REPORT: DEC, Trout Unlimited announce multi-phase aquatic reconnection project in Moose River Plains Complex
HAMILTON & HERKIMER COUNTIES- A multi-phase aquatic re-connection project is now underway in the Western Adirondacks to help reconnect over 40-miles of Brook Trout waters in the Moose River Plains Complex.
This development stems from a joint announcement between the New York State DEC and Trout Unlimited.
“DEC looks forward to starting this important work, not only for aquatic connectivity, but to add resiliency to these systems in the face of severe storms associated with our changing climate,” DEC Region 5 Regional Director Joe Zalewski said.
“DEC is proud to partner with Trout Unlimited in yet another project to improve fisheries, recreational opportunities, and healthy ecosystems.”
“This work will reduce habitat fragmentation and improve access to cold clean water for native Eastern brook trout, the official New York state freshwater fish and a priority species for Trout Unlimited,” Trout Unlimited NY Program Director Tracy Brown said.
The project officially commenced on June 15 and is expected to replace more than 50 culverts over the next three to five years.
The first phase of this project, according to the DEC, will focus on a series of culverts along Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road, with completion scheduled for July 3.
This includes the eastern segment of Limekiln Lake - Cedar River Road. Cedar River Flow Headquarters to Campsite 20 will be closed through July 3 for culvert replacement. This closure includes Campsites 1 – 20.
During construction, all access to Moose River Plains Camping area is limited to the Limekiln Lake/Inlet entrance. Campsite 21 will remain open.
During active construction through July 3, the remainder of the Moose River Plains Complex will remain open – including Moose River Plains Wild Forest and Camping Corridor, and Little Moose Wilderness.
Visitors will be able to access open areas from the Inlet entrance on Limekiln Lake Road but will not be able to through travel from Indian Lake/Cedar River Headquarters to Limekiln Lake/Inlet.
NYS DEC image.
