DEC releases final Recreation Management Plan for Big Moose Tract Conservation Easement

WEBB- The New York State DEC has released the final recreation management plan (RMP) for the Big Moose Tract Conservation Easement in the town of Webb, Herkimer County.

The property borders approximately 18.4 miles of DEC forest preserve lands (Ha-De-Ron-Dah and Pigeon Lake Wildernesses and Fulton Chain and Independence River Wild Forests) and 2.5 miles with the Three Lakes Tract Conservation Easement. Nearly four miles of the Remsen Lake Placid Travel Corridor pass through the property.

The RMP proposes the following actions:

• The Stillwater Mountain Fire Tower and access trail will remain open to the public except for the period from the second Tuesday in October through Dec. 20 each year (seasonal closure of this trail is a term of the conservation easement).
• Selective tree cutting will take place around the Stillwater Mountain Fire Tower to enhance scenic views.
• Conservation Easement snowmobile trails currently located on the property will be maintained by DEC and groomed by a combination of the Brantingham Snowmobile Club and the town of Webb.
• Alternative snowmobiles trails will be designated or constructed (0.7 miles of new construction) for when main trails are closed due to winter timber harvesting.
• A visitor survey will be conducted at Stillwater Mountain to inform DEC about visitor experience on the trail and summit.
• An interpretive panel highlighting forestry on the Big Moose Tract will be developed and installed.

Any questions about the Big Moose Tract Conservation Easement can be directed to the DEC Office in Lowville at 315-376-3521.

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