SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The Christmas Tree Farmers Association of NY has announced that their 2018 Winter Convention will be held Jan. 18-20, at the Holiday Inn Liverpool in Syracuse, NY. The program kicks off on Thursday evening at 6 p.m. with an informal reception in the exhibit hall. More than 20 vendors are expected to be present.

The Convention program includes two days of educational programming – with a total of 16 workshop sessions, several of which are geared towards meeting the needs of new and beginning growers.

People thinking of getting into Christmas tree farming and experienced growers are also encouraged to attend. This will be an excellent opportunity to network with other growers, have one-on-one interactions with the industry’s leading suppliers, and learn from experts in the field.

Both days, there will be several opportunities to receive NYS-DEC Pesticide Applicator Credits including at a special session on Friday afternoon on what’s new in the marketplace and how to become certified.

Dr John Frampton from North Carolina State University is scheduled to speak about Fraser fir root disease including the outcomes of research that is underway in North Carolina related to disease resistant Fraser seed sources; and about other fir varieties that may be more promising.  There will also be a session presented by Jill O’Donnell, a Senior Extension Educator from Michigan State University Extension, on fertilizer management including the critical role that soil analysis plays in a successful nutrient management program. Topics to be covered in this session include: understanding your soil test, choosing the right fertilizers, and developing a program for optimum plant growth on your farm.

The Friday luncheon keynote will be delivered by Jessica Brooks from NYS Dept of Ag and Markets. She will provide an update on the new NYS Grown and Certified Program that is now opened for the first time to Christmas tree farms for participation. NYS Ag and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball will also speak during the Friday luncheon; and a person from his office or from NY Farm Bureau has been invited share information about signage and other requirements for farms that are open to the public. This is as a result of the newly authorized inherent risk legislation that limits farms’ liability for visitors’ accidents and injuries.

On Friday evening, the banquet entertainment will be something the whole family can enjoy – an easy-listening, musical performance group from Syracuse University.

The program will also include the annual Association awards presentation, an update from the national Christmas Tree Promotion Board, a wrap-up on the 2017 Trees for Troops program activities, drawings for prizes to benefit the CTFANY scholarship program, and a trade show with industry vendors.

When finalized, the full schedule of events will be available for download from the CTFANY website – www.christmastreesny.org . A registration form is available now on-line or by phoning the CTFANY office on 518-854-7386. Deadline for early bird registration is December 28; and deadline for room block at Holiday Inn at the special group rate is December 24 (call the Holiday Inn on 315-457-1122, mention Christmas Trees).

—Christmas Tree Farmers Association of NY

New York’s Invasive Species Awareness Week #NYISAW begins Sunday, June 6!

Invasive Species Awareness Week (ISAW) is a program established to raise public awareness of the economic and ecological impacts of invasive species to prevent their spread. New York State is particularly vulnerable to invasive species due to its role as a center for international trade and travel.

Invasive species are harmful to our natural resources; fish, wildlife, plants and overall ecosystem health. They can disrupt natural communities and their ecological processes by outcompeting native species for food and habitats and sometimes even cause their extinction.

Managing invasive species is a long-term effort. Public awareness and vigilance are key components to preventing the establishment and spread of invasive species. You can take action in your backyard.

Multi-flora Rose

During ISAW week, take the Invasive to Native gardening challenge by finding a patch of invasive species and replanting with native plants. Many local garden centers can help. One common invasive, multiflora rose is showing up right now, (May – June.) These drought tolerant fast spreading plants are full of white flowers, but don’t let these panicles of white fool you.

The multi-flora rose crowds out native plants and reduces biodiversity and can quickly grow up to 12 feet. Since multiflora rose is not easily controlled, the goal has become to eradicate it. The best method for getting rid of this plant is through a combination of mechanical and chemical techniques. Mowing is a first action to take. It prevents seedlings from further development. For a fully developed plant, digging, pulling, and cutting the bush to a stump is effective if you treat the stump with an herbicide.

Virginia rose

Once the area is cleared, plant the native Virginia rose (Rosa virginiana) in its place. Their pretty pink fragrant flowers in June- August attract butterflies. The rose hips or fruit is rich in vitamin C and can be eaten. They also make delicious jams and can be steeped to make rose hip tea.

Free public events and invasive species challenges are being offered including:

For more information and other tips on Invasive to Native, visit Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District at www.waynecountynysoilandwater.org/ISAW or the Finger Lakes PRISM http://fingerlakesinvasives.org/ for a full list of regional events.

Grab your pencil, some paper, and your hiking shoes to join local nature writer Chris Kenyon on a Trail Works adventure writing in nature! Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Date: June 1, 2019

Location: Williamson Town Park, 3773 Eddy Rd, Williamson, New York 14589

Time: 10:00 A.M.
For more information visit

https://www.facebook.com/events/855817911447723/

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that the annual Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) Swimming Pool Survey is underway, marking the program’s sixth summer of research work.

DEC invites pool owners, now through August 30, to check their pool filters and help keep watch for these invasive beetles before they cause serious damage to the State’s forests and street trees. DEC and partners will also be hanging tags on host trees to encourage people to learn more about ALB and to demonstrate the potential impacts in neighborhoods and parks.

More Information can be found here http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/110853.html

Join the Montezuma Audubon for a guided 3-mile hike at Howland’s Island. Step back in time as we discuss the historical uses of the island while looking for migratory songbirds. Most of the route will be on old gravel roads but some lesser-used grassy trails will be utilized as well. Wear sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting a little muddy, dress for the weather, bring your binoculars, and a bottle of water if you like. This tour is funded in part through the generous support of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Space is limited.

Howland’s Island Parking Lot
Saturday, May 22, 2021
10 AM EDT – 12:30 PM EDT
Registration Required: act.audubon.org/a/guided-hike-howlands-island-52221
Fee: $5/child, $10/adult, $25/family.

Please note: This hike will depart from the Howland’s Island parking area which is accessible via Carncross Road, Savannah, NY (43°04’43.6″N 76°41’23.1″W). The parking area is on the island itself.-Fee: $5/child, $10/adult, $25/family.
-Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to get checked in.
-Space is limited and pre-paid online reservations are required.
-Call 315.365.3588 or email montezuma@audubon.org with questions.

Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Wayne County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs awarded trophies and prizes to over 50 youth anglers at the Wayne County Youth Fishing Derby (YFD) awards ceremony held earlier this month.

The fishing derby had over 55 youth angler participants from ages 4-16. Anglers could register fish at bait and tackle shops and marinas around Wayne County. The Derby had three separate contests in one. Trophies and plaques were sponsored by McDonalds of Wayne County and presented by owner, Nancy Wilkes.
The prizes awarded to anglers ages 7-16 are for 1st thru 6th place in the Species Challenge; Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye and Perch. Noah Wazinski won the Merchant’s Challenge. Noah had to land one of each species for a grand slam; in speaking to Noah’s Dad and the weigh-in stations, he (Noah) fished just about every day!

In the Al Shultz Memorial Challenge, Jillian Thomas and Login Smith were winners. Both under the age 7. They both registered Blue Gill, Rock Bass, Sunfish and Perch to take home trophies. New this year was the “Captain’ Larry award given to the youngest angler Alexander De George of Williamson, age 4. Larry LaForce, a dedicated member of Wayne Co. Federation of Sportsmen, passed away unexpectedly in 2018. Larry loved everything fishing and was an active volunteer every year at the awards event. In addition, the “Most Dedicated Angler” award went to Jaelyn Knapp. The final scores are available click here

Special thank you to all of the sponsors and donors who put big smiles on the faces of the youth anglers in Wayne County. McDonald’s of Wayne County supplies the trophy awards every year. The Rotary of Sodus sponsored 18 youth from the Village of Sodus Point summer recreation program. Most of the program participants had never fished before the event and learned how to put bait on a hook and the practice of catch and release. Walt Crum thrilled the crowd with his imaginative balloon creations. Paton’s Marketplace supplied everything on the grill and the Sodus Point Fire Department for the venue. B&E Tackle, Chill and Grill, Davenport’s Tackle, Finger Lakes Prism, Lake County Taxidermy, Lyons National Bank and Wayne County Tourism donated baskets for the raffle.

Without the support of the following generous sponsors, this annual event would not have taken place. They include: Arney’s Marina, Bay Bridge Sport’s Shop, B&E Tackle, Captain Jack’s, Davenport and Sons Livery and Marina, Zip N Zim Sportfishing, Fishin Magician Sportfishing, Port Bay RV Park and Campground, Hughes Marina, Krenzer Marine, Clingerman Taxidermy, Dynalac Corporation, Steger Haus Restaurant, Joey’s Northside Grocery and Ely & Leene Insurance Agency.

The Wayne County Federation of Sportsmen and the Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District are looking forward to the 2020 event.

If you are interested in sponsorship, please contact the District 315-946-7200.

 

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) feed on many different tree species but are particularly attracted to an invasive tree species known as tree-of-heaven). Any SLF that make their way to New York will be drawn to tree-of-heaven – and they will not stop there. They will next move to feed on native and economically valuable New York plant species, such as maple trees, apple trees, hops, grapes, poplar species, and many others.

This is where you come in: report any tree-of-heaven that you see across New York, and we will be able to watch for and locate SLF more easily!

You can record data on invasive species right from your smartphone by using iMapInvasives, (https://www.imapinvasives.org/) New York’s invasive species database, available for iOS and Android.

Visit:

https://www.nyimapinvasives.org/calendar-of-events   to learn more about the app or to find a training hosted by your local Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM).

 

Photo Credit NYS Ag and Markets / USDA APHIS

Tree of Heaven

If you think you’ve seen the Spotted Lantern Fly, send photos and location info to spottedlanternfly@dec.ny.gov, or fill out an online report: https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/116595.html

How can your business help?

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

Spotted Lantern Fly Fact Sheet

Penn State Spotted Lanternfly Management for Homeowners

 

 

Jean Soprano, of Kindred Kingdoms Wildlife Rehabilitation will have live owls on display during her presentation about the silent hunters of the night. Then, join the Montezuma Audubon Center staff for a hike through the forest and grassland to explore the night sights and sounds. Fee: $5/child, $10/adult, $25/family. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 315-365-3588 or email montezuma@audubon.org

The U.S. Coast Guard needs your assistance!

With the increased water levels throughout the region, and along Lake Ontario and its tributaries in particular, many homeowners are using barrels such as these to mark their docks and assist in weighing them down, an understandable thing to do and one that helps also by increasing the safety of the waterway by helping mark potential hazards posed by otherwise submerged/unseen docks.

What homeowners probably do not realize is that if these barrels are swept off docks and float away, they then become a concern that the Coast Guard has to dedicate time, money and resources to recover.

Once adrift and if unmarked, by law, the Coast Guard has to classify such drums as “Mystery Drums” because contents are unknown and could possibly contain dangerous chemical or petroleum products. Significant diligence is required in processing these sorts of unidentified containers, up to and including the services of a hazardous material contractor to recover the drum out of the waterway and verify there is no risk to the public or environment from the contents – at costs that may exceed $5000 per drum.
Additionally, Coast Guard personnel are required to stay on scene with the mystery drum, thus taking away an asset from other local emergency responses.

We are requesting homeowners assist us in marking barrels they have placed on their docks by painting or marking a large red “X” on the drum so that Coast Guard crews can quickly identify it as a non-hazardous dock drum and allow its origin/contents to be resolved without the need of further specialized investigation. This will also allow Coast Guard boats and people to be available for pressing search and rescue or other maritime emergency cases in the region, continuing our tradition of service to the public.

Any questions can be answered via phone at the Sector Buffalo Command Center (716) 843-9527.

Thank you for your assistance.

WHEREAS, Drumlin View Farms, operated by the Hill Family on High Street Road in the Town of Galen consist of 275 acres of property, the majority utilized for rotational grazing of their milking cows and growing of corn and hay to feed their herd; and

 WHEREAS, Drumlin View Farms milks approximately 80 cows and grow their own replacement stock while consistently working to minimize their impact on Black Brook and limit damage to the aquatic life and recreational uses of this stream and the waterways it flows into; and

WHEREAS, the Hill Family has participated in the implementation of several farm management plans to keep their dairy farm on the forefront of conservation in working with neighboring farms to carry out crop rotation, crop cover, manure sharing, natural resource sharing and best management practices implementation; and

 WHEREAS, both Daniel ad Donna Hill and their children Jeff and Jenna have worked to update their Certified Nutrient Management Plan in an effort to help guide the farm for management of rotation of crops, effective manure application for crop production and management of other natural resource issues; and

 WHEREAS, the Hill Family has worked in partnership with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency and the Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District to further the benefits of land stewardship and conservation implementation, while managing their farm and providing a higher quality herd and looking out for the health of the environment; now, therefore, be it

 RESOLVED, that the Wayne County Board of Supervisors acknowledges and congratulates the Hill Family as the 2017 Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District’s Conservation Farm of the Year because of their dedication and commitment to protect and conserve the quality of our agricultural community. 

 

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