Adirondack Park Agency · convey practical and useful information to the traveling public. The...

2003 Annual Report

R e c o g n i z i n g 3 0 y e a r s o f c o m m i t m e n t t o t h e A d i r o n d a c k P a r k .

Adirondack Park Agency

Introduction 1 Partnering with Communities 4 Stewardship for the

Environment 8 A Resource for the Community 12 Foundations–Reflections

on 2003 16

table of contents

an introduction

THROUGHOUT THE THIRTY YEARS of its history, the

Adirondack Park Agency has had the good fortune to benefit from

the skills and commitment of countless individuals, ranging from

its board members, staff, and subcontractors to the valued mem-

bers of local and area communities. As we celebrate our thirty

years of history in this year’s annual report we’d like to say “thanks”

to these individuals whose passion and commitment to the

Adirondack Park have made possible the progress we’ve achieved

in protecting this vast and beautiful land. � � � With that end in

mind, you’ll notice this year we’ve changed the look of our an-

nual report. In addition to reading about our progress this past

year, we hope you enjoy reading the profiles of three current

projects demonstrating the commitment made every day by

Agency staff and Park residents. We think you’ll agree the Agency

could not do its job without this support.

Left: Agency staff on the shores of WindfallPond attending the 30th Anniversary Retreat.From left: Sunita Halasz, Brian Grisi, SueParker, Emily Tyner, Jennifer Carlo, ArielDiggory, Walt Linck, Leigh Walrath, RayCurran, John Barge, and Milt Adams.

The newly relocated commemorative stone donated by

Finch, Pruyn and Co., Inc. leads visitors along a path

with four wayside exhibits at Site Four of the interpretive

exhibits in North River.

2003 Annual Report 5

partnering with communities

THE ADIRONDACK PARK AGENCY IS COMMITTED to

helping Park communities help themselves. This happens in a

variety of ways, providing technical assistance, advice and financial

grants, among other activities. In every instance, the Agency’s

degree of success in being of help is directly linked to how well it

is able to develop and nurture partnerships and build trust and

cooperation at the local level. A shining example of how well this

has worked exists in the Town of Johnsburg and its North Creek

and North River communities.

Left: Site Four wayside exhibit area, showingthe relocated memorial stone and the newlylandscaped exhibit area utilizing nativeplants; Right: (from left to right) exhibitareas on Sites One, Two and Three.

I've long felt the four riversiderest stops between North Creekand North River offered a greatopportunity for the Agency tojoin hands with a localcommunity in converting anexisting resource into linkedinterpretive exhibits availablefor everyone to enjoy…residentsand Park visitors alike.

—ED HOOD, Assistant DirectorAdirondack Park Planning

the hudson river interpretive exhibitsWithout a doubt theAdirondack Park is one ofthe most beautiful anddiverse naturalenvironments in the UnitedStates. Natural and scenicamenities combine with arich history and a variety ofrecreational attractions tocreate almost unlimitededucation and recreationpotential for its 12 millionannual visitors.

The Greater Upper HudsonRiver Watershed isapproximately 1.7 millionacres in size, covering almostone-third of the surface areaof New York’s six millionacre Adirondack Park. Themighty Hudson River has itsbeginnings at Lake Tear ofthe Clouds in the High Peaksregion near the Town ofNewcomb before it begins itslong descent to New YorkCity and the Atlantic Ocean.The river is an asset ofunmeasurable historicinfluence and value to thelong term health andwellbeing of New York State.

THE VISIONIn the five-mile stretch of the NYSRoute 28 Central AdirondackTrail Scenic Byway between NorthCreek and North River, theHudson River clings to the roadcorridor, offering the travelerunlimited opportunities to enjoythe river’s spectacular landscape.Four roadside pulloffs exist alongthis stretch of highway, providingopportunities for views and accessto the river.

In this scenario lay a wonderful,untapped opportunity to tell thepast and present story of theHudson River. The Agencyenvisioned developing the fourroadside pulloffs into linkedinterpretive-educational exhibitsfeaturing information on the

history of the area, availablerecreational opportunities,cultural events, and local andregional ecology.

The idea was to have each of thefour sites highlight a differenttheme of the story about the river,its current and historic value, andits importance to the region andNew York State. Visitors stoppingat each site would view theinformation there and beencouraged to move on to thenext site to learn more of theriver’s story.

The Agency saw this project as anopportunity to interpret anunder-valued area of the Park andconvey practical and usefulinformation to the travelingpublic. The exhibits offer theopportunity to promote otheractivities in the area includingcross country skiing, rafting,mountain biking, camping,sightseeing and train rides.

THE PLANTo bring the project to reality, theAgency structured a partnershipof local, regional and other stateagencies, working with funds itobtained from the NYS ScenicByways Program. A dedicatedgroup was pulled together, led bythe Agency and including theTown of Johnsburg, localcommunity groups and citizens,the NYS Department ofTransportation, the NYSDepartment of EnvironmentalConservation, Warren CountyParks and RecreationDepartment, consultants Tevlin +Clarke, area citizens, and JackDiamond and the Green Team.

6 Adirondack Park Agency

Each site presented unique challenges. OnSite Two the primary objective was to createa safe and accessible exhibit area wherescenic views of the river could be enjoyedwhile visitors explore the interpretive themeof the site–the Hudson River habitat.

Taking advantage of the site’s seclusion, awelcoming area was created by consultantsKathiann Tevlin and Michael Clarke usingnative plantings supplied by Schroon FallsFarm Gardens & Nursery. By using low-

profile exhibit bases, Tevlin + Clarkedeveloped a site plan allowing forsimultaneous viewing of the river whilereading the text of the three interpretivepanels.

In this image, the site landscape is beingleveled with the addition of layers of graveland high quality soil to keep the plannednative plantings healthy.

Johnsburg’s rich history will be highlightedwith our bicentenniel celebration in 2005.The scenic byway program has shownresidents and visitors to our area how muchthe Hudson River adds to that history.

From recreation to commerce to ecology, theHudson has been a catalyst to ourcommunity. I am very pleased the ParkAgency applied for this grant on our behalf.Consultants Tevlin & Clarke have shown agreat interest in getting factual displays inplace and work well with the community.State agencies were instrumental also inmaking this happen. DEC, DOT and APAall worked to create a new major touristattraction in our community.

—BILL THOMAS

The most essential part of thisequation was the Town ofJohnsburg, under the guidanceand leadership of Town Supervi-sor, Bill Thomas. Committing thetalents of Town staff and arearesidents, and matching contribu-tions in labor and materials, theTown of Johnsburg embraced theAgency’s vision and committedthemselves to the success of theproject. It stands as a greatexample of how local residentsbought into the idea and stoodside by side with the Agency andits team to bring the project toreality.

THE RESULTEighteen months of hard workand cooperation paid off in aproject the Town has proudlytaken to heart and serves as aninspiration to other communitiesof how local government, teamingwith the Agency and others, canimprove their community,promote their local economy, and

at the same time help share inthe responsibility for

protecting theAdirondack Park.

Town of Johnsburg staff BruceUpdike, Skip Goodspeed, JimFrench and Larry Cook hard atwork surfacing the newly laidgravel at Site One, in preparationfor the installation of two exhibitbases and bench.

Access to the river and picnickingfacilities at these sites make themgreat locations for family picnics.

As it runs by North River andNorth Creek, the river is the siteof the oldest, continuouswhitewater canoe and kayakrace in the country, the HudsonRiver Whitewater Derby. EachMay for the past 45 years, tens ofthousands of people have flockedto the North River/North Creekarea to participate in and viewthese races.

BACKGROUNDAs the river winds its way southsome 50 miles to North River andNorth Creek, it begins to closelyparallel the road offering spec-tacular views and easy access forrecreation. Historically, the river’sproximity to the early roadsattracted settlers to this region toharvest timber and mine garnet.The river answered the need ofhow to get logs to market.

As the area opened up to moresettlers, it also offered theopportunity to cater to touristsand guide sportsmen. Later in the1800s, the railroad becameavailable to help move products tomeet growing tourism interest inthe Adirondacks and became astrategic element in the country’sefforts to meet its wartime needsfor materials from mines such asTahawus.

Project team members Larry Cook and Milda Burns mug for a shot at Site Four,where the memorial stone donated by Finch Pruyn to the men who worked theriver was moved to its new place of honor as part of the site’s interpretive theme

celebrating the lives of loggers and river runners.


Non-native invasive plants threaten to invade natural

systems of the Park. The Adirondack Park Agency works

with the Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program

partnership to locate and remove infestations. Through

diligent effort on the part of Agency staff, the staff of other

organizations, and local volunteers, the Park will retain

its native plant diversity.

In 1973, the Adirondack Park Land Use and Development Plan

was set in place to protect the “open space resources” of the Park.

Important elements were wetlands and diverse ecosystems, deer

wintering areas, habitats of endangered species and key wildlife

habitats. Today, with the advancement of the Park’s character and

an increase in the awareness of ecology needs within the Park, the

agenda for protection has changed. In addition to concerns about

loss of species diversity, we are concerned with quality of life,

eliminating invasive species, and finding ways to better

communicate with each other.

stewardship for the environment


Left: (from left to right) Steven Flint, LeslieKarasin, Peter Smith and Sunita Halasz“phrag whacking” at wetlands along NYSRoute 86 in Ray Brook.

Invasion of non-native plant and animal species is one of the top

threats to the ecology of the Adirondacks. Because of the mostly intact

forest of the core of the Adirondacks, many pests have not gained a

foothold, but the threat of invasive species is increasing with the

growth of human populations, global trade and disturbance of the

environment. Effectively dealing with the problem of invasive species

presents a significant conservation challenge, both biologically and

politically. Stopping potentially invasive species before they spread

into and throughout the Adirondacks is the best option for long-term

protection.

Project Merging andCoordinator Position TransitionIn spring 2003, the Adirondack ParkTerrestrial Invasive Plant Project andAquatic Invasive Plant Projectcombined their efforts under theumbrella organizational name of the‘Adirondack Park Invasive PlantProgram (APIPP).’

Upon the expiration of a grant fromthe Environmental Protection Agency,on October 1, 2003 both the aquaticand terrestrial invasive plant projectscontinued under the direction of aprogram coordinator position fundedand supervised by The AdirondackNature Conservancy in Keene Valley.The program coordinator will serve a12-month contract and implement awork plan of tasks and deliverablesextracted from the larger guidelinesdeveloped by the partner organiza-tions and presented in theAdirondack Park Invasive PlantAction Plan.

APIPP partners and volunteers carry theimportant message of invasive plantprevention, early detection and rapidresponse across the Park. Throughmonitoring and mapping and encouragingcommunity awareness, APIPP volunteers areplaying a significant role in preventing thespread of invasive species.

—HILARY OLES, APIPP Coordinator


Dan Fitts welcomes all to the unveiling ofthe Adirondack Park Invasive PlantProgram’s website (www.adkinvasives.com)and is joined by program partners from leftto right at the table, DEC Region 5 DirectorStu Buchanan, DEC Region 6 DirectorSandy LeBarron, DOT Regtion 7 Director,Carey Babyak, Mike Carr, ExecutiveDirector, Adirondack Nature Conservancy,and Dr. John Mills, President, Paul Smith’sCollege.

invasive speciesThe Terrestrial Invasive Plant Project(TIPP) has been inventoryingterrestrial invasive plant sites since1998 and implementing controlmethods since 2000.

In 2001 the Adirondack Park Agency(APA), the Department of Transpor-tation (DOT), the Department ofEnvironmental Conservation (DEC),and the Adirondack Nature Conser-vancy (ANC) entered into anagreement to collaborate in this effortand to inventory invasive plantspecies along highways in theAdirondack Park.

To date, TIPP has confirmed thepresence of terrestrial invasive plantspecies at 174 sites within the “CoreProject Area,” which generally is thecentral Adirondacks. Manual andherbicidal controls were undertakenon 95 of these sites. CertifiedPesticide Applicators from DOT staffimplemented herbicide controls andthe partner organizations andvolunteers physically removed plantsfrom these sites.

The U.S. Department ofTransporation, Federal HighwayAdministration, recognized theenvironmental significance of theprogram with an EnvironmentalExcellence Award in 2001.

The Aquatic Plant ProjectA complementary aquatic AdirondackPark Invasive Plant Program (APIPP)

was also initiated in 2001 when theAdirondack Park Agency and partnerorganizations including DEC, ANC,Paul Smiths College, and the FranklinCounty Network of ShorelineAssociations, submitted a proposal tothe U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency to institute a centralizedframework for aquatic invasive plantmonitoring and educational outreachin the Adirondack Park over atwo-year period. Funding wasawarded to the APA in support of thisbaseline project.

During 2002, 46 volunteers moni-tored 54 waters and confirmed thepresence of Eurasian water milfoil in15 of those waters. Information fromother plant monitoring groups raisesthe number of waters containing oneor more aquatic invasive plant speciesto 41. In 2003, 66 volunteersmonitored 68 waters, and surveyefforts located five additional lakesinfected with aquatic invasive plants.

The success of the program is thefostering of volunteerism and thesharing of technical expertise. Forexample, in 2003 eighty-fourparticipants attended one of threevolunteer monitoring trainingsessions in aquatic plant identifica-tion and survey methods.

Serving information to the PublicAPIPP has developed a website(www.adkinvasives.com) to dissemi-nate information identifying invasive

plant species, their current locationsand the problems they cause; toinform citizens about local monitor-ing efforts and additional regionalresources; and to provide landownerswith legal, effective options forinvasive plant management. APIPPweb pages for the aquatic invasiveplant project have been on-line sinceJanuary 2003. The web pages for theterrestrial invasive plant project willsoon be on-line.

ConclusionAlong with its partners and volun-teers, this program is a successbecause of the support received fromthe volunteers and continuedcollaboration from the involvementof new partners. The Adirondack ParkAgency will continue its efforts tomonitor, identify, and provideinformation to the public on invasiveaquatics plants. The program hasmomentum , continued support, andlooking to the future, has greatexpectations to successfully addressthis major threat to the Park’s ecology.


Below: The Invasive Plant TaskForce (from left to right)–BillBrown (Adirondack NatureConservancy), John Falge(DOT-Region 7), Ken Kogut(DEC-Region 5), CraigCheeseman (Adirondack NatureConservancy), Dan Spada(APA), Ed Frantz (DOT-region2), Sean Connin (APA), Dr.John Mills (President, PaulSmiths College).

Map flat files at the NYS Adirondack Park Agency. Today,

using GIS, map information is stored more efficiently on

the computer, can be accessed readily by the user, and

precisely overlaid with other map information to aid

decision-making.

The Adirondacks were once “lands unknown.” Explorer/cartog-

raphers like Verplanck Colvin and Seneca Ray Stoddard were some

of the first to chart the wilderness and provide a reference for

others to follow. In the spirit of these notable men, the Agency has

been committed to a high standard of quality map information

since its beginning. From the first mylar overlays used to create the

Adirondack Park Land Use and Development Plan Map to the

computerized Geographic Information Systems we use today, maps

have formed the basis of our guidance in regional land use plan-

ning.

a resource for the community


Left: John Barge and Sunita Halasz review amap from the Agency’s flat file library ofAdirondack Park maps.

When the concept of an Adirondack Park Agency began to take shape,

one of the most important considerations in creating a viable regional

planning agency was good maps. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the

staff of the Temporary Study Commission, and later the Agency,

assembled a collection of maps covering the entire Park. Much of the

information contained in the maps was based on first-hand knowledge

of the land. These maps provided the Agency with a detailed region-

wide perspective of the natural resources of the Park and their ability

to support varying levels of development. The group of individuals

that assembled these maps set a standard for high-quality map

information that continues today.

LAND USE ANDDEVELOPMENT PLAN MAPThose first maps, assembled by thepioneer staff, contained informationon different themes: sensitivebiological resources, terrain, existingdevelopment and communities. Eachmap theme was on its own sheet oftransparent plastic, and when all thesheets were combined together, itcreated a picture of where sensitiveresoures overlapped each other. Themore sensitive resources wereclassified as Rural Use and ResourceManagement and assigned lowerdevelopment densities. Where therewere fewer sensitive resources orexisting development, the area wasclassified as Hamlet, Moderate andLow Intensity and given a higherdevelopment density. This, then, ishow the Adirondack Park Land Useand Development Plan Map wascreated.

MAP STORAGE AT THE AGENCYThe first maps were rolled up andstored in “pigeon hole” racks whichmade organization and mappreservation difficult. It was a greatimprovement when the Agencyinstalled file drawers allowing themaps to be stored flat and organizedby quadrangle. Today most of ourmaps are available in digital form andare stored on computer servers.

EARLY INNOVATIVE PROJECTSThe Agency has been involved in anumber of innovative projects inpartnership with local governmentsand other State and federal agencies,including the Essex County ForestFeasibility Study which was aResource, Conservation and Develop-ment project with Essex County, theSoil Conservation Service, and theNYS College of EnvironmentalScience and Forestry. These groupsworked together to use available mapinformation to idenitfy lands with thehighest potential for timber harvest.

These projects and the partnershipsthat were developed helped to bringmapping in the Adirondacks to thelevel that exists today.

Sunita Halasz explains geographicinformation systems at the Agency toCornell University’s Hubert H. HumphryScholars from around the world.

It is an absolute privilege to be part ofthe Agency’s rich mapping legacy. WithGIS we are painting a digital picture ofthe Park that will be priceless for futuregenerations.

—SUNITA HALASZ, EnvironmentalProgram Specialist 1


Agency staff often refer to theland use and developmentplan map as the “APLUDPmap,” the colors of whichrepresent private and stateland use classifications. Thismap is the basis of all Agencyland use decisions.

geographic information systems

Information about getting a copy of theShared Geographic Information CD ROM isavailable on the Agency’s web page atwww.apa.state.ny.us.

Adirondack GIS Users Group atNovember 2003 meeting atPlattsburgh State University.

In the 1980s and ‘90s, the AdirondackPark Agency began using digital mapinformation, bringing theAdirondacks to the forefront ofmapping technology.

Earth Resource Data Analysis System(ERDAS) - The First GIS. TheAdirondack Park Agency was the firstworkplace installation of the GISsoftware, ERDAS, in the world. Therewas one installation of ERDAS priorto the Agency’s, for educational use atthe University of Georgia inAthens. ERDAS is software that isused to analyze vegetation cover typesfrom satellite imagery. In 1979-1981,the Agency worked with ERDAS toprepare a forest cover map and detectchanges in the forest over time. Theresults of that project were presentedin a paper co-authored by Ray Curranand John Banta and presented at aNASA conference in 1982.

Lookup System. As any new GIS userknows, the learning curve is steep.Digital map information is sovaluable, however, it was imperativeto make it available to all Agency staff.With the help of the resources of theCenter for Technology inGovernment, Agency staff solved theproblem by developing an easy-to-useGIS Lookup System available througheach staff member’s desktopcomputer. It is used daily at theAgency and is directly responsible forthe reduced time it takes to get ajurisdictional determination, issue apermit or resolve an enforcementmatter.

Internet Mapping Service. The Agencydeveloped a web GIS application inArcIMS (Internet Map Server)allowing individuals all over theworld to access the Park-wide APALand Classification data layercompiled from this project. The webaddress of this site iswww.maphost.com/adirondacks. Avariety of Adirondack stakeholders,including realtors, lawyers, andsurveyors, have said that the site isvery useful. The website is one of foursites featured on New York State’sWeb Banner “Map-NY” button.

Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)-funded projects. Since 1995, theAdirondack Park Agency has receivedgrants from the EPA’s State WetlandsProtection Program to create digitalmaps of wetlands and watersheds at ascale of 1:24,000. Through thisprogram, over 70% of the Park hasbeen digitally mapped up to thispoint. The data has been used to aidin project review, to help landownersunderstand their property better, andfor numerous scientific studies atlocal universities.

Shared Adirondack Park GeographicInformation CD-ROM. In 2001,Agency staff realized that the volumeof digital data available from theAgency had reached a point where itcould be compiled into one largedigital library for ease of distribution.Thus was born the Shared AdirondackPark Geographic Information CD-ROM. This two-CD set contains over50 geographic natural and cultural

resource data layers from eleven Stateand federal agencies. Since its releasein July 2001, the Agency hasdistributed over 500 copies of theShared GIS CD. Much of the highstart-up cost of a GIS originates withdata development. The Shared GISCD gives new users, especially localgovernments with financialchallenges, the advantage of aninstant, comprehensive database forthe Park. Feedback from users hasbeen extremely positive andenthusiastic.

Adirondack GIS Users Group. Thecreation of the Shared GIS CD hadmany benefits. In addition to servingas a focal point of GIS trainingsessions, it has led to the creation ofthe Adirondack GIS Users Group(www.adkgis.org), a partnership ofState, local, not-for-profit, and for-profit organizations. The AdirondackGIS Users Group is a forum forsharing data, providing assistance/training, sharing new researchprojects and ideas, and keeping thePark’s GIS community updated. In2002, the group held trainingworkshops for DEC Forest Preserveplanners, local code enforcementofficers, and at Local GovernmentDay and the Adirondack ResearchConsortium meetings. In 2003, thegroup held meetings to discuss GIS innatural resource planning, emergencymanagement, tourism promotion,and K-12 education. Another meetingis planned for March 2004 specificallyfocused on GIS applications for localgovernments.

IMPROVING PERMIT TIMELINESS, reducing the enforcement case

backlog, and improving internal and external communications are the

three management priorities driven by the Agency’s Strategic Plan. The

day-to-day work of the Agency’s divisions is geared toward accomplish-

ing these objectives and is described in the next section. Organizationally,

this work is the foundation of the Agency’s ability to carry out its mis-

sion and provide the opportunity to pursue the partnerships and

collaborations described in the previous section.


foundations—reflections on 2003

From the Governor 19 About the Board 20 30th Anniversary Celebration 22 Regulatory

Programs 24 Legal 24 Resource Analysis 25 Park Planning 25 Local Government 26

Interpretive Programs 27 Economic 27 Administration 28 Agency Budget 28 Workload

Statistics 28 Changing Faces 29 Strategic Plan Update 29 Agency Awards 30 Earth

Day Awards 30 Building Renovations 30 Agency Web Site 30 Adirondack Park

Institute 31 Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board 31 Staff Roster 32

[foundations] table of contents


Dear Friends:

What an honor it was for me to keynote the 30th Anniversary Conference

on the Adirondack Park Land Use and Development Plan in Lake Placid

last October. The conference focused on the themes of environment,

economy, and people of the Park. It also gave us an opportunity to salute

three great friends - Clarence Petty, John Dillon and Ron Stafford – for

their life-long contributions and dedication to the Park’s resources and

the people.

While the conference reflected on the past, we also looked forward thirty

years into the future. I have asked Chairman Whaley to lead the Agency

in its deliberations of these ideas to develop a series of recommendations

for future opportunities which make the most sense for moving forward.

I look forward to learning of the Agency’s progress on this initiative.

The positive atmosphere of mutual respect and dialogue is evidence of

collaboration between government and those who care about the Park.

This evidence certainly reinforces that we are on the right track in the

management of the Park’s resources. I hope all share in my commitment

to continue the positive momentum as we look to the future, a future

that I see as very bright.

Sincerely,

George E. Pataki

from the governor


Ross S. Whaley was appointedChairman of the Agency onSeptember 16, 2003. Dr. Whaley isthe past president of the SUNYCollege of Environmental Scienceand Forestry in Syracuse andpreviously served as an economistwith the U.S. Forest Service.

James C. Frenette retired from theAgency in May of 2003. He wasfirst appointed in July of 1992 andserved the Agency in a variety ofpositions and committee chair-manships. In December of 2002,Governor Pataki named JimChairman on an interim basis, apost he held until his retirement.Jim will be remembered for hislove of his home town of TupperLake and his tireless advocacy forthe Park’s residents and localgovernments.

James T. Townsend was appointedby Governor Pataki as Chairmanon an interim basis from Maythrough September of 2003. Jimwas first appointed to the Boardin June of 1999. He has served theAgency in a variety of capacitiesincluding leading the Agency’songoing rule revision process. Jimenjoys his second home in NorthRiver at every occasion and is an“Adirondack 46er.”

about the board


Cecil WrayNew York County

Erin Crotty, CommissionerDepartment of EnvironmentalConservation

Charles Gargano, CommissionerDepartment of EconomicDevelopment

Frank MezzanoHamilton County

Deanne RehmWarren County

Katherine O. RobertsPutnam County

James T. TownsendMonroe County

William KisselEssex County

Randy DanielsSecretary of State

ReconfirmationsThe Agency was pleased in2003 that Governor Pataki reappointed, andthe Senate confirmed, the following AgencyMembers to new terms:

Cecil Wray, New York County,term expires 6/30/06

Deanne Rehm, Warren County,term expires 6/30/07

The Agency Board: Standing left to right:Commissioner James T. Townsend, Commis-sioner Cecil Wray, Commissioner FrankMezzano, DEC Designee Stuart Buchanan.Seated left to right: Commissioner WilliamKissel, Commissioner Katherine O. Roberts,Chairman Dr. Ross S. Whaley, CommissionerDeanne Rehm, and DED Designee RandallC. Beach. DOS Designee Richard L. Hoffmanis missing from the photo. Photo taken February2004.


C. Randall Beach, DesigneeDepartment of Economic Development

Stuart Buchanan, DesigneeDepartment of EnvironmentalConservation

Richard L. Hoffman, DesigneeDepartment of State

Dear Friends:

I am pleased to share the Adirondack Park Agency’s2003 Annual Report. In it, we feature some greatstories of successful projects fostered by Agencyinitiative and implemented through collaborationsand partnerships to accomplish wonderful things forthe Adirondack Park. You will learn about theseprojects, the inspiration behind them, and thepeople that made them successful.

It was certainly a busy and successful year by allmeasures as the Agency continued to make progresson its strategic plan. The Agency also embarked onan ambitious renovation of its Ray Brook Headquar-ters which will make us accessible to people of allabilities and improve services to the public.

The year was highlighted by the celebration of the30th anniversary of the Adirondack Park AgencyAct. Many great ideas were generated and friend-ships renewed.

It was a pleasure for me to be part of this historicyear and I look forward to the opportunities we seein 2004 and beyond.

Sincerely,

Daniel T. Fitts, Executive Director

Dear Friends:

First of all, let me thank Jim Frenette and JimTownsend for serving the Agency as InterimChairmen for most of 2003. Through their indi-vidual styles and talents, each provided caring andinnovative leadership to the agency and its steward-ship mission. We thank them.

I was certainly honored to be asked by GovernorPataki to serve as Adirondack Park Agency Chair-man. As I have stated to many of you, my threegoals as Chairman are: to obey the law, to treatpeople with courtesy and respect, and to worktoward making the Adirondack Park a model forsustainable development worldwide. At best, thismodel will include protected natural environments,viable communities and vital economies.

As we look back over the past thirty years, it isgratifying to see where the Agency stands today. Thepast leadership at the Agency has certainly left us ina very good position to accomplish our importantmission. It is now our responsibility to build on thatlegacy and work towards the Adirondack Parkcontinuing to be that special place envisioned by thepeople of the State in general as well as the residentsof the Park.

I am excited about the future and what it holds forus all. I feel very fortunate to be part of it and ameager to move on to the next chapter of the Park’sstory.

Sincerely,

Ross S. Whaley, Chairman


3 0 T H A N N I V E R S A RYC E L E B R AT I O N(May 22-1973 – May 22, 2003)The Agency marked the 30th Anniversaryof the Adirondack Park Agency Act with ayear-long celebration which reflected onthe first 30 years of its implementationand focused on looking forward 30 yearsinto the future.

The celebration kicked off in May withformer Executive Director Dick Persicospeaking to the Agency about hisexperiences with respect to drafting theoriginal legislation. The fascinating pieceof history contained in his remarks can befound on the Agency’s web page atwww.apa.state.ny.us.

Dick’s rich historical perspectives wereshared with the Agency’s newer staff at aretreat in the summer, graciously held atthe property of Paul Dooling and SandyDanusi. In addition to sharing these per-spectives, Dr. Ross S. Whaley spoke to staffabout the importance of the AdirondackPark and the work of the Adirondack ParkAgency from the global perspective. Thisopportunity to share the Agency’s richhistory and the broader global perspectiveswas certainly a success by all measures.

The highlight of the celebration was a fallconference held in Lake Placid, New York,which was sponsored by the GovernmentLaw Center at Albany Law School and theNew York State Bar Association Environ-mental Law Section. Governor Patakiaddressed the conference, declaring Octo-ber 2, 2003 Adirondack Park Day andrecognizing three special individuals fortheir contributions to the AdirondackPark. Clarence Petty was recognized for hiscontributions to the environment. In hisacceptance, Clarence spoke of the ForestPreserve as being the “engine” that drivesthe Adirondack Park.

John Dillon, Chairman and CEO of Inter-national Paper, was recognized for hiscontributions to the Park’s economy. Mr.Dillon talked about the importance ofsustainable forests. Finally, GovernorPataki recognized Senator Ron Stafford forhis tireless advocacy on behalf of thepeople of the Park. Senator Stafford urgedpeople to “listen” to each other.

The conference featured the APA Act itselfwith expert individual and panel presenta-tions that focused on how the Actrelates to the conference themes of“people, economy and the environment.”More details on these presentations can befound on the Agency’s web page.

This was a very successful conference.Those in attendance came away with anunderstanding that a very clear spirit ofcollaboration exists amongst all stakehold-ers. Attendees were united in a clear callfor more collaboration on AdirondackPark issues. The Agency listened to a num-ber of very useful ideas for regulatory andlegislative changes. These ideas could po-tentially improve the way in which theAgency does business.

Overall, the Agency’s 30th Anniversarycelebration was a success. All involved hadopportunity to share in the Agency’s richhistory and offer ideas for its future. SinceOctober, the executive staff has diligentlyreviewed presentation materials and notesin an effort to develop a series of actionitems which the Agency committees willwork on in 2004.

From left: Clarence Petty withGovernor Pataki at the 30thAnniversary Conference at LakePlacid; Retired State SenatorRonald B. Stafford with GovernorPataki at the 30th AnniversaryConference at Lake Placid; JohnDillon, retired Chairman andChief Executive Officer ofInternational Paper, with GovernorPataki at the 30th AnniversaryConference at Lake Placid; DickPersico shares his historicalperspectives on the drafting of theAPA Act at an Agency Meeting atthe Paul Smiths VIC.

Chairman Ross Whaley with Paul Doolingspeaking at staff retreat at Windfall Pond.


Legal staff in the Jurisdictional

Inquiry Office at the Agency

received 1,021 formal written

inquiries in 2003, and almost

7,400 informal phone contacts.

R E G U L ATO RY P RO G R A M SThe Regulatory Programs Division is re-sponsible for the review, recommendation,and determination of all project permitapplications subject to Agency jurisdiction.This division considered a diverse varietyof regional projects during the year in-cluding subdivision of land, major publicutility uses, industrial uses, commercialuses, forestry uses, public and semi-publicbuildings and single family dwellings. TheDivision also considered State agencyprojects and projects involving wetlandsand shoreline restriction variances.

In 2003, 304 applications were receivedand 323 permits, orders and varianceswere issued. Most of the applications re-ceived came from Essex, Warren andFranklin counties.

Examples of important or interestingprojects reviewed and acted upon by theAgency this year include the following:

The Agency denied a wetlands permit tothe Lake George Park Commission andOffice of General Services for a demon-stration project for control of Eurasianwater milfoil involving application of theaquatic herbicide SONAR in selected sitesin Lake George. This decision was basedon the lack of any clear consensus by sci-entific experts who testified during thepublic hearing process.

In the Town of North Elba, the Henry andMildred Uihlein Foundation and CornellUniversity were granted approval for theUihlein Foundation to convey a 592±-acreparcel of land known as Heaven Hill Farmto National Sports Academy (NSA). NSAproposes to relocate its school campus tothis site.

L E G A LThe Agency’s four staff attorneys, Counseland Associate Counsel continue to providelegal services and advice for all aspects ofthe Agency’s business. The Division alsomanaged a number of matters involvinglitigation.

The public’s first point of contact with theAgency is often a letter or phone callhandled by Legal staff in the JurisdictionalInquiry Office at the Agency. The Agencyreceived 1,021 formal written inquiries in2003, and almost 7,400 informal phonecontacts. With the support of Agency GIStechnology and RASS staff assistance withwetland questions, written response timesin 2003 generally averaged six days.

Regulatory revision continued to advancea next round of regulatory updates in-tended to improve the clarity andconsistency of the Agency’s Rules andRegulations. Specific proposals are ex-pected to move forward for publicdiscussion and review in 2004.

The first goal of the Enforcement Office isto prevent violations through public edu-cation and close coordination with localmunicipal officials. Where violations haveoccurred, the four enforcement officers areresponsible for the identification and reso-lution of violations, with the primaryobjective of requiring the repair of envi-ronmental damage and bringing projectsites into compliance with regulatory stan-dards. In 2003, 246 potential violationswere reported and 330 enforcement caseswere resolved. A total of 770 old enforce-ment cases were closed administratively.

In the Town of Chesterfield, the EssexCounty IDA/Town of Chesterfield weregranted approval for the ChesterfieldCommerce Park Phase I, a large-scaleplanned development for new industrialand commercial uses.

NYS Department of Environmental Con-servation received a permit for anintegrated, long-term sea lamprey controlprogram for Lake Champlain includingthe treatment of six rivers/streams andfour deltas in the Adirondack Park.

In Newcomb, the Open Space Conser-vancy Inc. (OSC) and NL Industries Inc.were granted a permit for a two-phase,large-scale project. The first phase involvedthe subdivision of an 11,273-acre tract ofland by NL Industries to convey 9,646acres of land to OSC and retain 1,627 acresof land around its former mining complex.The second phase will involve the subdivi-sion of the 9,646 acres into a 6,300±-acrelot to be conveyed to the State for inclu-sion in the Forest Preserve, a 2,900±-acrelot to be privately held for sustainableforestry purposes, a 100- to 400-acre lotsurrounding structures associated with theformer settlement of Adirondac to be pri-vately held, and a 50±-acre parcelcontaining a preexisting house to be pri-vately held. Agency approval was grantedonly for the first phase at this time.

The NYS Department of EnvironmentalConservation/Fort Ticonderoga Associa-tion received a permit to reconstruct andexpand an existing boat launch facility onLake Champlain. The project includes anew overflow parking lot, a sanitarypump-out, expanded parking area, andreplacement of the existing seawall andlaunch ramp.

Left: Jim Connolly and MarkSengenberger at the30th AnniversaryConference at Lake Placid; Center:Colleen Parker and MarkSengenberger at Ray BrookHeadquarters; Right: Ariel Diggoryintroduces the new Paul Smiths VICTrail Map to the Agency at RayBrook.


PA R K P L A N N I N GSignificant initiatives undertaken in 2003include:

Scenic Byway Project ImplementationDuring the year 2003, the Agency madecontinued progress on the implementationof its numerous scenic byway projects inthe Park. Over the past several years, theAgency has been awarded some $2 millionin scenic byway funds for fourteen projectspursuant to the Federal TransportationEquity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21).

Two of the Agency’s scenic byway projectswere successfully completed in 2003. Theseinclude:

• Northwest Foothills InterpretiveGuidebook, the first of two modelvisitor guides for the NYS Route 3Olympic Trail Scenic Byway;

• Upper Hudson River InterpretiveExhibits, Town of Johnsburg, anintegrated series of roadside exhibitsbetween North Creek and North Riverdesigned to interpret the history andimportance of the Hudson River.

Additionally, work is well underway onseveral other projects. A detailed inventoryand assessment of Route 73 trailheadparking area safety issues and problemswas completed in 2003 which will, in 2004,be followed by the implementation ofstructural and non-structuralimprovements. The Hamlet VisitorImprovements and Marcy FieldInterpretive and Recreational FacilityImprovements projects in the Town of

While providing assistance

internally to other divisions

within the Agency, RASS staff

are continually involved in

sharing information with

citizens, researchers and

organizations in the Park.

R E S O U RC E A NA LY S I SIn 2003, the Agency’s Resource Analysisand Scientific Services (RASS) Divisioncontinued to provide excellent oversight tothe technical and scientific activities of theAgency. With its varied qualifications andareas of expertise, staff assisted in educa-tional endeavors and contributed toAgency progress in all program areas in-cluding the implementation of theStrategic Plan.

Project ReviewStaff assisted in the review of more than adozen complex projects which involvedmultiple areas of expertise. Examplesinclude NYCO Minerals, DiamondSportsmen’s Club, Lake George stormwater treatment, the use of Sonar in LakeGeorge, and the National Sports AcademyCampus. Staff also assisted in developingwritten advice, general permits and bestmanagement practices. RASS staff workedon more than 372 active projects in 2003,up 50% from 2002.

Education and OutreachWhile providing assistance internally toother divisions within the Agency, RASSstaff are continually involved in sharinginformation with citizens, researchers andorganizations in the Park. Some of these

activities include continued work with theAquatic Invasives Program, the Geo-graphic Information Systems (GIS) UsersGroup, and support to the interpretiveprograms:

Wetland DelineationsProviding accurate and expedient wetlandsdelineations for landowners is a priorityRASS function. In 2003, staff conducted267 timely field trips to delineate wetlands.

Beyond the environmental and publichealth benefits of wetland protection thispublic service has inestimable Agencypublic outreach benefits. The wetlandsdelineator is often the first Agency repre-sentative that people actually meet.During these visits citizens are providedrelevant information about Agency regula-tions and permitting, as well as the crucialrole wetlands serve in environmental pro-tection.

Federal EPA Wetland Protection GrantIn 2003, the Agency was awarded$179,000 grant for a project entitled “ABio-Assessment Method for the Ausable-Boquet Watersheds.” This grant enabledthe Agency to develop new mapped wet-lands, watersheds and detailed soilsinformation which will be vital to theprotection of the Ausable-Boquet water-shed. This project will yield valuableresource protection information withrespect to this river corridor and the LakeChamplain Valley.

Left: Joe Martens, President of the Open SpaceInstitute, speaks to the Agency at the NewcombTown Park. Rick Weber is pictured in thebackground; Right: Chairman Whaleyintroduces himself to “Charleston” at the Townof Newcomb Town Park.

Henry Savarie and Sue Parker at the 30thAnniversary Conference at Lake Placid


The Agency consulted with

DEC on 22 proposals for the

development of access

opportunities for persons with

disabilities.

LO C A L G OV E R N M E N TLocal land use decisions impact theAdirondack economy and environment asmuch as the Agency’s work. In this sense,the task of land use management is ashared responsibility, with the Agencylearning from the experience of communi-ties about many vital community issues.Local Government Services continued toprovide support to and learn fromAdirondack communities during 2003.

The Agency heard presentations on com-prehensive plans by Bolton, Lake George,North Elba, Hague, Chester and Inlet.

The Agency began work with the Town ofChester on a local land use plan whichgoes before the Agency for approval in2004.

In an effort to promote education andunderstanding of Agency programs andlocal perspectives on issues, the Agencyparticipated in a number of popular out-reach programs including LocalGovernment Day and co-sponsored work-shops with the Department of State.

The Agency also continued its very popu-lar “APA 101” which explains the basics ofAPA jurisdiction to local government offi-cials, real estate marketers, bankers, andother interested public.

Keene are also moving closer toimplementation; both are expected to becomplete by the end of 2004. Constructionof the new town highway garage, part ofthe Marcy Field project, was initiated inthe Fall of 2003; the garage is expected tobe complete in March 2004.

Adirondack Park Land Useand Development Plan MapThe Planning Division has theresponsibility for maintaining and keepingup to date the official Adirondack ParkLand Use and Development Plan Map. In2003, the Agency printed the 30thAnniversary edition of the AdirondackPark Land Use and Development PlanMap.

Adirondack Park Shaded Relief MapThe Planning Division took the lead ondeveloping a topographic relief map of thePark that will be used by the AdirondackPark Institute as a fundraising tool to helpsupport educational programs at the VICs.

Records ManagementPlanning staff supervise the Agency’srecords management program. In additionto participating in the Northern New YorkRecords Management Group, staffcontinues to oversee the conversion ofAgency paper records to microfilm andCD, coordinate storage of Agency records,direct the electronic transfer of recordsand implement the Agency’s new recordsarchive.

State LandsThe Agency is working with the NYSDepartment of EnvironmentalConservation on an initiative to completeall outstanding unit management planswithin the Adirondack Park. The processrequires an analysis of an area’s resourcesand public use to develop managementactions which protect the wild character ofthe Forest Preserve while providingappropriate public recreationalopportunities. Highlights of the Agency’swork in 2003 include:

• Approval of the Bog River Complex,Dix Mountain and Giant MountainWilderness Unit Management Plans

• Several unit management plan andcampground amendments

• The development and adoption of anAPA/DEC Memorandum ofUnderstanding regarding theimplementation of the State LandMaster Plan

In addition, the Agency consulted with theDepartment on proposed project activitiesfor 43 distinct units and 22 proposals forthe development of access opportunitiesfor persons with disabilities.

Left: (in the foreground, left to right)Commissioners Deanne Rehm, FrankMezzano and Jim Townsend at the HamiltonCounty Outreach in the Town of Webb; Center:George Canon (AATV) leads discussion onLocal Government Day; Right: John Quinn,Henry Savarie and Dan Fitts planting a whitespruce tree, in honor of the late John Stock,Agency Member from 1973 to 1987.

Dan Spada at work doing what he does best.


Let’s hear it for the volunteers,

without them we would not be

as successful! In 2003, 3,346

volunteer hours were donated at

the Paul Smiths VIC and 852 at

the Newcomb VIC.

E C O N O M I CIn 2003, the Agency continued to work inpartnership toward the goal of building asustainable economy throughout theAdirondack Park. During the year, theAgency’s Economic Services Unit served asa planning resource for communities in-terested in economic improvement and toproject sponsors seeking informationabout the Agency’s regulatory programs.There has been ongoing consultation be-tween staff, elected officials and economicdevelopers on creating sustainable eco-nomic development strategies in manyPark communities. The Economic Ser-vices Unit worked diligently with projectsponsors ensuring that business develop-ment proposals are consistent with thesestrategies.

The Agency’s Economic Affairs Committeecontinued to build understanding of thedynamics of the region’s economy by fo-cusing in 2003 on tourism and itsrelationship to the retail and service sec-tors and on regional agriculture. Inaddition, the Committee discussed thepotential long term impact of climatechange on the Park’s economy and localgovernments as well as the topic of howeconomic and fiscal impact issues are con-sidered in the course of project review.

I N T E R P R E T I V E P RO G RA M SThe year 2003 was another productive yearat the two Adirondack Park Agency VisitorInterpretive Centers (VICs), located inPaul Smiths and Newcomb. The Interpre-tive Programs Division solidified itspartnership with the Adirondack commu-nity as the VICs continued to provideexcellent service to more than 97,000 visi-tors.

AccomplishmentsVIC staff completed the first-ever StrategicPlan for the Interpretive Programs Divi-sion. The Division also developedmanagement plans for VIC properties andset management goals for 2003-04. Fi-nally, a program evaluation system wasdeveloped and used as the basis for inter-pretive program offerings for the comingyear at both centers.

On May 3, the Newcomb VIC hosted the“Celebration of the Life of R. W. Sage, Jr.”and formally dedicated a future trailnamed in his memory which will begin tobe constructed in 2004 and will connectthe VIC with the Santanoni historic area inthe future.

The Paul Smiths VIC dedicated the newWhispering Pines Amphitheater on June10 with the Salmon River ElementarySchool students who named the structure;celebrated the 10th anniversary of theNative Species Butterfly House on July 19;and opened about 2 miles of newbackcountry trails on September 12.

The Division took the lead in the forma-tion of the Adirondack CollaborativeEcological Educators (ACEE), which in-cludes the Agency, Natural HistoryMuseum of the Adirondacks, AdirondackMountain Club, Wildlife ConservationSociety and SUNY College of Environ-mental Science and Forestry. The group’spurpose is to foster cooperation betweengroup members to improve the efforts ofall.

Let’s hear it for the volunteers, withoutthem we would not be as successful! TheVIC volunteers assist in many areas bothon and off the Centers’ properties. In2003, 3,346 volunteer hours were donatedat Paul Smiths, and 852 at Newcomb. Inaddition, inmate crews from the Depart-ment of Correctional Services facilities atCamp Gabriels in Brighton and theMoriah Shock Camp provided invaluableassistance to maintenance staff at bothfacilities, including 4,600 hours at PaulSmiths.

Longtime volunteer trail guide RichardFinegan passed away on December 27,2003. His easy manner, subtle humor andunderstanding of the ways of the woodsmade him a favorite with visitors who hadthe pleasure of his company on the PaulSmiths VIC trails. His memory will live inour hearts.

Left: Brenda Sage, Dan Fitts,George Canon, Supervisor, Town ofNewcomb and Bill Porter, Directorof ESF’s Adirondack EcologicalStation in Newcomb at the DickSage Memorial Trail Dedicationheld at the Newcomb VIC; Center:Dan Fitts, Paul Smiths CollegePresident George Miller, ChairmanJim Townsend, and Paul SmithsFacility Manager Mike Brennan atthe dedication of the newbackcountry trail system at the PaulSmiths VIC; Right: Ariel Diggory,Naturalist at the Paul Smiths VIC,stands on the front walk of thePaul Smiths VIC after the heavysnow storms in December 2003.

A D M I N I S T R AT I O NThe Agency’s Administrative Unit is re-sponsible for all budgeting, personnel, andthe building’s physical upkeep and mainte-nance. In addition to all daily mattersrelated to the operation of a $4 millionNew York State agency with three facilities,59 permanent employees, and several sea-sonal staff, the Administrative Unitcontinues work on several significant ini-tiatives. These include overseeing thehealth and safety issues, reasonable access-related improvements to the Agency’sheadquarters located in Ray Brook, theever-increasing use of computer technolo-gies in all Agency functions, andmonitoring all U.S. Environmental Protec-tion Agency and NYS Scenic Bywaysfunded projects.

AG E N C Y BU D G E TThe Adirondack Park Agency operatesthree facilities: its headquarters in RayBrook and the two Visitor InterpretiveCenters in Paul Smiths, Franklin County,and Newcomb, Essex County. In additionto the funds necessary to operate thesefacilities and pay its staff, the Agency’sbudget contains a $50,000 appropriationfor the ongoing operation of theAdirondack Park Local Government Re-view Board.

WO R K LOA D S TAT I S T I C S

Project Review TotalApplications received ...................................... 304Permits issued .................................................. 323

Jurisdictional Inquiry Office Total InquiriesWritten jurisdictional inquiries ...................... 1,021 received, 1,019 responded to,

12-day average responseTelephone inquiries ......................................... 7,321Wetland delineations ....................................... 268 completed in an average of

6 days after requestEnforcement cases ........................................... 246 potential violations reported, 330

resolved, 770 closed administratively

Map Amendments Total AmendmentsTechnical .......................................................... 9 amendments

(22 areas totaling 739.3 acres)Landowner ....................................................... 1 amendment denied (165 acres)

Visitor Interpretive Centers (VIC) Total VisitorsPaul Smiths Visitors ......................................... 74,699Newcomb Visitors ............................................ 22,600

VIC On-site Programs–Group/School Total AttendancePaul Smiths ...................................................... 23,021Newcomb ......................................................... 4,770

VIC–Outreach Programs Total AttendancePaul Smiths ...................................................... 559Newcomb ......................................................... 1,849

Appropriated Funds 2003-2004Total Operating Funds:$4,177,000

Local GovernmentReview Board:$50,000

Staffing Level for 2003:59 permanent staff

The Agency’s budget further contains au-thorization to receive funds from the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency forongoing wetland characterization projectsin the Park’s major river basins, and ScenicByway Funds, both described herein. Inaddition, the Agency receives funding fortwo Green Thumb staff at the Ray Brookoffices.

Left: Governor Pataki with Newcomb VICFacility Manager Rynda McCray at the 30th

Anniversary Conference at Lake Placid; Center:Alexia Hain stands on rubble from an earlyphase of Ray Brook Headquarters renovations;Right: The entrance to the newly renovated RayBrook Headquarters.

Jim Hotaling addresses the AgencyBoard upon the occasion of hisretirement

S T R AT E G I C P L A N U P DAT EThe Agency continues to make progressand find improvement in its Strategic Planthrough three specific management priori-ties: improve permit timeliness, reducethe enforcement backlog, and improveinternal and external communications.

With respect to permit timeliness, Regula-tory Programs staff continue to look forimprovement in management strategiesand procedures while improving the qual-ity of the documents and forms which areused in the project review process. TheRegulatory Programs Division is develop-ing a library of information and guidelinesto streamline the permit process. This willensure that sound environmental protec-tion coincides with timely permit review.These and other improvements are part ofan ongoing effort to constantly evaluatethe permit issuance process and seek thebest way to get the job done.

Progress was also made with respect to theenforcement backlog. As of December2003, 375 enforcement cases are open - adrastic reduction in case load over thatreported only a few short years ago. Thishas been accomplished by examining allaspects of the enforcement process andfinding ways to resolve matters whichserve the Agency’s enforcement mandateswith respect to resource protection andresponsibilities and expectations of thepublic involved.

The internal and external goals of theAgency are rooted in a clear desire to pro-vide a better understanding of the processand procedures of the Agency to the public

while endeavoring to better understandthe perception and needs of the public thatthe Agency serves. This goal was high-lighted in the early stages of a WorkforceTraining Grant funded through theGovernor’s Office of Employee Relations.It provided opportunity for focus groupsto provide input on the Agency’s commu-nication needs and identified specifictraining opportunities to address them.Several initiatives designed to accomplishthis were launched in 2003. These include:

• internal staff training in such areas aswriting skills and customer service;

• the development of a comprehensivepublic outreach plan to more systemati-cally provide information and sharetechnical training with the public, to belaunched in 2004;

• development of a local governmentservices pilot project designed to take ahard look at the Agency’s local govern-ment program and developrecommendations for improvement.

C H A N G I N G FAC E SJim Hotaling, Chief of Local GovernmentServices, retired in March of 2003. Jimestablished a strong working relationshipwith Adirondack Park communities andwas a leader on local planning issues bothin the Park and with a number of Stateand national organizations. Jim will beremembered for many things including his“matrix” approach to problem solving andwill certainly be missed.

Victoria Hristovski, Public InformationDirector, and Sean Connin, FreshwaterResource Analyst, both left the Agency in2003 to pursue new and exciting opportu-nities that developed in their personallives.

Keith McKeever joined the Agency as Pub-lic Information Director. Keith comes tothe Agency from the Governor’s Office ofSmall Cities where he assisted local gov-ernments in implementing communitydevelopment block grant projects aroundthe State. Keith holds a degree in Environ-mental Science from Plattsburgh StateUniversity and will be assisting the Agencywith public information and local govern-ment projects.

The Newcomb VIC welcomed Mary Tisi toits seasonal staff in March. Mary loves theoutdoors and learning new informationevery day. She and her husband, Mike, livein Newcomb.

Left: Sean Connin and VictoriaHristovski bid Dan Fitts and theAdirondack Park Agency farewellat a going away party in LakePlacid; Center: Joann Reed of JSREnterprises works with Agency staffon the development of a publicoutreach training program at aretreat in Lake Placid; Right:Chairman Whaley welcomes PublicInformation Officer KeithMcKeever.


After nearly two years of work,

the Agency launched its new and

improved web site in June. The

new site features a host of

information assets targeted to

both general and specific users.

Use of the site has doubled to

some 40,000 visits per month.

Check it out at

www.apa.state.ny.us

AG E N C Y AWA R D SAn important aspect of accomplishing agreat deal of work is celebrating success.In this spirit, the Agency presented severalawards and recognitions throughout theyear. Some of the highlights of theseawards are listed below.

The Agency recognized DOT Region 7Director Carey Babyak and his Region 7staff led by Beth Thesier for the fabricationof new Adirondack Park entrance signs.The Park is truly enhanced by this goodwork.

The Adirondack Park Local GovernmentReview Board formally recognized pastBoard Member and Chairman JimFrenette as “Communicator of the Year”and Henry Savarie, Senior Natural Re-source Planner in the Planning Division,with the “APA Professionalism Award” attheir annual awards meeting held in LongLake.

The Agency’s secretarial staff were hon-ored for their hard work onAdministrative Professionals Day. Theyare: Debbie Lester, Sue Van Wormer, MaryReardon, Pat Kimpton, Nancy Heath,Bettijane Forrester, Tracy Frechette,Theresa LeBaron, Laurie Bullis, JoanneMacDowell and Kathy Jennings.

E A RT H DAY AWA R D SEarth Day Awards were presented byChairman Jim Frenette to Lloyd Moore,Chairman, Adirondack Park Local Gov-ernment Review Board; George Canon,Supervisor, Town of Newcomb; DickLefebvre, retired board member andAgency Chairman; Chris Westbrook, Presi-dent, Clifton/Fine Economic DevelopmentCorporation and Director, ESF RangerSchool in Wanakena; Hilary Oles, InvasivePlant Program.

Past Agency board member and TupperLake native, John Stock, was honored forhis many accomplishments at the Agencywith the planting of a memorial tree onArbor Day. This tree will become part ofthe Agency’s new “Adirondack Arboretum”on its Ray Brook Headquarters grounds.

Jim Frenette and Jim Townsend were rec-ognized and saluted by the Agency forserving as Agency Chairmen in the interimperiod between the retirement of DickLefebvre in 2002 and the appointment ofDr. Ross S. Whaley in September 2003.

Sue Beck and Joan Payne of AdirondackDiscovery, were recognized for their finework in educational programming andwishing Joan well in her retirement.

BU I L D I N G R E N OVAT I O N SIn 2003, the Agency celebrated the 50thbirthday of the old log cabin in Ray Brookthat is the Agency’s headquarters.

Renovations to the headquarters began inMarch. The project includes a new 100-person conference room and lobby areawith an elevator, new entrance ramp andbathrooms, which will make the Agencyfully accessible to people of all abilities. Anew stand-alone garage, to be known asthe George R. Farrell Maintenance Center,will house all automotive, woodworkingand maintenance activities and will correctlong-standing health and safety issues.Finally, the project will address buildingcode issues, outdoor landscaping includingthe new Adirondack Arboretum, and pro-vide opportunity for office spacereorganization. Anticipated projectcompletion is February 2004.

N E W AG E N C Y W E B S I T E

www.apa.state.ny.usAfter nearly two years of work, the Agencylaunched its new and improved web site inJune. The new site features a host of infor-mation assets targeted to both general andspecific users. Visitors to the site will findit easier to access information, forms,maps, documents, and other materials andgain access to a number of related sites.Since its launch in June, visits to the sitehave doubled, averaging 40,000/month.

Left: (from left) Joe Rota and Frank Mezzanopictured with 2003 Earth Day Awardees,Lloyd Moore, George Canon, Dick Lefebvre,and Chris Westbook. Chairman Frenette ispictured far right; Right: Construction workersprepare foundation for new conference room atRay Brook headquarters.


The Adirondack Park Institute’s

mission is to give children and

their parents tools to answer

their own questions and learn

how to think about caring for

the environment around them.

A D I RO N DAC K PA R K I N S T I T U T EThe Adirondack Park Institute, Inc. (API)is a New York State not-for-profit501(c)(3) charitable organization. It wasfounded in 1989 by a statewide constitu-ency of private citizens interested inraising money to provide environmentallyfocused educational curricula and re-sources to our communities through theVICs.

API is the private funding vehicle for pro-gram development and resourceenhancement at both the VICs. The fund-ing comes from two principal sources: thegeneral public in the form of API member-ships and donations, and grants fromcorporate sponsors and foundations.

The API’s mission is to give children andtheir parents tools to answer their ownquestions and learn how to think aboutcaring for the environment around them.The API’s goal for the future is to continueto promote and facilitate funding for theever-changing and developing programsoffered at the VICs.

Officers and Executive DirectorPresident, Col. Robert C. Lilly, USAF (Re-tired); Secretary, Mary E. Lyle; Treasurer,Herman F. Cole, Jr. (stepped down fromthe Board in 2003); Assistant Treasurer,George H. Canon; Vice President, Devel-opment/Membership, Charles F.Monzeglio, Jr.; Executive Director, Linda J.Bennett

A D I RO N DAC K P A R K L O C A LG OV E R N M E N T R EV I E W B OA R DSection 803-a of the Adirondack ParkAgency Act provides for the establishmentof the Adirondack Park Local GovernmentReview Board. As provided by law, thepurpose of the Review Board is to adviseand assist the Agency in carrying out itsmission. The Agency enjoys a strong work-ing relationship with the Review Boardthrough open discussion and dialoguefocused on local government perspectives.

Agency Members and staff regularly attendthe Review Board meetings which are heldmonthly throughout the Adirondack Park.At the monthly Adirondack Park Agencymeetings, Review Board staff plays aprominent and active role in all delibera-tions. The Agency’s efforts to achievebalanced decision making are greatly en-hanced by this dialogue.

Left: Joe Rota, Lloyd Moore, andCarol Monroe at Adirondack ParkLocal Government Review BoardMeeting at Long Lake; Center:Henry Savarie and HenryEykelhoff confer on matters ofmutual interest at Adirondack ParkLocal Government Review BoardMeeting at Long Lake. At themeeting Henry Savarie wasawarded the 2003 APAProfessionalism Award by theReview Board; Right: ChairmanJim Frenette is presented the 2003Adirondack Park Citizens Awardby the Review Board

In keeping with his commitment to fostera strong working relationship with thecommunities of the Adirondack Park,Governor Pataki includes $50,000 in oper-ating funds for the Adirondack Park LocalGovernment Review Board in the Agency’sbudget.

Chairman and StaffChairman, Lloyd Moore, St. LawrenceCounty; Executive Director, Joseph T.Rota; Counsel, John C. McDonald; Secre-tary, Carol A. Monroe



AdministrationDaniel T. Fitts, Executive Director

Deborah A. Lester, Secretary to Executive Director

Stephen M. Erman, Special Assistant-Economic Affairs

Keith P. McKeever, Public Information Director

Judith A. Smith, Head Clerk

Robert P. Kreider, Sr. Computer Programmer/Analyst

Patrick R. Farrell, General Mechanic

Susan A. Carey, Calculations Clerk 2

Lauretta H. Bullis, Keyboard Specialist 1 (Receptionist)

Bettijane Forrester, Keyboard Specialist 1

Howard Baker, Green Thumb

Cheri Phillips, Green Thumb

Regulatory ProgramsMark E. Sengenberger, Deputy Director, Regulatory Programs

Holly E. Kneeshaw, Assistant Director, Regulatory Programs

Theresa A. LeBaron, Secretary 1

Tracy J. Frechette, Keyboard Specialist 1

John L. Quinn, Environmental Program Specialist 3

George V. Outcalt, Environmental Program Specialist 2

Colleen C. Parker, Environmental Program Specialist 2

Thomas E. Saehrig, Environmental Program Specialist 2

Michael P. Hannon, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Suzanne B. McSherry, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Virginia Yamrick, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Jennifer Carlo, Special Assistant

LegalJohn S. Banta, Counsel

Barbara A. Rottier, Associate Counsel

Mary L. Reardon, Keyboard Specialist 1

Susan Van Wormer, Keyboard Specialist 1

Ellen Egan George, Senior Attorney

Mitchell Goroski, Senior Attorney

Richard R. Terry, Senior Attorney

Paul Van Cott, Senior Attorney

Brian M. Ford, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Rita G. Quinn, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Leigh R. Walrath, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Susan H. Parker, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Donald D. Smith, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Edward S. Snizek, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Emily M. Tyner, Environmental Program Specialist 1

Resource Analysis & Scientific ServicesRaymond P. Curran, Supervisor, Natural Resource Analysis

Shaun LaLonde, Soil and Water Engineering Specialist

Brian F. Grisi, Associate Project Analyst, Forest Resources

Daniel M. Spada, Associate Project Analyst, Biological Resources

Mark Rooks, Biologist 1 (Ecology)

Sunita Halasz, Environmental Program Specialist 1

PlanningJames E. Connolly, Deputy Director, Planning

Edward J. Hood, Assistant Director, Planning

Patricia A. Kimpton, Secretary 1

Nancy M. Heath, Principal Clerk

Henry A. Savarie, Senior Natural Resource Planner

Richard E. Weber III, Supervisor, AP Regional Planning

John W. Barge, Mapping Technologist 2

Walter W. Linck, Project Assistant (State Land Planning)

Many thanks in the development of this reportfor the work of Mrs. Eleanor F. Brown ofSchenectady, New York and Ms. Kathi Tevlin ofIn the Woods Design Studio in Lake Placid, New York.

PHOTO CREDITS: photo of the Paul Smiths VisitorsInterpretive Center on facing page and images of Black PondOutlet on cover and page 17 by Andy Flynn.

staff roster

Paul SmithsMichael Brennan, Environmental Educator 3 (Facility Manager)

Milton B. Adams, Environmental Educator 2

Joanne B. MacDowell, Administrative Aide

Cara McCann, Artist Designer 3

Andrew Flynn, Senior Public Information Specialist

Clarence G. Hare, Maintenance Supervisor I

Robbie Cox, Laborer

Brian McAllister, Coordinator of Volunteer Services

Penny Dufrane, Cleaner

Larry Duprey, Maintenance Assistant

Adam Cox, Maintenance Assistant

Ariel Diggory, Student Aide

Aleitha Burns, Student Aide

NewcombRynda McCray, Environmental Educator 3 (Facility Manager)

Ellen Rathbone, Environmental Educator 1

Michael Tracy, Maintenance Assistant

Kathleen Jennings, Keyboard Specialist 1

Ann LaRose, Coordinator of Volunteer Services

Mary Tisi, Student Aide

visitor interpretive centers

“As we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Adirondack Park Agency

Act, we examine the impact of its policies in the Park over the last 30 years,

and dare to look 30 years into the future where we, as citizens of this

great State, want to be.” —GOVERNOR, GEORGE PATAKI � � � “The Forest

Preserve is the engine that drives the Park.” —C L A R E N C E P E T T Y,

Recipient, 30th Anniversary Environment Award � � � “Sustainableforestry is key to the Park’s economy.” —J O H N D I L LO N , Recipient, 30th

Anniversary Economy Award � � � “People should listen to each other.”

—S E NATO R R O NA L D B. S TA F F O R D, Recipient, 30th Anniversary People Award

George E. Pataki, Governor | Ross S. Whaley, Chairman | Daniel T. Fitts, Executive Director

State of New York Adirondack Park Agency, Route 86, P.O. Box 99, Ray Brook, NY 12977,518.891.4050, www.apa.state.ny.us

Paul Smiths Visitor Interpretive Center, Route 30, P.O. Box 3000, Paul Smiths, NY 12970, 518.327.3000

Newcomb Visitor Interpretive Center, Route 28N, P.O. Box 101, Newcomb, NY 12852, 518.582.2000

Adirondack Park Agency · convey practical and useful information to the traveling public. The...

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Transcript of Adirondack Park Agency · convey practical and useful information to the traveling public. The...