In the heart of New York's wilderness, a remarkable partnership is forging a path for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has teamed up with local organizations to host a series of youth hunting and conservation events, inspiring young minds and fostering a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.

Nurturing the Next Generation of Outdoor Stewards

Unlocking the Wonders of Waterfowl and Pheasant Hunting

The DEC's collaboration with the Borderline Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation and its dedicated Wildlife employees has resulted in an exceptional youth waterfowl and pheasant hunt at the Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area in the town of Louisville, St. Lawrence County. This event provided a unique opportunity for 12- to 15-year-old hunters to learn about New York's hunting regulations and hone their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors, parents, and volunteers.The success of this youth hunt was made possible through the generous support and donations from the New York Conservation Officers Association, St. Lawrence County Federated Sportsmen, and Potsdam Elks Club, as well as local and national retail firearms companies. Volunteer mentors, including Lieutenant Basford and ECOs Ryan, Atwood, Schneller, and Helmer, played a crucial role in educating and assisting the young hunters throughout the event. The result was a day filled with excitement and accomplishment, as several youth hunters successfully harvested birds during the hunt.

Exploring the Adirondack Backcountry: Ensuring Compliance and Safety

In the remote stretches of the Adirondack Forest Preserve in Hamilton County, ECOs LaPoint and Traynor conducted patrols focused on fishing and Navigation Law violations. These officers utilized various vessels, vehicles, and methods to ensure compliance with New York's Environmental Conservation Law, even in the farthest reaches of the Adirondacks.During their patrols, the ECOs issued two written tickets – one for insufficient personal flotation devices and another for failure to carry a fishing license. This proactive approach not only upholds the law but also promotes safety and responsible outdoor recreation, ensuring that the Adirondack wilderness remains a haven for all to enjoy.

Loon Calling and Fishing Fun at Kids Day

The town of Inlet in Hamilton County hosted a "Kids Day" event that included a fishing derby, where Lieutenant Higgins and ECO Traynor assisted children in catching sunfish, perch, and bass on Fifth Lake. The young anglers who caught the biggest fish were rewarded with prizes later in the day.But the highlight of the event was the first annual "Kids Day" loon calling contest. With the guidance of Gary Lee from the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation, who demonstrated various loon calls, 16 brave students showcased their best loon-calling skills. The ECOs had the honor of judging the contest, and three winners were presented with plaques for their impressive performances.

Empowering Women in Law Enforcement

The DEC's Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) played a prominent role in the annual New York Women in Law Enforcement training conference held in Lake Placid. DLE Director Karen Przyklek attended the event, along with other members of the division, to network, gain knowledge about current laws and trends, and develop leadership skills to strengthen police forces across the state.The DEC DLE pipe and drum band added a touch of tradition and pride to the opening ceremonies, showcasing the diverse talents and dedication of the department's law enforcement professionals.These events, driven by the DEC's commitment to youth engagement and conservation, are not only inspiring the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts but also fostering a sense of community, responsibility, and respect for the natural world. As the state's young people discover the joys and challenges of hunting, fishing, and outdoor exploration, they are poised to become the stewards of New York's precious natural resources, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.