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September 6, 2013

Please Tell Governor Cuomo that NY Wants Wilderness!

A recent Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request by Protect the Adirondacks revealed that Adirondack conservationists delivered in force when it came to letting the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) know of their support for a Wilderness classification for the Essex Chain Lakes. The FOIL revealed that The APA received over 3,600 written comments and various petitions with nearly 2,500 signatures. An analysis of these comments found that between letters, emails, and petitions the public supported a Wilderness classification at a 4-1 rate over Wild Forest (i.e., a motorized designation). ADK members were a large part of this successful effort.

Action Needed! Now we need you to do it again! We have only a short time to let Governor Andrew Cuomo know that his constituents (and those who use and love - and spend money in - the Adirondack Park) want Wilderness!

We expect a final decision on the classification of the Finch Pruyn Lands and the Essex Chain Lakes in late September or early October. We need you to respectfully request that Governor Cuomo support a Wilderness Classification for the Finch Pruyn Lands and the Essex Chain Lakes in our Adirondack Park. Please also let the Governor know why the Adirondack Park is so important to you and how its management and protection are deciding factors for you when it is time for you to vote.

Not sure what to write? Below is some sample text to use as a guide. Make sure that you fill out your complete name and address on the contact form. Many groups are signing on to help with this effort. Read the joint statement from ADK and seven other organizations on this matter.

Dear Governor Cuomo,
I support a Wilderness classification for the Hudson River and Essex Chain Lakes because the fragile ecology and fishery of the small lakes and ponds of the Essex Chain would be exposed to invasive species, overuse and the loss of remoteness and quiet if floatplanes, motor boats and all terrain vehicles are permitted. A Wilderness classification provides the best natural resource protection and preserves wild outdoor recreational opportunities for current and future generations. A new Hudson River Wilderness area will be one of your great accomplishments.

A Wild Forest classification that allows motorized access is the wrong choice for these wonderful lands and fragile natural resources.

Thank you!

Governor Cuomo has three New York State Government designees who vote as APA Commissioners on Adirondack Park decisions. We need the Governor to understand the importance of having a Wilderness classification for the Finch Pruyn Lands as Wilderness. Most importantly, the Essex Chain Lakes, the Hudson River, and the Cedar River must be classified as motor-free. Governor Cuomo will also personally approve the final APA classification decision, so our effort now must be to help the Governor understand that New York wants Wilderness!

Now for the final push! Send your note to Governor Cuomo today telling him that New York wants Wilderness!

Thank you for helping ADK to take a stand for wilderness for the Essex Chain Lakes and the Upper Hudson River!

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