Environment DEC
From the July 2008 issue
DEC and APA Form "Quiet Waters" Working Group for ADK Park
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) have formed "Quiet Waters Working Group for the Adirondack Park." This group will evaluate lakes, ponds and rivers in the park for potential designation as "quiet waters," meaning that motorized craft would be prohibited. The group will comprise staff from both agencies and will solicit input from local officials, community groups, outfitters, sportsmen and women and other stakeholders.
Of the thousands of lakes and rivers in the Adirondacks, the St. Regis river is the only designated canoe area
"There are too few places in the Adirondacks where paddlers can experience the tranquility of a motorless water body. With the increasing popularity of paddling, DEC wants to explore the possibility of expanding 'quiet waters' as part of its effort to increase opportunities for all recreational users of the Adirondacks," said DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis. The working group will draft recommendations for potential quiet-water designation. The recommendations will be subject to public comment and review.
The Adirondack region boasts thousands of lakes, rivers and streams, but the St. Regis is the lone designated canoe area, where paddlers can have a motorless backcountry paddling experience. Although it represents only 1 percent of the lakes in the park, its designation has had a very positive effect on small businesses and outfitters in Franklin and Essex counties.
