DEC’s 165 Acre Purchase Unites Hemlock and Canadice Forests

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LIVINGSTON COUNTY – State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Regional Director Paul D’Amato today announced the completion of the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest Unit Management Plan (UMP) and the acquisition of 165 acres of land to further protect the City of Rochester’s water supply.

According to a press release from the DEC, The protection of Canadice and Hemlock Lakes was a significant reason for the State’s 2010 acquisition of what is now officially the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest.

“This is a perfect way to celebrate Earth Day,” said DEC Regional Director Paul D’Amato. “Nearly five years ago we were here celebrating the acquisition and permanent protection of the pristine lands surrounding Hemlock and Canadice Lakes and today we are announcing not only the Management Plan which will guide us in caring for those lands, but an exciting addition of 165 acres to the Hemlock Canadice State Forest.”

The UMP provides management direction regarding public recreation, timber and grassland management, public access and endangered species habitat protection. It also clarifies that no drilling for oil and gas will take place in the forest, an issue that many members of the public expressed concerns about during the UMP process.

In addition to the clear prohibition on drilling, the UMP will improve access by adding North and South Hemlock Haul Roads to the list of roads open to motor vehicle use by people with qualifying disabilities and improve parking lots along Canadice Lake Road; increase public hunting and fishing by stocking pheasants and fish in suitable habitat; and acquire additional land parcels, such as the land purchase from Canadice resident Barbara Christoff.

The state’s multiple use State Forest System, including Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, is “dual certified” under the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. These third party certification programs require that DEC manage its forestry resources sustainably, with the future in mind, and protective of water, air and wildlife habitat.

Director D’Amato presented a certificate of appreciation to Christoff for her efforts in supporting and expanding the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest at a ceremony held Tuesday at the Hemlock Park Pavilion in the town of Livonia.

“Individuals, as individuals, have limited control over what happens in the future,” said Christoff. “So, it is with these thoughts that I feel grateful that the property is in the hands of the State DEC in perpetuity, particularly as it joins the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest. New York State residents need to know that our neighbors who serve the State as professional employees effectively manage their awesome responsibilities.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Canadice Lake and surrounding forest, now known as Hemlock-Canadice State Forest. (File Photo)