Eye on the Sky: Derby Hill Hawk Migration (3/25/10 - 3/31/10)

Throughout the year, the eastern shore of Lake Ontario is a great destination for bird watching enthusiasts, due to its combination of unique habitat and positioning along major migratory routes for many species. Spring is a particularly exciting time to watch the skies along the shore, as this time of year brings the return of the raptors. Starting in March and continuing through May, a wide variety of birds of prey, including Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Broad-winged Hawks and many others, can be seen making their way north along the eastern shore. When conditions are right, thousands of raptors can pass overhead in a single day. One of the best sites to view this spring migration is the Onondaga Audubon Association's Derby Hill Bird Observatory, located just south of the Salmon River near Mexico, New York.

A view from the bluff overlooking Lake Ontario at Derby Hill. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

When conditions are right, numerous birdwatchers will converge upon Derby Hill to observe the spring hawk migration. I, Steward Greg Chapman, visited Derby Hill on March 27th, a sunny but cold Saturday morning, and joined a group of about ten birdwatchers keeping their eyes on the skies. It didn't take long before an impressive variety of birds were spotted--sometimes solitary, sometimes in groups--making their way overhead. Many were relatively common species seen this time of year such as Turkey Vultures, Red-tailed Hawks and Red-shouldered Hawks, which were seen in abundance, and several Bald Eagles were seen as well. Several less common species were also sighted during my brief visit, including a Northern Goshawk and an early Osprey--the second sighted this year (although these will become more common as the season progresses). What was really exciting for me, however, was a visit from a Golden Eagle, who came close enough for me to get a great look at through my binoculars. This was my first time seeing this large bird whose numbers have been increasing in recent years.

Jason Mauro of Syracuse, NY and Counter Seth Cutright (in red) look for hawks at Derby Hill Bird Observatory in Mexico, NY. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Derby Hill has been an important hawk-watching site for over 40 years--its elevated position along Lake Ontario's southeastern shore makes it the perfect spot to observe high-flying raptors heading north. These birds will not cross Lake Ontario during their migration, because they depend on currents of heated air rising off land heated by the sun, known as "thermals." Riding these thermals allows raptors to conserve energy during their long flight north. Derby Hill is one of a number of sites that keeps careful track of how many hawks are sighted each year--since 1979, a full-time counter has been employed by the Onondaga Audubon Society each spring to observe and tally the returning raptors. This spring, visitors to Derby Hill are likely to meet Seth Cutright, a Wisconsin native who is serving as this year's counter. The data he collects is entered into a database maintained by the Hawk Migration Association of North America (HMANA). The counts can be found online, with both monthly summaries for this year as well as daily reports, by clicking here.

Paul M. Roberts, in the foreground, Counter Seth Cutright, in red and other birdwatchers position themselves for the best view of migrating raptors. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

The Derby Hill Bird Observatory is free and open to the public, and is located at 36 Grand View Ave in Mexico, NY. Directions can be found here. If you come, be sure to bring your binoculars. A helpful guide illustrating some of the important features of the many raptors that may be seen, as well as silhouettes that will help identify hawks flying high over head, is provided online by HMANA and can be found here. The number and variety of birds seen each day is dependent on a number of conditions; although some raptors will likely be seen most days throughout April that are free of rain and unusually cold weather, in general the best days to come are on warm, partly cloudy days with wind coming from the south. Mid to late April is truly the peak of the spring hawk migration season; some days may see thousands of raptors passing overhead, including many Broad-winged Hawks that often arrive in great numbers. For more information about Derby Hill and the spring hawk migration, visit the Derby Hill Bird Observatory website at http://www.derbyhill.org/.

Step Into Spring! (3/18/10 - 3/24/10)

The Step Into Spring Fair at Jefferson Community College on March 24th drew in students and local community members who wanted to learn about recreational opportunities within Jefferson and Oswego Counties. Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Coordinator Mary Penney, and I, Steward Liz Wolff, spoke to dozens of visitors about the various wildlife management areas that are free to visit in both counties and also about recreation along the Salmon River. We were pleasantly surprised by the number of people who had visited the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes or Salmon River previously. Some people, however, were unfamiliar with those resource areas, and so we offered them maps, educational materials and suggestions about what locations they might like best.

Steward Liz Wolff welcomes visitors to the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program display at the Step Into Spring Fair at Jefferson Community College. The display includes photos from past educational programs and recreational opportunities at the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and on the Salmon River. Photo: Mary Penney, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

The event was also a great place to meet other local groups who promote stewardship. We met with leaders of both Boy and Girl Scout organizations who wanted to know how their young people could become involved with volunteering in partnership with the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program (ELODSRSHP). Potential volunteer opportunities include invasive species removal and organized beach cleanups--two areas where the more enthusiastic volunteers who pitch in, the better the result! We also made another exciting connection with Fort Drum Community Outreach Educator, John Pike. John was interested developing a relationship between the ELODSRSHP and the Fort Drum community so that the stewards could educate soldiers and their families about fun and proper usage of local resource areas.

Fort Drum Community Outreach Educators John Pike and Nancy Fitting provided visitors with information and guides to local recreation. Photo: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

The Wild Center at Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks was another presenter at the fair. The Wild Center is a museum including live animals and exhibits that change daily. Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County also had a display; they have a program specifically dedicated to Agriculture and Natural Resources in Jefferson County. There is a multitude of fun and educational outdoor programs and activities in Oswego, Jefferson and other counties across New York State. Keep an eye on the Upcoming Events section of this blog to find out what's happening next!

The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County--one of the many vibrant and educational displays at the Step Into Spring Fair at Jefferson Community College. Photo: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

A Great Time to be Outdoors! (3/11/10 - 3/17/10)

With the blanket of snow on the ground rapidly disappearing, one last winter event took place on Saturday, March 6th at Winona Forest in Mannsville, NY. Steward Greg Chapman attended The Tug Hill Tourathon, an annual cross country ski race hosted by the Winona Forest Recreation Association. One hundred seventy five participants competed over three distances (12.5km, 25km, and 37.5km) during the one-day event. Full results can be found here, and more information about Winona State Forest and the Winona Forest Recreation Association can be found here.

A pack of cross country skiers race at the Tug Hill Tourathon hosted by the Winona Forest Recreation Association. Several events take place at Winona Forest each winter. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Left to right: Brooke and Ted Orosz of New York City, and Mark Plaat of Albany participated in the Tug Hill Tourathon. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

One winter recreation activity that continues despite the melting snow is fishing along the Salmon River. Steward Greg Chapman reports that although water levels have risen recently due to snow melt and releases from the reservoir, many determined anglers are still sticking around to take advantage of the great steelhead fishing.

A train passes over-head as an angler tries his luck at the Schoeller fishing access location. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

As the weeks progress, there will likely be more traffic on the Salmon River as we head into the prime of steelhead spawning season. Steelhead, unlike Pacific salmon, usually do not die after the spawning process, meaning that they can spawn multiple times during their life-span.

Capturing Clues of a Waning Winter (3/4/10 - 3/10/10)

With the exception of the sound of waves crashing against ice along the coast, the drumming of woodpeckers as they drill into trees, and the occasional hum of snowmobiles off in the distance, the eastern shore of Lake Ontario is quiet in winter. Recently, I, Steward Liz Wolff, took a trip to Deer Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area (WMA) to check for signs of human recreation and to capture images of the winter landscape. Though my snowshoe tracks were the only ones around, I did see plenty of animal tracks in the snow, some of which may have belonged to the skunk I could smell lingering in the area. The most incredible sights and sounds, however, were along the cobble shoreline of Deer Creek Marsh WMA. Ice buildup on the water's edge created huge mounds--mounds that were quickly melting as the sun beat down, ushering in early signs of spring.

Top: Ice and snow build up on the shore of Deer Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area. Bottom: North facing view of Deer Creek. Photos: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Steward Greg Chapman has been enjoying the sun and warmer temperatures along the Salmon River Corridor. At the Salmon River Falls Unique Area, Greg noticed that the ice sheet which once covered most of the falls has melted allowing the water to cascade into the gorge once again. On a much smaller scale, Greg was fascinated by the sheer quantity of stoneflies emerging along the Salmon River. Close inspection of the snow, rocks, and bridges around the river revealed at first a few, then dozens, then hundreds of these small flies. Anglers wishing to "match the hatch" (a popular artificial bait selection strategy for catching trout) took note of these emerging adult insects, as well as their immature aquatic nymphs. These nymphs can be found by looking under river rocks this time of year.

Warmer temperatures have begun to melt the ice, allowing water to flow over the Salmon River Falls. Photo: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Stoneflies are an important source of food for larger inhabitants of the river, including steelhead and brown trout. However, the flies are also an indicator of the river's water quality. Stoneflies in general are sensitive to pollution, and their presence is a sign of clean, unpolluted water. The Salmon River, whose waters flow from a 285-square mile drainage basin consisting largely of undeveloped, forested Tug Hill Plateau lands, is considered a high-quality cold water fishery. Therefore, the abundance of these stoneflies along the river is to be expected as an indicator of the river's continued health and cleanliness!

This is a stonefly, which belongs to the scientific Order Plecoptera. All stoneflies belong to this order. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

It's that time of year: Steward Recruitment! (2/25/10 - 3/3/10)

Only a few short months remain before a new group of stewards will begin patrolling the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Salmon River Corridor. Over the last several weeks, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program Coordinator Mary Penney and I, Steward Liz Wolff, attended local college career fairs to recruit potential steward candidates.

On January 28th we visited Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) and spoke to interested students about what it means to be a steward. From public education in the natural resource areas to blogging about our experiences, we detailed the range of tasks that make being a steward an educational and rewarding experience. The FLCC career fair was also a great place to debut the new stewardship display. Complete with updated photos of both the Salmon River and Eastern Lake Ontario Dune sites, the display board visually summarizes the stewards' main activities and objectives.

Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program Coordinator Mary Penney and I had another opportunity to recruit on February 24th at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF). The Ninth Annual Environmental Career Fair drew in hundreds of students looking for jobs and internships. We talked to many eager students who signed up to receive
updates about the recruiting process. To our delight, we even met ESF graduate student, Matt Brincka who is a New York Sea Grant Scholar working for Diane Kuehn and Valerie A. Luzadis from ESF's Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management. Matt is currently investigating Constraints and Motivations Related to Bass Fishing along the Lake Ontario Coast. The goal of the study is to promote a strong and sustainable Lake Ontario resident bass fishing population. The request for proposals (RFP) for the next round of New York Sea Grant project funding is due 3/05/2010. To learn more about this study visit
http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/Images/Uploads/PDFs/omnibusresearch0910-projects.pdf .

ESF graduate student and New York Sea Grant Scholar Matt Brincka and New York Sea Grant's Mary Penney discuss the progress of the research project that Matt's working on. Photo: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Though the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat program is reaching the end of its contract cycle, potential stewards are still encouraged to apply. Multiple grant proposals were submitted and, pending funding, a new group of stewards will begin work in May. If you are a college student, recently graduated, or a graduate student interested in applying, please visit www.nysgdunes.org and click on the job descriptions to learn about the application procedure. Interviews begin in March so don't delay, apply now!

Mush! ( 2/18/10 - 2/24/10)

When you think of sled dog racing, maybe the first thing that comes to mind is the famous Iditarod in Alaska. The Iditarod, a grueling course 1,150 miles in length, takes ten or more days to complete. Upstate New York offers mushing opportunities of its own. Though not as epic in length or famous as the Iditarod, local races are a chance to watch or participate in this great winter sporting event.

On Saturday February 20th, Steward Greg Chapman and I, Steward Liz Wolff, headed for the Tug Hill region to attend the Mannsville Quest Sled Dog Competition held in Winona State Forest. The 10,000 acre forest, as part of the Tug Hill, averages nearly 300 inches of snow per year, making it an ideal spot for winter recreation.

Top: A team comes through the chute at the conclusion of the race, but the dogs just want to keep on racing! Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program. Bottom: Members of a team from Canada rest up before their big race! Photo: Liz Wolff, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

This year's sled dog races, organized by the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club, ran throughout the day on Saturday February 20th, and Sunday February 21st. Teams of four and six Nordic pure breeds competed in mid-distance races, while "fun" races in the afternoon were open to all breeds. Each competing team raced anywhere from 2.3 to 15.5 miles through pristine snow-covered woodlands.

During the event, we spoke to participants who graciously answered our questions about their fascinating sport. We learned that the most intelligent dog is chosen to be the leader, and that sometimes the dogs wear booties to prevent snow and ice build-up which can cause injury to their paws. We also took the time to survey visitors and participants about sled dog racing and other winter recreation they take advantage of in the area. We use the data collected in the surveys to try and better suit the needs of future visitors.

Sean Samolis of Syracuse, NY introduces the stewards to a member of his racing team. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Aside from sled dog racing, Winona State Forest is a fine location for cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Next Saturday, March 6th, check out the 30th Annual Classical Cross Country Ski Race beginning at 9:00 AM at Winona State Forest. For more information on the race and registration, visit http://www.winonaforest.com/skiers.html.

Winter Recreation (2/11/10 - 2/17/10)

This time of year, it may be difficult to think about anything other than ice fishing on local lakes and ponds. Not so for the crowds of people with summer on their minds who came to the Central New York (CNY) Boat Show, held February 10th-14th at the New York State Fairgrounds. In addition to the numerous boat and boat accessory retailers displaying their wares, attendees were also greeted by the New York Sea Grant Clean (NYSG) & Safe Boat. The 22-foot Grumman pontoon boat, built in New York State and made available by the Marathon Boat Group, was loaded with all the required and recommended safety gear, as well as a variety of items to help make boating more environmentally friendly. All items were clearly labeled, and stationed nearby were groups, such as the Coast Guard Auxiliary, who could further explain specifics related to each item. The NYSG Clean and Safe Boat campaign may be making the rounds at various 2010 summer events to help educate and encourage clean and safe boating.

The New York Sea Grant "Clean and Safe Boat" on display at the CNY Boat Show. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Transitioning from the warm thoughts at the NYS fairgrounds to the chilly temperatures outdoors, Steward Greg Chapman braved the cold for the 33rd annual Sandy Pond Sportsman's Association (SPSA) Ice Fishing Derby on February 13th & 14th. Nearly 270 anglers took part in the event, which was held behind Sandy Pond's barrier dunes, a familiar sight to summer beach goers from around the area. The event came to a close Sunday evening, when many of the participating anglers gathered at the SPSA clubhouse to witness the announcement of the winners. Steward Greg Chapman was also present with a display highlighting steward activities along the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Wetlands Area as well as the nearby Salmon River corridor. Greg provided informational literature and answered questions about the natural resource areas and the mission of Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewards.

Garrett Peterson of Pulaski, New York displays his winning Northern Pike (31.5 inches long, weighing in at 8.40 lbs) at the Sandy Pond Sportsman's Association 33rd Annual Ice Fishing Derby. Photo: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Later in the day, anglers who caught the top three perch and pike in adult and kids categories were awarded prizes. Prizes were also given for the top walleye, and the smallest perch caught in the kids age group. The full list of winners is posted at the SPSA's website.

Mid-winter Bald Eagle Survey 1/08 - 1/13/2010

It's that time of year again! For the 32nd consecutive year, New York State participated in the national mid-winter bald eagle survey. Although the actual survey dates began in December, 2009 we were only available to participate during the last week. It was Steward Liz Wolff's first time participating on the survey, while Steward Greg Chapman was returning for a second year. Liz was pleasantly surprised at the number of bald eagles that she observed. With the estuary being completely frozen, most of our sightings were along the headwaters of the Salmon River and Salmon River Reservoir. A total of 6 bald eagles were observed during the survey route during the "target date" January 11th. It was an experience that we will always remember!

Each year is important, but 2010 was especially important for the survey! This is the final year for the 25-year (1986-2010) national and regional trend analysis. The lowest statewide count in the last seven years was in 2007. While the highest in the same time span was in 2008. More information on bald eagles and the statewide mid-winter bald eagle survey can be found at http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7068.html.

Why does the state care about the wintering population of bald eagles? Historically bald eagles thrived in New York State. By 1960, the visiting winter population had dwindled to a few dozen and nesting pairs were reduced to a single pair. Drops in year-round and wintering bald eagle populations were likely a result of shootings, habitat loss, and chemical use, which was later banned in 1972.

A program with Alaska has helped increase the number of bald eagles in New York State.
Tips for viewing bald eagles (from http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/9378.html):
- Winter is the best time to view bald eagles.
- Dress appropriately (layers, boots, hat, gloves, binoculars, etc.)
- Scan tree lines for eagles perched in the tops trees.
- Look overhead for eagles that are soaring.
- Scan any ice or islands for feeding eagles.
- Eagles are most active during first and last light hours.
- Remain in, or near your vehicle.
- Avoid roosting areas.
- Do not make noise.
- Respect regulations, the environment and private property.

Please remember: Harassing, disturbing or injuring a bald eagle is a federal offense and carries a penalty of up to $20,000 and/or one year in jail.



A tree adjacent to the Route 3 (south) bridge on the Salmon River. Do you see anything in the tree?
Looking closer, it's a bald eagle! Photos: Mary Penney, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program.

Winter Wonderland!!!! January 2010

We are pleased to announce that after a couple of months of recharging Stewards Greg Chapman and Liz Wolff will be back along the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Salmon River corridor! This will be the second year the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program has stewards in the natural resource areas during the winter months. Since this is only the second year of the winter portion of the program, Greg and Liz will be gathering more information on the various winter recreational opportunities and attending some of the events in the natural resource areas. We will be posting updates about our findings as we go. Some of the events that we hope to report on are the annual wintering bald eagle survey, snowshoeing, dogsledding, and of course our experiences in the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Wetlands Area and Salmon River corridor during the winter months. If you haven't had the opportunity to visit these areas during the winter, we invite you to experience the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Wetlands and Salmon River corridor through our blog; we hope you enjoy it!



Dunes at Black Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA) (left) and Deer Creek Marsh WMA (right).


Beachgrass at Black Pond WMA. Photos: Greg Chapman, Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewardship and Habitat Program

Steward Q & A (11/12/09 - 11/18/09)

During my time on the Salmon River I, Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff, have been asked many questions about my experiences. Now that I am on the brink of finishing my time as a steward I'd like to answer those questions and reflect on some of the best moments of the season.

Q: What is your favorite part of being a Salmon River Steward?

A: For me, the most rewarding moments are when I can provide people with information that they didn't previously know. Sure, it's great to have a conversation with someone who is knowledgeable about the river, but when I educate to make a difference, that is when I feel true stewardship occurring. Of course my other favorite part of the job is my "office," or the Salmon River itself. I love being outside rain or shine, and spending time in the resource area beats spending time in a real office any day.

Q: What was your best experience while working on the Salmon River?

A: I really enjoyed helping out and giving educational programs at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery during spawning season. I came in knowing next to nothing about pacific salmon and was quickly submerged in a wealth of information that I had to absorb quickly in order to present it to other people. I liked interacting with the various school groups that visited the Hatchery, they always had the greatest questions, especially the younger kids.

A frost coating at Sportsman North foreshadows the cooler weather to come. Photos by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Q: If you could change one thing about the Salmon River what would it be?

A: Though I am always explaining the carry-in/carry-out regulations to visitors, there is sometimes litter that still gets left behind. I hope that in the future everyone can practice good stewardship and encourage fellow anglers and visitors to pick up litter along the river or in parking areas. The vast quantities of balled up fishing line are especially dangerous for fish, turtles, and waterfowl. I would like to see the Salmon River preserved and litter-free.

The Salmon River Falls Unique Area, a must-see location in the Salmon River Corridor. Photos by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Q: Where would you spend all your time on the River, if you could?

A: To be honest, I would probably alternate between a few places. The Salmon River Falls Unique Area comes to mind first. It is amazing to have such a scenic jewel so close by. Next I would choose the Upper Fly Fishing Area. This short stretch of river is pristine and provides some great hiking opportunities. I've also met some really interesting people while monitoring the Upper Fly. My third and forth locations would be the Pineville Fishing Access and Schoeller/Paper Hole because I love taking photos of bridges (For the blog, obviously!).


Bridge at Pineville Fishing Access Location during peak foliage. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Q: What is the most interesting thing you learned about fish?

A: Learning about the process of imprinting was very cool. I never really understood how salmon returned back to the place they were born so that they could spawn. When fish are raised at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery they are eventually put into a smolting pond and they go through a physiological change during which they imprint on the water from the Salmon River, the Hatchery, and Beaver Dam Brook. During imprinting fish memorize the chemical attributes of a body of water. They then use their keen sense of smell to return to that location later in life.

An angler proudly holds up a steelhead caught in the Lower Fly Fishing Area. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

I've immensely enjoyed my time as a Salmon River Steward and I hope I have the opportunity to work in the area again in the future. Thank you for reading the blog all these weeks, and for your continued support of the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Salmon River Stewards Program!

Studying the Past, Looking to the Future (11/5/09-11/11/09)

On Thursday, November 5th I attended the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Wetland Conference at the New York State Fairgrounds. The workshop's purpose was to reflect on past management strategies and plan for the future stewardship of the Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Wetland Area (ELODWA). Attendees of the meeting included members of The Ontario Dune Coalition (TODC) which represent a variety of groups such as The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, The Nature Conservancy, New York Sea Grant, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Jefferson County Soil and Water and several private landowner associations, to name a few.



Views of Lake Ontario from Black Pond Wildlife Management Area, part of the ELODWA, during the summer of 2009. Photos by Eastern Lake Ontario Dune Steward Liz Wolff.

The discussion kicked off with a presentation about, "New York's Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Wetland System: Guidelines for Resource Management in the 21st Century," a report prepared by Geoffrey Steadman that can be found here. After reviewing the progress of TODC's past initiatives, we were asked to break into groups and brainstorm ideas for future projects that would benefit the ELODWA. Suggestions covered a broad scope of issues enveloping everything from the management of invasive species, to the creation of an educational Visitor's Center along the eastern shore.

I enjoyed attending the meeting because I had the opportunity to contribute feedback from a steward's point-of-view. In the future, I would like to see public education programs expand so that all visitors to the eastern shore will grasp the complexity of human impacts on natural resource areas. The understanding of ELODWA as a unique and fragile system will help to ensure its continued protection for years to come.


Purple Jelly Drops or Ascocoryne sarcoides (top) and Armillaria Root Rot or Armillaria mellea (bottom) located at Trestle South along the Salmon River. Photos by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

I am nostalgic about my times as an Eastern Lake Ontario Dune Steward, I and was happy to spend the early part of my week discussing the future of the resource areas that I've grown to love. Now though, I am back in "river mode," and am preparing for the conclusion of my term as a Salmon River Steward. While the upper sections of the river, specifically around Altmar, NY, have been relatively busy, finding anglers to talk with down river has been a challenging task. Anglers that I have spoken with, however, are pleased with the number of fish coming into the river during this early part of the steelhead run. An interesting fact that can impact angling success is that specific weather conditions and times of day are better to fish for steelhead than others. For example, steelhead do not like bright light, so when it is sunny outside the best time to fish is during the first and last hour of daylight. When the skies are overcast, steelhead are more likely to be active all day. The recent streak of sunny weather may be why fewer anglers have reported having good luck. Knowing the fish's behavior and preferences can help make any fishing trip more successful!



An angler catches a brown trout in the Upper Fly Fishing Area. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Transitions (10/29/09 - 11/4/09)

Perhaps one of most attractive places along the Salmon River Corridor is the Salmon River Falls Unique Area. Last week Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman and myself, Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff, took a drive up to the falls to do some end-of-the-season pickup and leaf raking. I also took the opportunity to hike the Gorge Trail which is the very steep path used to access the riverbed area. I had never gone down the Gorge Trail before, but I quickly realized that it can be dangerous, especially at this time of year when fallen leaves and precipitation make the rocks slippery.

Left: River Steward Greg Chapman rakes leaves at the Salmon River Falls Unique Area. Right: Gorge view of Salmon River Falls. Photos by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Another location at which visitors should use special caution is the top of the falls. Even while Greg and I were cleaning up, we had to remind some sightseers that they could not stand within 15 feet of the edge. Later on, Greg and I talked with a few more visitors: however, these individuals were eager to see anglers along the river and wanted to know what the closest access site was. We directed the people to the Upper fly Fishing Zone where, although salmon season is ending, greater numbers of trout fishermen are coming to the Salmon River in preparation for prime steelhead and brown trout opportunities in the coming weeks.

Top: Brown trout caught at the Paradise Pool. Bottom: Anglers along the Upper Fly Fishing zone.
Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Anglers in the Upper and Lower Fly Fishing Zones, specifically, have already begun catching beautiful trout for several days now, and are hopeful that this will be another plentiful season of fishing. In conversations along the river, Steward Greg Chapman has heard positive feedback about regulations limiting how many steelhead can be taken. Each angler is allowed to take one steelhead per day; this limit has noticeably increased the number of steelhead trout in the river. Many of the fishermen Greg spoke with also practice catch-and-release fishing, a habit that helps maintain a world-class fishery at the Salmon River.

View of the Salmon River Estuary. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Unfortunately, as salmon season comes to a close so to does Greg's time as a River Steward. Before leaving Greg would like to say a few words,

"After two years working in this region, I can say I'm going to miss it. I've really enjoyed getting to know the resource areas (both the Salmon River and the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes), and the people who work and enjoy spending their time here. I certainly would not mind finding another job in this area; barring that, I'll definitely be back to visit. It will be interesting to see how these areas, that receive such heavy recreational use, while still being ecologically complex and sensitive, will continue to evolve to meet the needs of their natural inhabitants and human visitors alike."

Greg has been a fantastic steward as well as colleague. We wish him the best in the future and thank him for all the great work he's done over the last two years!

Odd Jobs (10/22/09 - 10/28/09)

"Turtle rescue" isn't on the official list of duties for Salmon River Stewards, but when covering an area as large as the Salmon River, sometimes unexpected tasks come our way. For me, Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman, the normal walk along the train tracks on my way into the Schoeller fishing access site got pretty interesting when I nearly tripped over a large snapping turtle that had somehow gotten itself hung up on one of the tracks.

This turtle got more than he bargained for when he tried to "ride the rails" near the Schoeller fishing access site on the Salmon River. Photos by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.

I can't fathom how this turtle got itself into this predicament, but it didn't appear able to move itself off of the track. These are active train tracks, so as much as I don't normally seek to place my hands near a large snapping turtle, I did feel compelled to move him off of the tracks. I learned a great deal about how far snapping turtles' necks can extend, and just how quickly they can lunge when they feel threatened; not to mention the size of their claws! However, after carefully assessing the situation, I did manage to move the heavy, slippery and ill-tempered turtle successfully, and I lost no fingers in the process.

The snapping turtle was successfully transferred to the side of the train tracks, after taking time to pose for a few close-up shots. Photos by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.

Elsewhere on the river, things are a bit quieter than they have been in recent weeks with salmon season continuing to wane; although salmon continue to be sought and caught on the upper river (including some beautiful coho salmon), many anglers on the lower river are reporting good things about the increasing number of steelhead and brown trout to be had. After the hectic pace of peak salmon season earlier this month, the more relaxed atmosphere on the river is a welcome change.

Watching the trains cross the bridge near the Schoeller fishing access location. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

However, even with fewer people on the river, some problems have been observed. Particularly, the recent cold snap has made the idea of a warm fire appealing to some anglers; both myself and Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff witnessed open fires along the riverbanks this past Friday. Open fires are not allowed along the banks of the Salmon River, for several reasons: First, much of the public fishing access is accomplished through easements on otherwise private property, and fires and their remains are not appreciated by the private property owners. Second is the danger of an unattended fire spreading quickly because of the abundance of downed leaves, branches and pine needles along the river.

Though many of the birds have moved south as the weather chills, their nests, such as this one near Compactor Pool, remain. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

When visiting the Salmon River you will most likely see signs posted in parking areas that describe the regulations which apply to most areas of the river. Anglers should always check the regulations before using each site, in order to better understand how they can responsibly use the site and minimize their impacts. These signs can also provide information about other important regulations, such as seasonal tackle restrictions in the fly fishing-only areas upstream, and the daily catch limits elsewhere. These regulations are also available for review in the current year's Freshwater Fishing Regulations; be sure to note the special sections regarding Great Lakes tributaries and the Salmon River specifically. Nobody wants to end their fishing day by receiving a ticket from a Conservation Officer. Regulations are created and enforced with the needs of the fish and the fishery in mind, to help keep fishing great now and into the future.

Dead salmon are a fact of life along the banks of the Salmon River at this time of year, as Pacific salmon die after spawning. Photo by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.

And, of course, if you ever have any questions about regulations on the river, or any other aspect of the river and its inhabitants, feel free to ask us if you see us!

Oncorhynchus mykiss (10/15/09-10/21/09)

In the last week I, Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff, learned an invaluable life lesson. The best way to absorb new information is to be responsible for presenting that information to others. In five days, I lead or assisted with six educational programs at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery. School groups from Holland Patent, Cortland BOCES, Lowville, Homer, Central Square, and Morrisville College all learned about or witnessed coho Salmon spawning first-hand. When I began my position as a Salmon River Steward, I had very little knowledge about angling, spawning and the river in general. Now, just a few short weeks later, I've broadened my knowledge base more quickly than I thought possible, mostly thanks to my role as an educator.

Garter snake at Schoeller public fishing access location.
Photo by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.

Whenever I lead a tour or program I encourage people to ask a lot of questions. Of course, I am pleased when I know the answers to them, but when I don't, I see it as an opportunity to learn something new. Being an educator also means being a learner, and I'm still learning new bits of information every day that I work as a steward.

The forest floor along the Salmon River is beautiful in the fall! Top left: Maple leaf with water droplets. Top right: Fungus on a tree stump. Bottom left: Tree stump with beaver teeth marks. Bottom right: Sulfur shelf. Photos by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

When I'm out on the Salmon River talking to anglers I hear a wide array of questions, comments, and concerns. Lately though, I keep hearing one comment again and again; "I can't wait for steelhead season!" Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman explains, "As colder weather sets in for the long haul, we also begin to see the transition from salmon season to steelhead season, a time many anglers have been anxiously anticipating. Fishermen this past weekend were already catching some beautiful brown trout and steelhead, and it sounds like we may have another great season on the way." In the last few days I've also noticed that more anglers are reporting catching steelhead. This hearty fish is often an angler favorite because of its "fighting" behavior when hooked. Steelhead tend to zigzag all over the river and jump into the air once they've taken their bait.

Witch Hazel flowers at Pineville. Witch Hazel is a common shrub along the Salmon River, and is unusual in that it flowers in the fall. Photo by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.

Steelhead are physically identical to rainbow trout, and are in fact the same species (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The difference lies in their behavior; while rainbow trout will inhabit a particular lake or stream throughout their life cycle, steelhead will migrate from open water up streams and tributaries to spawn. Although they spawn in the spring, steelhead begin entering tributaries in late summer and early fall, and feed heavily on salmon eggs. Unlike pacific salmon (such as the coho and chinook), steelhead do not die after spawning, and will instead "drop back" to the lake, remaining there until it is time to spawn once again.

Leaf shadows at Schoeller by Salmon River Steward Greg Chapman.
Fall foliage at Trout Brook by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Native to the Pacific Northwest, steelhead migrate between the ocean and nearby rivers. They have been stocked in New York State in the mid-1970s from egg stock received from Washington State. Currently all steelhead stocked in New York are raised from eggs collected at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery in Altmar, NY during the spring. In addition to Washington strain steelhead, stocking of Skamania (also called "summer-run") steelhead has been taking place with the goal of making the Salmon River a more year-round fishing destination. Skamania tend to enter the river earlier (occasionally as early as May, more frequently between June and September), and stay in the river later than Washington strain steelhead. Currently, the Salmon River is the only New York river stocked with Skamania by the New York State Department of Conservation.

View of the Salmon River at Pineville drift boat launch. Photo by Salmon River Steward Liz Wolff.

Whether you're enjoying the end of salmon season, anxiously waiting for steelhead season, or just curious about the area, there's always something to see and do in the Salmon River Corridor.