point of a week-long, 400-mile ride following the Erie Canal. The bicyclists, who travel mostly off-road along the canal, left Buffalo Sunday and expect to arrive in Albany this coming Sunday. The riders range in age from 6 to 89. READ MORE.

ERIE CANAL BICYCLISTS - Slideshow

BICYCLISTS STOP IN ROME DURING TOUR OF ERIE CANAL – For Cliff Weatherell, leaning back and riding recumbent is the only way to ride. On Thursday afternoon, the Rochester resident was among 515 bicyclists who stopped at Fort Stanwix as the fifth stop of the Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour. The group was traveling from Buffalo to Albany during an eight-day tour of the canal. READ MORE.

ROME HOSTS BICYCLISTS ON 'ERIE CANAL TOUR' - On Thursday afternoon, riders participating in the 2011 “Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Tour” arrived at Fort Stanwix to rest, relax and enjoy the city’s hospitality. With over 500 bicyclists in all, the lawn of Fort Stanwix was one of the only locations that could provide both enough room and a prime spot for visiting bikers to test the local fare and entertainment. READ MORE.

JUNE 2011

FRACKTURED PARKS - National Recreation and Parks Association magazine article, “Fracktured Parks” looks at hydrofracking in parks.  PTNY’s quote in the article makes clear our position:  No drilling or resource extraction in any park! READ MORE.

TRAIL WOULD BOOST HEALTH AND WEALTH - With the growing popularity of bicycling, and the lure of being the only long-distance, multi-use trail within the Adirondack Park, the proposed thirty-four-mile Lake Placid-to-Tupper Lake trail along the Adirondack rail line would be a major draw. Bicycling is now the second-most common form of outdoor recreation in the United States, with sixty million Americans enjoying the activity. More Americans bicycle than golf, ski, and play tennis combined. Twenty-seven million Americans have taken a bicycling vacation in the past five years. READ MORE.

FOR NEW YORK, CYCLING COULD BE A RICH NICHE MARKET - In his new job as director of the state Canal Corporation, Brian Stratton isn’t only concerned with boats and locks, but also bicycles (there’s an almost continuous path that runs for nearly 400 miles, the entire length of the Erie Canal) and economic development. Like boats and locks, those last two shouldn’t be seen as separate: Bike tourism can have a significant impact on the economy. If he can come up with the money, Stratton, himself a cyclist, would like to find out just how significant by commissioning the nonprofit group Parks & Trails NY to do an economic impact study for bicycling.

APRIL 2011

DESPITE COLD, RAIN AND WIND...SWEEP SHINE - Clean Sweep, other beautification events go on - A little rain never hurt anyone. That was the mantra for most groups that participated Saturday in cleanup days throughout the Twin Cities and in Kenmore. Despite rain and wind in the forecast, those who were on hand not only had fun, but felt good about beautifying their hometowns. READ MORE.

FREEDOM TRAILS - MULTI-USE TRAILS OFFER EVERYONE A CHANCE TO ENJOY THE OUTDOORS -

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR 'CANAL CLEAN SWEEP' - Volunteer groups and individuals are invited to join the New York State Canal Corporation staff for the annual "Canal Clean Sweep," scheduled for the weekend of April 15-17. The events along the 524-mile-long Canal system help celebrate Earth Day and to prepare the canals for the regular navigation season that is scheduled to begin on May 1. READ MORE.

ALBANY HERITAGE AREA VISITORS CENTER PARTICIPATES IN 'CANAL CLEAN SWEEP' - The Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center will be participating in the Sixth Annual Canal Clean Sweep April 15 through 17. As part of this multi-community celebration, the Albany Visitors Center will be partnering with the Scouts of Northeastern New York on Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., beginning at the Visitors Center and ending with a sweep of the Corning Preserve. READ MORE.

CANAL SWEEP IS BACK IN TIME FOR D MORE.A NEW SPRING

MARCH 2011

SCHOHARIE CROSSING ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATION IN 6TH ANNUAL CANAL CLEAN SWEEP - In recognition of Earth Day 2011 and in preparation for the upcoming 187th consecutive navigation season on the New York State Canal System, the New York State Canal Corporation is partnering with Parks & Trails New York, and the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) to sponsor the Sixth Annual Canal Clean Sweep during the weekend of April 15-17. READ MORE

WALKERS, BIKERS FOCUS OF EVENT

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 200-MILE GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL: 6-DAY AUGUST TOUR FROM ALBANY TO NYC - The seventh annual Great Hudson Valley Pedal — a six-day, 200-mile recreational bicycle tour from Albany to New York City — is scheduled for Aug. 16 to 21. 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. The tour includes five panoramic bridge crossings, including the Walkway Over the Hudson, rides along designated bike routes, scenic roads, and off-road trails, such as the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway along the west side of Manhattan. READ MORE

CLC, GREENWAY TO SPONSOR COUNTY'S FIRST TRAILS CONFERENCE - Columbia Land Conservancy (CLC), in partnership with the Hudson River Valley Greenway, will sponsor the county’s first trail conference, Columbia County Trails, on Saturday, April 2. The conference will be held at Columbia-Greene Community College’s Professional Academic Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Registration forms are available on the CLC website, www.clctrust.org/trails2011, or by calling 518-392-5252. Registration cards are also available in town halls throughout the county as well as at Steiner’s Sports stores in Hudson and Valatie.  Space is limited and advanced registration is required.  READ MORE

WALKERS, BIKERS FOCUS OF EVENT - The Orange County Citizens Foundation's third annual placemaking conference will examine how expanding opportunities for pedestrians and bicycles can turn a good community into a great one. Speakers and panels at the conference, set for March 11 at Mount Saint Mary College, will present a complete analysis of the concept known as nonmotorized transportation, including economic impact, technical challenges, funding sources and health benefits. READ MORE

FEBRUARY 2011

SIGNUPS START FOR 400-MILE CYCLING THE ERIE TRAIL DUE IN ROME JULY 14 - Registration has begun for the July 10-17 "lucky 13th annual," eight-day, 400-mile, Cycling the Erie Canal bike tour across New York along the scenic and historic Erie Canal, named a National Heritage Corridor. That’s the trip where some 500 bicyclists camp out at Fort Stanwix on Thursday, July 14. READ MORE

SOUTHERN TIER PARK RECEIVES GRANT - Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum was one of eight not-for-profit parks in New York State to receive grant money to help grow the park. The Elmira park received $2,000 from advocacy group Parks&Trails New York. READ MORE.

7 TRAILS FOR WINTER HIKING IN AND AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK - Need some reinvigoration to get through winter? The Parks & Trails New York organization offers these seven multi-use flat trails...READ MORE.

STATE LOOKS TO AVOID PARK CLOSURES - State parks will stay open, for now. Acting state Parks Commissioner Andy Beers testified Tuesday at a budget hearing that no park closures are planned this year, despite orders from Gov. Andrew Cuomo to cut spending by 10 percent at state agencies. READ MORE.

OFFICIALS SEARCH FOR FUNDING TO KEEP HERKIMER HOME OPEN - Operators of the Herkimer Home historical site again are fighting Albany for the roughly $320,000 needed to keep the site open this year. About 40 people, including state officials and those from area municipalities and chambers of commerce, met Wednesday to brainstorm how to keep the site operating.“ The Gen. Herkimer site is very, very important to this country, to the state and to the Mohawk Valley,” Sen. Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, said. “It’s a real gem in terms of its history, and it would be a shame to lose such a site.” READ MORE.

STATE PARKS SEE RISE IN ATTENDANCE, BUT LOSE BUDGET MONEY - Hard hit over the last several budget cycles, New York's state parks and historical sites are facing another austere year, even as the number of visitors coming to the venues grows. Gov. Andrew Cuomo's 2011-12 budget proposal, released Tuesday, calls for a more than 8 percent cut in spending at the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The department's budget would fall from $228 million to $209 million under the proposal. Supporters say the parks have absorbed severe cuts each of the last two years and further reductions could compromise infrastructure and deter visitors. READ MORE.

OFFICIALS: BUDGET PLAN A GOOD FIRST STEP, BUT WATCH CUTS - Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposed budget is a good first step, as far as some area legislators are concerned. But the reductions are also a major worry for schools, state agencies and others affected by the cutbacks. Assemblyman Steve Hawley, R-Batavia, said the cuts need to be made carefully.“Governor Cuomo has repeatedly warned that this year’s budget would be painful, and today’s presentation confirmed exactly that,” he said. “Spending cuts are desperately needed to right New York’s fiscal course, but these cuts must be made with caution and consideration for the needs of our state. READ MORE.

JANUARY 2011

TRAILS FOR 'WINTER WONDER' CAN BE FOUND NEARBY - Parks & Trails New York, a parks and trail advocacy program, recently announced its "Seven Trails for Winter Wonder," and several of them are just a short drive away. The selected trails will reinvigorate the body and stimulate the senses of winter enthusiasts, the organization said in a news release.Scenic overviews, icy lakes, and frozen waterfalls are just a few landmarks which line the Trails for Winter Wonder. READ MORE.

TRAIL USER COUNT FOR CANALWAY IN SYRACUSE AREA - The New York State Canal Corporation and Parks & Trails New York today announced the availability of "Who's on the Trail? The Erie Canalway Trail User Count 2011," the fourth annual report about how people use the Old Erie Canal section of the Canalway in Onondaga and Cayuga counties. Volunteers at several locations along the Canalway counted an estimated 237,000 people in the past year. READ MORE.

FJ&G RAIL TRAIL NAMED 'WINTER WONDER'' - Parks and Trails New York has named the Fonda, Johnstown, and Gloversville Rail Trail as one of it's"Seven Trails for Winter Wonder." The organization made the list of trails they say are ideal for winter exercising and activities. READ MORE.

PARKS & TRAILS OFFICAL SAYS HERKIMER HOME IS SLATED FOR CLOSURE - The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 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 and cutting back services and open hours. READ MORE.

BUTLER, SEWARD HOLD STRATEGY SESSION TO FIGHT OFF CLOSURE OF HERKIMER HOME - State Senator James Seward and Assemblyman Marc Butler are working to save Herkimer Home from the state budget chopping block.“With state park use on a steady rise due to the economic crunch, it makes no sense to shutter Herkimer Home,” said Seward, R,C,I - Oneonta. “The cost to operate the site is low, but the return is high — local businesses receive an economic bump and the educational value to visitors is priceless.” READ MORE.

DESPITE JUMP IN VISITATION, NEW YORK SHSs STILL ON CHOPPING BLOCK - The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 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 and cutting back services and open hours. READ MORE.

PARKS & TRAILS OFFICIAL SAYS HERKIMER HOME IS SLATED FOR CLOSURE - The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 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 and cutting back services and open hours. The steady decline in the state parks budget (18 percent over the last three years), mandated layoffs and early retirements mean sites like Herkimer Home near Little Falls — closed through at least April 1 due to state budget concerns — are again on the chopping block. And across the system, shortened days, hours and seasons of operation have become the norm. READ MORE.

NEW WALKING TRAIL TAKING SHAPE IN CAYUGA - The Village of Cayuga is currently taking steps to define a new walking trail that officials say will help residents recognize and better appreciate the area’s natural beauty. According to village planning board member Carl Cuipylo, who is working to coordinate the plan, the 2.5-mile trail will run from the water tower on the village’s east side, through McIntosh Park and the grounds of...READ MORE.

TWO LI OUTDOORS GROUPS NAB GRANTS - Two local environmental-outdoors groups, Friends of Edgewood-Oak Brush Plains Preserve and Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists, have received grants from Parks & Trails New York, a statewide parks advocacy group. READ MORE.

VILLAGE OF CAYUGA TO GET TRAIL GRANT ASSISTANCE- The Village of Cayuga has been selected to receive assistance from Parks & Trails New York through its Healthy Trails, Healthy People program. The program is aimed at increasing the number of physically active New Yorkers by helping communities create new or increase the usage of existing multi-use trails. Selected communities receive help with technical issues, planning, public outreach, grant writing, fund raising, programming, organizational development and other activities critical to the long-term success of trail projects. Parks & Trails New York will work with the community to create the Village of Cayuga...READ MORE.

COPENHAGEN TRAIL WILL BECOME AN ALBATROSS - Concerning the recent article with the proposed walking trail in the village of Copenhagen, I, along with some concerned village taxpayers, are pondering the necessity of this frivolous project. The proposed trail tends to indicate a want, rather than a need, project and in time could be an albatross around the neck of the village taxpayer. READ MORE.

DECEMBER 2010

PARKS DECAY DUE TO BUDGET WOES - At state parks across the nation, this is the toll of the deepening budget crisis and years of financial neglect: crumbling roads, faltering roofs, deteriorating restrooms. Electrical and sewer systems are beginning to give out, too, as are scores of park buildings, some of them built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. In a few places, aging bridges have been detoured and tunnels blocked off because of falling debris. READ MORE.

PARKS & TRAILS WILL HELP COPENHAGEN PATH PROJECT - A nonprofit group dedicated to park and trail development will assist with planning for a walking trail here."They have worked with many, many communities," Judy K. Bartlett, a member of the Copenhagen Community Day Committee, said of Parks & Trails New York. "They know the ins and outs of getting these things started. It's a wonderful opportunity." READ MORE.

KINGSTON TIMES KINGSTON LAND TRUST CONTEMPLATES RAIL TRAILS THROUGH MIDTOWN -Say what you will about Midtown, but it’s got character. And with any luck, it might just have even more thanks to Parks & Trails New York selecting Kingston Land Trust to receive some assistance through its Healthy Trails, Healthy People program. The program is intended to increase the number of physically active New Yorkers by helping communities either create new or increase traffic on existing multi-use trails. READ MORE.

STATE OFFICIALS WEIGH IN ON PLAN TO CLOSE KNOX FARM - In the past week, several New York State officials have weighed in on plans to close Knox Farm State Park at the end of the year. State Senator Dale M. Volker and State Assemblywoman Jane Corwin, Republicans whose districts include the Town of Aurora, vowed that they would fight the planned closure. “Even at a time of unprecedented economic hardship, we cannot afford to ignore this unique facility that is home to community soccer clubs, equestrian events, hiking, cross country skiing, and nature walks,” Volker said in a news release on Nov. 23. “This 633-acre state facility is simply an incredible state asset that needs to remain open. READ MORE.

ADVOCATES CALL FOR MORE NY PARKS FUNDING - Advocacy groups are calling for a new source of revenue to revitalize New York's parks and historic sites, suggesting state leaders consider a surcharge on vehicle registrations, a deposit on plastic grocery bags or other measures used by other states. A report by the Alliance for New York State Parks and Parks & Trails New York says budget cuts have left the parks system understaffed and in need of repairs. READ MORE.

NOVEMBER 2010

CANALWAY TRAIL CLOSER TO COMPLETION - The Erie Canalway Trail, a bicycle and hiking trail from Buffalo to Albany that cuts through the heart of the Mohawk Valley, is about 75 percent complete, and progress is being made to develop one of the few remaining gaps, in Montgomery County. Canalway Trails Association New York, a statewide group that helps towns manage the canalway, and Parks & Trails New York, a nonprofit group that helps protect land and develop park space statewide, said in a recent report just six stretches remain undeveloped along the 360-mile path, including seven miles between Amsterdam and Rotterdam Junction. READ MORE.

KINGSTON RECEIVES ASSISTANCE GRANT FOR STUDYING RAIL TRAIL DEVELOPMENT - The Kingston Land Trust received an assistant grant Friday from Parks & Trails New York to study connecting existing rail trails outside the city to the Midtown area. “When I got the call, I almost went through the ceiling,” said Rebecca Martin, executive director for the trust. Parks & Trails officials will meet with the Land Trust on Dec. 9 to begin examining how to best convert the four railbeds that meet at Thomas Street in Midtown into usable trail space. Parks & Trails will also assist with grant writing and fundraising efforts once a feasibility study is complete. READ MORE.

FINISH THE ERIE CANALWAY - The Erie Canalway Trail follows roughly the same route as the high-speed rails corridor the state wants to create between Buffalo and Albany. And it could provide the same kind of benefits, including boosting upstate's sorry economy by bringing multi-day bicycle tourists, recreational users and other visitors to it and through it. READ MORE.

CLOSING CANAL TRAIL GAPS TARGETED BY PROMOTERS - ROTTERDAM JUNCTION-AMSTERDAM LINK IS A PRIORITY - An estimated $50 million is needed to close six gaps along the Erie Canalway Trail, including seven miles between Amsterdam and Rotterdam Junction, according to advocacy groups in an end-of-year progress report. READ MORE.

CUTS TO PARKS COST US ALL IN THE LONG RUN; STATE'S SMALL ANNUAL INVESTMENT IS WORTH THE REVENUE AND ENJOYMENTS LI'ERS REAP (BY ROBIN DROPKIN - Robin Dropkin is executive director of Parks & Trails New York, a nonprofit advocate for the state's parks.) - If you love Jones Beach, Heckscher, Hempstead Lake, Connetquot River, or any of the 209 other state parks and historic sites from Nassau and Suffolk up to Niagara Falls, the alarm has been sounded. Gov. David A. Paterson recently proposed to lay off 90 additional staff at the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. READ MORE.

NFTA MUST RESOLVE LAND ISSUES AND ISSUES BLOCKING PROGRESS - We are thrilled to learn that the Town and City of Tonawanda and Erie County parks officials have stepped up their efforts to create a six-mile multiuse trail from North Buffalo to within sight of the Canalway Trail in Tonawanda.

WKTV- Utica NEW REPORT CITES NEED TO CLOSE GAPS IN CANALWAY TRAIL TO BENEFIT UPSTATE ECONOMY - As the bicycling season winds down, the Canalway Trails Association New York (CTANY) says that progress has been made this year toward completing the 360-mile Erie Canalway Trail from Buffalo to Albany, but that more effort is needed to fill critical gaps in the trail before it can reachits full potential as a major tourism destination and local community resource. READ MORE.

JONES BEACH CASINO FAR FROM A SURE BET - Park advocates say the casino idea would never take off, citing the outcry over LIPA's proposed wind farm, which died, in part, because it would have been visible from the park. They also say that after the closed parks were reopened by shifting state funding before Memorial Day, any support for a casino probably evaporated. READ MORE.

PROGRESS BEING MADE ON 360-MILE CANALWAY TRAIL - Progress is being made on a 360-mile Erie Canalway Trail from Buffalo to Albany - though a group says more needs to be done. The Canalway Trails Association New York says the trail is now about 75% complete as an off-road path. But it says there are still six critical gaps in the trail that need to be finished before the trail can reach its full potential. READ MORE.

OCTOBER 2010

CUTS TO NY PARKS HURT ECONOMY - The firing of Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis because of a memo outlining the dire consequences of further cuts to the agency, which has suffered a 23 percent reduction of its work force since fiscal year 2007-2008, is deeply unfortunate.

MADISON COUNTY COURIER - VILLAGE DEDICATES PHASE I OF TRAIL SYSTEM - The Chittenango Creek Walk and Neighborhood Trail Committee and the village of Chittenango held a dedication and ribboncutting ceremony Friday to celebrate the completion of Phase I of the trail project in the village of Chittenango. Pictured from left are Co-Chairman Bill Nickal, Martin Daley of Parks & Trails New York, Mayor Ronny Goeler and Co-Chairwoman Donna Lynch. Phase I of a village trail project designed to connect several neighborhoods in the village of Chittenango with village schools and parks has been completed. Read more.

STATE PARKS SUPPORTERS LOOK TO 2011 - They fought hard to keep them open this summer. Now state park supporters are dropping hints to campaigning politicians about next year. Please keep our parks open. We'll accept cash. Our Erin Vannella reports."It's just a gorgeous fall day so we thought we'd take advantage of the nice weather and come out. It's free and it's fun you know," said Rotterdam resident Alexa Reyes. New York's state parks shine all signs of success. Attendance is up 3.5 percent for the summer, but the good times may be changing with the leaves."We think the end is here," said Parks and Trails New York Executive Director, Robin Dropkin. "There cannot be any more cuts." Read more.

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.

PARK & TRAILS NEW YORK APPLAUDS LEGISLATURE FOR SUPPORT - $89 million Will Address Critical Infrastructure Needs and Bring Jobs – Parks & Trails New York today applauds the New York State Senate and Assembly for including critical funding for infrastructure improvements at New York’s state parks and historic sites in their respective budget proposals. READ MORE

JANUARY 2012

PARAKS & TRAILS NEW YORK AWARDS 11 GRANTS TO STRENGTHEN PARK AND TRAIL GROUPS AROUND THE STATE - Capacity Building Grants totaling more than $18,000 were awarded today by the statewide advocacy group Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) 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.

DECEMBER 2011

COMPLETED TRAIL WOULD GENERATE $5 MILLION ANNUALLY IN ADDITIONAL BENEFITS TO UPSTATE - A new report cites the progress being made to close the five remaining gaps in the 365-mile Erie Canalway Trail.  The second annual Closing the Gaps: A Progress Report on the Erie Canalway Trail 2011 was released by the Canalway Trails Association New York (CTANY), in collaboration with Parks & Trails New York (PTNY).

NOVEMBER 2011

THREE TRAIL PROJECTS TO RECEIVE ASSISTANCE FROM PARKS & TRAILS NEW YORK - Three New York trail projects have been selected to receive assistance from Parks & Trails New York as part of its Healthy Trails, Healthy People program.  The program is aimed at increasing the number of physically active New Yorkers by helping communities create new or increase the usage of existing multi-use trails.  Selected communities 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.

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

TRAILS AND GREENWAYS CONFERENCE TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 23 AND 24 IN ITHACA - Just a few weeks remain to register for the Finger Lakes Region’s first-ever trails and greenways conference, to be held Friday, September 23 and Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Cornell University in Ithaca. Registration fees increase September 12. 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. Friday September 23 will feature a choice of four field trips to area trails and an early evening networking reception at the Nevin Welcome Center at Cornell Plantations. On Saturday, September 24, two nationally recognized trail experts, Jeff Olson and Craig Della Penna, will headline the program. READ MORE.

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.

SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE FOR GREAT HUDSON VALLEY PEDAL 21 200-MILE BICYCLE TOUR FROM ALBANY TO NYS FEATURING FIVE FABULOUS BRIDGE CROSSINGS - 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. 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. 

GOVERNOR'S BUDGET WILL DEVASTATE PARKS - AND THE REVENUE THEY GENERATE - Governor Cuomo’s proposed Executive Budget for the State Parks agency, which reduces the parks budget by $19 million, will result in park closings, plus more drastic cutbacks in hours and services.

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.