State seeks comments on Shawangunk Ridge management plan

State Department of Environmental Conservation officials on July 17 will provide details on proposed revisions to the 2017 unit management plan for the 6,810 acres in the eight forest preserves along the Shawangunk Ridge.

The session will be 6-8 p.m. in Mamakating Town Hall, 2948 U.S. Route 209, Wurtsboro.

Revisions to plan focus on “maintaining and expanding recreational facilities and opportunities,” officials in a press release.

A spokesperson said the state is seeking suggestions and recommendations for improvements. “Public input is crucial in shaping a plan that balances forest management, expands recreational opportunities, and improves public access while protecting natural resources,” Regional Director Kelly Turturro said.

Areas in the plan include Shawangunk Ridge State Forest, which is in Ulster and Sullivan counties, and Oregon Trail, which is entirely in Ulster County. Other areas are Huckleberry Ridge State Forest, Graham Mountain State Forest, Gobbler’s Knob State Forest, Wurtsboro Ridge

State Forest, Roosa Gap State Forest, and Witch’s Hole Multiple Use Area.

Officials in the 2017 plan said that that the Shawangunk Ridge Trail has among the best views in the management area.

“This tail provides some spectacular views of the Hudson, Rondout, Neversink and Delaware River Valleys as well as the Catskills and Hudson Highlands,” officials wrote. “Wurtsboro Ridge, Roosa Gap, and Shawangunk Ridge State Forests along with Witch’s Hole Multiple Use Area all have exceptional views.”

The plan also recommended that fisheries management needed to be monitored for quality assurance.

“The streams suspected of containing brook or brown trout should be sampled to verify the presence of these species and the appropriateness of the respective water quality and classification and standard,” they wrote. “Additionally, periodic fish surveys should be conducted to update the overall species list for the unit.”

Comments can also be submitted to Evan Masten, NYSDEC, 21 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz, NY 12561, or via email to r3.UMP@dec.ny.gov by Aug. 20.