Environment DEC
From the November 2007 issue
Eastern Lake Ontario Barrier Beach State's Newest Natural Heritage Area
A 17-mile stretch that encompasses one of the largest inland dune systems in the eastern Great Lakes would become New York's second natural heritage area under a proposal announced by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis. Commissioner Grannis proposed designating the Eastern Lake Ontario Barrier Beach and Wetland Complex as a natural heritage area, providing heightened protection to the 5,800-acre site. This designation applies to all state-owned land on the Lake Ontario shore between the mouths of Stony Creek in Jefferson County to the north and the Salmon River in Oswego County to the south. It includes the Black Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Southwick Beach State Park, Sandy Pond Beach Natural Area, Lakeview Marsh WMA and the Deer Creek WMA.
Multiple Habitats
Southwick Beach State Park is part of the recently designated natural heritage area
The Eastern Lake Ontario Barrier Beach and Wetland Complex is made up of multiple barrier beaches, bays, dunes and wetlands. The area has been recognized in many ways--the State of New York has designated it a significant coastal fish and wildlife habitat, and a bird conservation area, and the Audubon Society has named it an important bird area.
Recreational Opportunities
Public lands along Lake Ontario provide a variety of recreational opportunities, including boat-launch and canoe/kayak access sites, hiking trails, wildlife viewing sites and diverse hunting, fishing and trapping opportunities, in addition to camping, picnicking and life-guarded swimming on Southwick Beach State Park.
For more information about this designation, visit "Eastern Lake Ontario Barrier Beach and Wetland Area: Proposed Natural Heritage Area Designation": www.dec.ny.gov/animals/279.html.
