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Salmon River Falls Unique AreaUnit Management Plan

Prepared by: Daniel J. Sawchuck, Senior Forester, NYSDEC, Region 7

Contributing Staff: Dave Forness, Supervising Forester, NYSDEC, Region 7Fran Verdoliva, Special Assistant, NYSDEC, Region 7Les Wedge, Biologist 2, NYSDEC, Region 7Capt. Morgan Peace, Forest Ranger 3, NYSDEC, Region 7Lt. Thomas Stoner, Supv. Env. Cons. Officer, NYSDEC, Region 7

Contact: New York State Department of Environmental ConservationDan Sawchuck, Senior ForesterSalmon River Fish Hatchery2133 County Route 22Altmar, NY 13302(315) 298-7467djsawchu@gw.dec.state.ny.us

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Salmon River Falls Unique AreaUnit Management Plan

Table of Contents Page

Preface------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Introduction-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Public Input----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Location Map--------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 History of the Salmon River Falls Area-------------------------------------------- 3

Information on the AreaLocation--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5Climate---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5Soils and Geology--------------------------------------------------------------------- 6Water and Wetland ------------------------------------------------------------------- 6Vegetation------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8Wildlife---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Fisheries--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Trails------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11Present Assets Map-------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Property Boundaries------------------------------------------------------------------- 13Parking----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13Signs------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13Other Access---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14Adjacent State Properties------------------------------------------------------------- 14Archaeological Significance--------------------------------------------------------- 14

Resource Demands on the Unique Area Timber and Wood Products---------------------------------------------------------- 14Public Use------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 15Ecosystem Protection----------------------------------------------------------------- 15Conserving Open Space-------------------------------------------------------------- 15Natural Gas Exploration-------------------------------------------------------------- 15

Management IssuesPhysical Issues------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15Administrative Issues----------------------------------------------------------------- 16Societal Issues------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16Department Rules, Regulations, and Laws---------------------------------------- 16Archaeological Site Protection------------------------------------------------------ 16

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PageManagement Goal

Vision Statement---------------------------------------------------------------------- 16Public Use & Safety------------------------------------------------------------------- 17Recreation------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17Land Stewardship--------------------------------------------------------------------- 17Education------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17

Management Objectives and ActionsPublic Use & Safety------------------------------------------------------------------ 17Recreation------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 22Land Stewardship--------------------------------------------------------------------- 27Education------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29

Summary of Proposed New Rules and Restrictions For Property---------------------- 31

Budget Summary------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32

Glossary----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34

AppendixAppendix A - Salmon River Falls Unique Area Maps

Map #1 - Salmon River Falls Unique Area Location Map------------- 36Map #2 - Soil Survey Map-------------------------------------------------- 37Map #3 - Salmon River Watershed---------------------------------------- 38Map #4 - Salmon River Falls Plant Communities Map---------------- 39Map #5 - Salmon River Fish and Habitat Survey Sites----------------- 40Map #6 - Present Assets Map---------------------------------------------- 41Map #7 - Adjacent State Lands Map-------------------------------------- 42Map #8 - Potential Future Acquisitions Map----------------------------- 43Map #9 - Restricted Areas-------------------------------------------------- 44Map #10 - Planned Actions------------------------------------------------- 45Map #11 - Proposed Salmon River Greenway Trail System----------- 46

Appendix B - Salmon River Corridor 1995 Citizen Survey Results----------- 47Appendix C - Natural Heritage Program Ranking System Description------- 53Appendix D - Breeding Bird Atlas Information for the Area------------------- 57Appendix E - Listing of Mammals, Amphibians and Reptiles----------------- 61Appendix F - Fishery Evaluation of the Area------------------------------------- 64Appendix G - Town of Orwell’s Letter to Commissioner Crotty-------------- 65Appendix H - Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing the Management

and Use of State Lands---------------------------------------------- 66Appendix I - Ice Climbing at Salmon River Falls - Registration Form------- 68Appendix J - Public Comments and Responses --------------------------------- 69Appendix K - SEQR------------------------------------------------------------------- 74References------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 90

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Preface

This Unit Management Plan for SalmonRiver Falls Unique Area has been developedby the New York State Department ofEnvironmental Conservation (DEC) toprovide a comprehensive managementprogram for Salmon River Falls UniqueArea. This 112-acre parcel is located inOswego County in the Town of Orwell onthe middle reaches of the Salmon River. The Salmon River Falls Unique Area has abreathtaking 110-foot waterfall and aspectacular river gorge making it a popularsite for visiting tourists.

The Salmon River Falls Unit ManagementPlan addresses the management of this areafor the next ten years, with a review andupdate provided in the tenth year.Unforeseen natural events or human impactsin the future may necessitate deviationsfrom the plan. All deviations will requirethe approval of the DEC’s RegionalForester, and may require additional publicreview and input.

Introduction

This document has been developed by theDepartment to guide future management ofSalmon River Falls Unique Area. DEC’sdevelopment of this plan is based on publicinput and principles of ecosystemmanagement with the goal of providing safe,environmentally sound, and sociallyacceptable public use.

Public Input:Public input has guided the development ofthis plan, beginning with a survey conductedin the Spring of 1995 by the Salmon RiverGreenway Committee (see Appendix B). This committee, comprised ofrepresentatives from local, county and stategovernments and the Tug Hill Commission,

surveyed area residents and other interestedparties to determine public sentiment regarding future development activities andland protection efforts in the Salmon Rivercorridor. Over one thousand surveys werecompleted and returned. Characteristics ofthe river corridor that residents felt wereextremely important were clean streams,pure groundwater and wells, wildlife habitat,open space, and the rural character.Recreation and tourism-related facilitieswere considered important, especiallySalmon River Falls (Salmon River Corridor1995 Citizen Survey Results, 1996).

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History of the Salmon River Falls:Prior to the arrival of Europeans, the SalmonRiver Falls was part of lands occupied bythe Five Nations of Iroquois Indians. Human habitation of the Salmon River areawas mostly seasonal for hunting and fishingpurposes. The 110-foot-high Salmon RiverFalls, located nineteen miles upstream fromthe mouth of the river where it enters LakeOntario, was the upstream barrier to fishmigration, including the native Atlanticsalmon. The Onondaga, Oneida, andCayuga tribes of the Iroquois Nation utilizedthe falls as fishing grounds where theyannually harvested Atlantic salmon. Although not documented it could beassumed that Euro-American settlersutilized the river directly below the falls toalso harvest salmon.

Settlement of the Salmon River area startedin the early 1800's. As transportation routesdeveloped through what were onceuntouched forests, the Falls began to befrequented by local sightseers. By the mid1800's, fishermen, hunters, and sightseersfrom outside the area began to visit the falls. Sportfishing for brook trout in the SalmonRiver above the falls was first documentedin the 1860's by John Davidson, a Scottishimmigrant and lawyer from New York City. Davidson eventually built a family huntingand fishing home/camp, called the “Braes,”overlooking the East Branch of the SalmonRiver, approximately eight miles above thefalls. Atlantic salmon runs to the base of theSalmon River Falls had ceased by the 1860'sas development of mill dams in the lowerSalmon River blocked upstream migration. From 1860 through 1888 the CataractHouse, a tourist lodge and dancingestablishment, was operated by Isaac N.Gurley near the falls. In 1896 a food andnovelty stand was operated by E. E. Cable atthe same location. (Martin,1984)

The history and use of the Salmon River and

Salmon River Falls from the early to late1900's was driven by the development ofhydroelectric power facilities. The SalmonRiver Power Company, later to becomeNiagara Mohawk, harnessed the water powerof the Salmon River for generatingelectricity. Their first step was to createSalmon River Reservoir in 1912 by dammingthe Salmon River above the falls. A 10,000foot pipeline was built from the SalmonRiver Reservoir to the Bennett’s Bridgepowerhouse, creating a bypass around thefalls. Throughout much of the summer, onlyleakage flows of 3 to 5 cubic feet per secondwere released to the falls section of the river. With little water flowing over the SalmonRiver Falls, the aesthetic value of the fallswas diminished. Without the large consistentwater flow over the falls, the area lost itstourist appeal and the numbers of visitorsalso diminished.

During the 1960's public use and associatedsocial problems increased during NiagaraMohawk’s ownership. These problemsincluded, camping, drinking & drug use,graffiti and cliff diving. This was notattributed to management activities ofNiagara Mohawk, but due to irresponsiblebehavior on the part of some users. Accidents at the Falls increased over theyears, resulting in serious injuries andsometimes deaths. (Martin, 1984) The riskof injury was high for those involved inrescue or recovery attempts in the steep andslippery banks of the gorge. NiagaraMohawk allowed public access to the fallsarea but established restrictions againstovernight camping and fires and eventuallydue to the increase in problems closed thearea to the public.

For the past 90 years, Niagara MohawkPower Company (NiMo) has been thepredominant landowner of property along theSalmon River, upstream of Pulaski. In 1993,NiMo was directed by the New York State

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Public Service Commission to divest all theland they owned along the Salmon Riverwhich was not essential to their corebusiness of hydroelectric generation. As aresponse to this ruling, NiMo developed acomprehensive land management planwhich has been guiding the sale ofthousands of acres of property in the area. In 1993, the first phase of this plan wasimplemented when NiMo sold more than1,700 acres of land and 13 miles ofconservation easements and stream rightsalong the Salmon River to the DEC. TheSalmon River Falls property was part of thispurchase by the DEC. This purchase wasmade possible with funding from the R. K.Mellon Foundation and the ConservationFund of Arlington, Virginia.

Another major change for Salmon RiverFalls came in 1996 when the Federal EnergyRegulatory Commission renewed NiagaraMohawk’s operations license. Onehighlight of this license renewal was a new requirement which directed NiMo to releasespecific minimal flow rates from the dam onthe Salmon River Reservoir to the stretch ofriver that includes Salmon River Falls. Thisprovision has enhanced the aesthetic beautyof the falls. (Prior to the establishment ofthe year round flow, the river bed and thefalls were dry throughout much of the year.)

When the DEC began acquiring propertyalong the Salmon River in 1993, one of themain goals was to develop a hiking trailalong the river between Salmon RiverReservoir and Pulaski. The development ofthis trail system known as the Salmon RiverGreenway Trail System has been stronglysupported by the public. The trail work onthis unit are the first efforts in developingthe larger Greenway system on the SalmonRiver.Since State ownership in 1993, the SalmonRiver Falls has become a populardestination spot for local families, fisherman

and other individuals or families visiting thearea throughout the year. Local businessesalong with the county Promotion andTourism Department have been advertizingthe Salmon River Falls as a place to visitwhile enjoying the many other attractionsfound in Oswego County. Although no datais

Salmon River Falls Summer Flow

available, the development of the unit forpublic use has benefitted the local economythrough eco-tourism.

To help improve the area the Department ofEnvironmental Conservation has initiatedseveral projects at Salmon River Falls asillustrated in Appendix A on Map #6. Ahiking trail known as the Upper Falls Trailhas been constructed from Salmon RiverFalls upstream along the bank of the river toits intersection with Dam Road. OswegoCounty’s Youth Conservation Corps played amajor role in the construction of this trail. Arustic stone stairway, referred to as the GorgeTrail, has been built into the river gorgebelow the falls. This trail improves accessfor visitors and rescue personnel. It wasconstructed by the Adirondack MountainClub’s trail crew in the Summer of 2000under a contract with the DEC. Apartnership has also been developed betweenthe DEC and the Town of Orwell’s FireDepartment where DEC Forest Rangers have

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provided rope rescue training for thevolunteers. Much needed rescue gear hasbeen provided to the fire department by theDEC and Brascan Power Corporation. TheFalls Trail, which leads from the parking lotto the top of the falls, was upgraded to makeit accessible for people with disabilities. Funding for this project was provided fromseveral sources including Reliant PowerCorporation and a grant under the FederalHighway Administration’s recreational trailsprogram, TEA-21.

In 1998 the DEC began the Salmon RiverStewards Program. This program consists ofseasonal employees, referred to as SalmonRiver Stewards. They serve as theDepartments good will ambassadors onDEC administered properties in the SalmonRiver Corridor including State Forests,Unique Areas, Fishing Access sites,Conservation and Fishing Easements, andthe Salmon River Fish Hatchery. Thestewards are to promote environmentallysound recreational use and stewardship ofNew York’s natural resources throughpublic education instead of enforcement.They also help to keep the State areas free oflitter, maintain signs and informationliterature as well as monitor public use. Thisprogram continues as funding is madeavailable from the Department.

Information on the Area

Location:The Salmon River Falls Unique Area islocated in Oswego County in the Town ofOrwell on Falls Road which runs betweenCounty Route 22 and Dam Road. It islocated on the Salmon River, approximatelyhalfway between its mouth on Lake Ontarioand its headwaters in Lewis County. Thecenter of the Area is at a latitude of 43degrees 33minutes N and longitude of 75degrees 56 minutes 24 seconds west. Thisproperty is 112 acres in size with its main

attraction being a 110-foot waterfall and aspectacular gorge starting at the falls andrunning down stream approximately 3000feet before leaving the property. Within thegorge there are sheer cliffs and steep slopesas high as 120 feet. The property is alsopositioned at the foothills of the Tug HillPlateau between the Salmon River Reservoir(upstream) and the Lighthouse Hill Reservoir(downstream) (see Figure 1 on Page 2). (SeeAppendix A on Page 36 for copies of allmaps.)

Climate:The general climate of the Salmon RiverFall’s and surrounding area is representativeof New York State and the northeasternUnited States, but its variability from otherareas of the State can be attributed to itslocation directly east of Lake Ontario. Theprevailing west winds, close proximity ofLake Ontario and being located at the base ofthe Tug Hill Plateau causes the areas weatherto be greatly affected by what is termed as“lake effect”. These conditions also have aninfluence on the precipitation, snow fall andtemperatures in the local area.

The precipitation for the Tug Hill andwestern Adirondacks average annually inexcess of 50 inches. The great bulk of thewinter precipitation comes as snow. “LakeEffect” storms from Lake Ontario cause agreat variation in snow fall even withinrelatively short distances. Maximum seasonalsnowfall in the Tug Hill area averages morethan 175 inches. Heavy snow squallsfrequently occur, generating from 1 to 2 feetof snow and occasionally 4 feet or more. Thetemperatures of the area range from a low inJanuary with a average mean of 16 degrees toa high in July with an average meantemperature of 81.7 degrees as reported bythe National Climate Center. The averagelength of the freeze-free season in this areavaries from 100 to 120 days per year.

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Soils and Geology: The Salmon River Corridor is characterizedby relatively simple bedrock geology, withnearly all of the area being underlain bysedimentary rocks composed of sandstones,siltstones, shales, and limestones. Thepattern of unconsolidated surface materialdeposited over the bedrock is complex dueto the glacial history. Soils within thecorridor, upstream from Interstate Route 81, are predominantly stony, medium to coursetextured, highly acid, and on glacial tillderived from sandstone origin. The primary soils have been identified as Worth-Empeyville (WSC),(WRE); Colton-Hinckley (CHC, CHD, CHE); Naumburg(NGB), (NDB); Canaan (CAB) series (SoilSurvey of Oswego County, 1981). SeeAppendix A, Map #2.

Two types of bedrock can be found on theSalmon River Falls Unique Area. The rockmaking up the cliff of the falls consists ofOswego sandstone. Sandstones are usuallyvery hard and cannot be easily eroded. Therocks at the bottom of the falls consist ofPulaski shale. Shales are made of mud andsilt which are much more prone to erosion.Over time, the soft shale has eroded awayleaving the hard sandstone, creating thewaterfall.

Water and Wetland Resources: The headwaters of the Salmon Riveroriginate in Lewis County on thesouthwestern slope of the Tug Hill Plateauat an elevation of 1,800 feet. Flowingwesterly over the Falls at an elevation of850 feet, the river continues over the Erie-Ontario lowlands and enters Lake Ontario atan elevation of 250 feet above sea level. Total drainage of the watershed is 285square miles, with the main stem of the riverbeing 44 miles long (see Appendix A, Map#3 on Page 39).

The Tug Hill aquifer is one of the largest

and most productive aquifers in New YorkState. This aquifer, stretching fromWatertown in the north to Camden in thesouth, passes through the Salmon RiverCorridor. Aquifers store large amounts ofwater and are important sources of qualitygroundwater.

The Salmon River basin consists ofheadwater tributaries, two reservoirs, thefalls, and the main stem and its tributariesbelow the reservoirs. The average annualflow of the Salmon River is 560 cubic feetper second (cfs) with June to August flows ofabout 150 cfs. The tributaries above andbelow the reservoirs are considered highquality cold-water fisheries and provide bothnaturally reproducing and stockedpopulations of trout. Native brook trout arefound in the headwater streams above theSalmon River Reservoir along withnaturalized and stocked rainbow and brooktrout. The main stem of the Salmon Riverbelow Lighthouse Hill Reservoir is thelargest cold-water tributary entering LakeOntario and is renowned for its migratoryruns of introduced Pacific salmon, steelheadand brown trout, along with reintroducednative Atlantic salmon.

The Salmon River Reservoir was created in1912 as a hydroelectric project. Thereservoir is six miles long with a capacity of56,000 acre-feet of water. The 171-acreLighthouse Hill Reservoir (also know asLower Reservoir) is one mile long. The 110-foot-high scenic Salmon River Falls liesbetween Salmon River Reservoir and Lighthouse Hill Reservoir.

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Salmon River Reservoir Dam

Water flow from the Salmon River Reservoir travels primarily through the pipeline to the Bennett’s Bridge powerstation for the purpose of generatingelectricity. The Federal Energy RegulatoryCommission regulates this flow as well asthe minimum flows over the falls by alicensing agreement know as the FERCLicense. This license requires minimumflow rates allowed downstream. The portionof this license that pertains to the river in thearea of the Salmon River Falls is as follows:

• Minimum flow rate over the fallsfrom July 1st to September 30th shallnot be less than 20 cubic feet persecond (cfs) or 9000 gallons perminute .

• Minimum flow rate over the fallsfrom October 1st to June 31st shall notbe less than 7 cfs or 3150 gallons perminute.

The minimum flow rates for this section of

the Salmon River are established to providean adequate flow of water over the falls foraesthetic purposes. Flow rates over the fallscan vary from 7 cfs at its minimum to 10,000cfs during a high water release. Duringflooding conditions in 1985, the flow rateover the Salmon River Reservoir dam and thefalls was estimated at 29,000 cfs. (Murphy,2002)

High Water Release from

Salmon River Dam

There are no recreational water releases forthis section of the river but there aresignificant releases in the event of high waterat the Salmon River Reservoir. When a highwater release occurs, flow rates over the fallscan increase dramatically in a short period oftime. Due to this quick increase in flow, thepower company makes every effort to releasewater after dark to minimize risks associatedwith people in the river. In emergencies it isnot always possible to release at night andreleases are then done during daylight hours.

The Salmon River is classified under Title 5of Article 15 of the NYS EnvironmentalConservation Law as a “C(t)” stream. This“C(t)” classification referred to as a“protected stream” is subject to the streamprotection restrictions of the Protection ofWaters regulations. The section of theSalmon River which runs through the unit isapproximately 3/4 of a mile in length.

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The unit also contains a small portion of afreshwater protected wetland found in thenorth western corner of the property. Thewetland designated as Orwell - 19, classifiedClass II, is 24 acres in size with only .30thsof an acre being located on the unit. Thiswetland is regulated under Article 24 of theFreshwater Wetland Act.

Vegetation:Four distinctly different plant communitiesare found on Salmon River Falls UniqueArea (see Appendix A, Map #4). They areNorthern hardwood, hemlock, shale talusslope woodland, and shale cliff and talusslope communities. A description of eachcommunity is listed below as detailed in theNatural Heritage publication “ EcologicalCommunities of New York State” (Reschke1990).

Northern Hardwood Plant Community -67 acresThe northern hardwood plant community isdominated by deciduous hardwood treespecies. Major species include sugar maple(Acer saccharum), red maple (Acerrubrum), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), yellow birch (Betulaalleghaniensis), black cherry (Prunusserotina), white ash (Fraxinus americana)and red oak (Quercus rubra).

The vegetative understory on the forest flooris made up of tree seedlings, shrubs andherbaceous plants. Understory compositionvaries substantially at different sites;however, witchhobble (Viburnumalnifolium), currant (Ribes glanulosum),bramble (Rubus pubescens), mountainmaple (Acer spicatum), striped maple (Acerpennsylvanicum), dogwood (Cornusalternifolia) and yew (Taxus canadensis) arepresent throughout as shrub components.The most common herbaceous speciesinclude: evergreen woodfern (Dryopteris

spinulosa), Christmas fern (Polystichumacrostichoides), wood sorrel (Oxalismontana), bunchberry (Cornus canadensis),club moss (Lycopodium spp.), Canadamayflower (Maianthemum canadense),goldthread (Coptis groenlandica), Indiancucumber root (Medeola virginiana),partridge berry (Mitchella repens), starflower (Tiarella cordifolia), trout lily(Erythronium americanum), white trillium(Trillium grandiflorum), wild ginger (Asarumcanadense), leak (Allium tricoccum), andmayapple (Podophyllum peltatum).

Hemlock Plant Community - 9 acresThe hemlock type is dominated by coniferoustree species with a mix of northern hardwoodspecies. Major tree species include easternhemlock (Tsuga canadensis), eastern whitepine (Pinus strobus), red maple (Acerrubrum), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), and yellow birch (Betulaalleghaniensis).

The vegetative understory in this plantcommunity contains most of the same specieslisted in the northern hardwood community,however, the plants are not nearly as dense asthey are in the hardwoods. In some of thepure hemlock portions of the community, theforest floor is devoid of any plant life. Asmall portion (0.3 ac) of this communitytype is designated as a Class II freshwaterwetland. This area of the hemlock typesurrounds the wetland as it drains to the river.

Shale Talus Slope Woodland Community -19 acresThe shale talus slope woodland community,found on the banks of the gorge, can bedescribed as a steep slope of various sizedrocks and soil with small patches ofwoodland adjacent to cliffs. The overstory cover consists of mainly hemlock andnorthern hardwood species with 60% cover

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of trees over 20 feet tall, approximately 40%cover of stunted trees and shrubs under 20feet tall. In the understory 30 to 40% ispopulated by herbs and approximately 5 to10% with bryophytes. This community hasbeen ranked by the Natural HeritageProgram having a Global Rank of G4(apparently secure globally but might berare in parts of its range) and a State Rank of S3(typically 21-100 occurrences, limitedacreage, or miles of stream in New YorkState). This community is unprotected inNew York State.

View of the Gorge Below the Falls

Shale Cliff and Talus Community - 6 acres

The shale cliff and talus community is

located in the steepest portions of the gorge.It can be described as sheer cliffs with looseor falling rocks, with a sloping bottom ofrock debris. On the cliff face are ledges thatmay have some soil and plant growth. Thearea is wet, sparsely vegetated withapproximately 50% total cover of vegetation.Herbs have a total cover of approximately40%. The most abundant herbs are flat-topaster (Aster umbellatus), American grass ofparnassia (Parnassia glauca), and Bladderferns (Cystopteris). Some other common plants found in the community are thebigelows sedge (Carex bigelowii) and clear-weed (Pilea fontana). This community hasbeen ranked by the Natural Heritage Programhaving a Global Rank of G4 (secure globallybut might be rare in parts of its range) and aState Rank of S3 (typically 21-100occurrences, limited acreage, or miles ofstream in New York State). This communityis unprotected in New York State.

Birds-eye primrose (Primula mistassinica)and yellow mountain saxifrage (Saxifragaaizoides) are two uncommon plants locatedwithin the Shale Cliff and Talus SlopeCommunity. These plants can be describedas small ferns which grow on the smallledges and steep banks of the gorge. Theseplants have been ranked by the NaturalHeritage Program (see Appendix C), having aGlobal Rank of G5 (demonstrably secureglobally but might be quite rare in parts ofits range) and a State Rank of S2 (typically 6-20 occurrences, few remaining individuals,acres, or miles of stream, or factorsdemonstrable making it very vulnerable inNew York State). These plants areconsidered threatened under State law but arenot considered threatened under the morewell-known Federal Endangered Species Act.Because these plants grow on such limitedsites, there is little that can be done toincrease their populations, however,

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protection is needed to limit human impact.The current population and its habitats arethreatened by disturbances related to rockclimbing.

The remaining 11 acres of the propertyinclude 10 acres of the river bed and 1 acreof the parking area. The river bed of theSalmon River contains no sustainableamount of vegetation due to the scouringfrom high water releases from the hydrofacility.

Wildlife:Given the rural setting of this property, thereare many opportunities for visitors to viewwildlife. It is not unusual to see wildturkeys, osprey, bald eagles and deer whilevisiting the falls. A more comprehensivelisting of the birds, mammals, reptiles andamphibians associated with this property canbe found in Appendixes D & E. A baldeagle monitoring program in 1996 foundthat the eagle used the gorge area of the unitfor roosting during the night. They thenwould spend their days hunting for food inthe lower reaches of the Salmon River andOswego River where there was open water.

Fisheries: Historically, the 110-foot-high SalmonRiver Falls was the natural barrier toAtlantic salmon migrating upstream fromLake Ontario. Today, the two-mile sectionof the river below the falls is not accessibleto any migratory fish species from LakeOntario, having been blocked by the dam atLighthouse Hill Reservoir. This section ofthe river is now referred to as the bypassreach. There are no fish stocked in thebypass reach, nor is it managed to provide afishery by the NYSDEC. The LighthouseHill Reservoir downstream of the falls,which the bypass empties into, is stockedannually with rainbow trout.

A stream fish assemblage and habitat studywas conducted in the bypassed reach of theSalmon River below Salmon River Falls inJuly 2001 by the United States GeologicalSurvey’s Tunison Laboratory of AquaticScience in cooperation with NYSDEC. Ofthe five sites surveyed, three sites werelocated directly below the plunge pool at thefalls downstream to the first major bend inthe river. The other two sites were located inthe river above County Route 22 atBennett’s Bridge and Lighthouse HillReservoir. For a map of the survey sites, seeAppendix A, Map #5. The streambedconsists of large cobble and bouldersinterspersed with extensive bedrock belowthe falls. The Bennett’s Bridge site iscomposed of expansive cracked bedrock andlarge boulders. High gradient and highflushing volume of water during springrunoff most likely contributes to the scouredbedrock sections in this part of the river. Gradient and flow were considered goodwhen the sites were sampled. Watertemperatures at the three sites below the fallsranged from 64 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit and68 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit at the Bennett’sBridge sites. Oxygen levels at all sites weregood. Diversity was relatively high with 19species present. Small minnows of demersalspecies dominated the assemblage. No gamespecies accounted for more than 2% of thetotal sample collected. Only one youngrainbow trout was observed in the sampledsites. Crayfish were abundant whichgenerally seems to be associated with poorsalmonid abundance. (McKenna, 2001) Amore comprehensive listing of the USGSTunison Laboratory’s study conducted byJim McKenna can be found in Appendix F.

Fishing potential of the river below SalmonRiver Falls to Bennett’s Bridge is extremelylimited. The scouring effect on the

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streambed has created a habitat that is notconducive to a trout fishery. This issupported by the fact that trout stocked inthe Lighthouse Hill Reservoir have notmigrated or naturally establishedpopulations in this bypass reach, eventhough they are not limited by watertemperature. Public use surveys conductedby the DEC Salmon River Stewards from1998 through 2001 showed very low to zerouse of this section of the river by anglers. Dangerous terrain in the gorge, includingsteep slippery slopes and the potential forfalling rocks from the ledges, along withvery poor quality fishing for game fishbecause of habitat deficiencies make thisarea unattractive to fishery management.

Trails:Trails on this property will serve as theinitial components of the Salmon RiverGreenway Trail system. This trail systemwill be developed over the next ten years toconnect DEC administered lands andeasements within the river corridor fromPulaski to Redfield. The trail segmentslocated on this property can be seen inFigure 2 on Page 12 and are listed below.

< The Falls Trail leads from theparking area to the scenic SalmonRiver Falls. This trail is 1,100 feetin length and follows the gorge edgeas it guides people to two platformswhich overlook the falls. In thesummer of 2003 trail improvementswere completed which allowindividuals with disabilities to usethe trail and have access to theoverlook above the Falls. At thebeginning of the trail is a trail headsign which tells users the trailslength, the average trail grade of 2%,the average cross slope of 1%, treadwidth of 72 inches, and the surface is

firm crushed stone. Two kiosks arealso found along this trail as well as asign describing the restrictions on thearea. There are also three other trailhead signs along this trail for trailswhich join to this one.

< The Gorge Trail leads from the FallsTrails to the bottom of the gorgebelow the falls. This is a steep,demanding trail recommended forthe physically fit with proper hikingfootwear. The trail drops in elevationmore than 100 feet and features tworustic stone stairways which descendsa 20 foot cliff and the steep gorgebanks. Stair height and tread widthvaries from step to step. The stonestairways are joined by a narrow trail,which includes one switchbackcarved into the bank. The trail headsign describes the trail as onlysuitable for hiking. It is 600 feet inlength with an average grade of 30%,average cross slope of 15%, averagetread width of 32 inches and surfaceis made up of soil or limestone. Thetrail was constructed in 2000 by theAdirondack Mountain Club (ADK)trail crew under a contract with DEC. ADK’s crew used the same timeproven techniques that they’veemployed in the steep mountainousterrain of the Adirondacks andCatskills. The rustic nature of thetrail blends well into thesurroundings. Majority of thefunding for the project was providedby the Clean Water/Clean Air BondAct, with additional funding fromBrascan Energy Corporation alongwith the donation of rock for the stairtreads from Oswego County Highway

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Department. The stairs have reduced thedangers encountered by rescue personnelduring rescue operations. Due to the steepterrain it was not possible to make this trailaccessible for people with mobility impairments.

< The Riverbed Trail begins at theintersection of the Falls Trail and theUpper Falls Trail down to the riverbed just upstream of the SalmonRiver Falls. This is a very steepunimproved trail which wasinformally developed many yearsago by visitors wishing to go to theriverbed and the top of the falls. Thetrail has a loose stone and dirtsurface with irregular natural stoneledges. The trail head sign is locatedon Falls Trail just past the lastoverlook and describes the trail ashiking trail only. The trail is 66 feetin length, has a grade of 42%,average cross slope is 15%, averagetread width is 32 inches and thesurface is loose soil and stone.

< The Upper Falls Trail runs from thefalls overlook east onto easementlands leading to Dam Road. Thispath extends approximately 1 milealongside the river through denseforest and over the sometimes dryriverbed to the base of the SalmonRiver Reservoir Dam. This trail wasbuilt with the help of the OswegoCounty Youth Bureau in 1995. Dueto easement boundary limitations,most of this trail is located close tothe river which is impacted by highwater releases from the damupstream. These releases can causedramatic changes to this trail bydepositing debris or eroding theexisting trail away. The trail head

sign describes this trail as hikingonly, trail length of 1 mile, averagetrail grade is 10%, average crossslope of 5%, average tread width is 32inches and a surface consisting of soiland limestone. There is one trail headsign for this trail and three other trailhead signs for trails which join to thistrail.

Property Boundaries:There are 1.9 miles of boundary lines on theproperty. The lines were surveyed andpainted and the corners monumented soonafter the State acquired the property.

Parking:There is a parking lot for 25 cars along theFalls Road. Two accessible parking spots aredesignated and available for permit holders.

Signs:Trail signs:< Two wooden kiosk are located along

the Falls Trail, one at the beginningand one at the end of the trail. Theyeach have three panels to displaymaps, educational and administrativeinformation.

< At the beginning of each trail is a trailhead or identification sign. Thesesigns give information on the trailname, a brief description of thesurroundings, trail length,accessibility information, andconditions on the trail such as theslope, cross-slope, surface, width andobstructions.

Administrative signs:< Salmon River Falls Unique Area sign

is located along the road and parking area to identify the area.

< Area Restriction signs are located atthe beginning and end of the FallsTrail. These signs list the activities

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which are prohibited on the unit.< Restricted Area signs designate the

area off limits to the public.< Hazardous Gorge warning signs are

placed along the rim of the gorge tomake visitors aware of the dangerouscliffs and steep slopes.

< Area Closed from Sunset to Sunrisesigns located at the entrance to theFalls Trail.

< No Alcoholic Beverages sign locatedat the entrance to the Falls Trail.

< Trail closed signs are placed at thebeginning of the Gorge Trail,Riverbed Trail and the Upper FallsTrail during seasonal closures orduring high water events ordangerous conditions.

< There are a number of areaidentification signs placed on theboundary of the property.

Other Access:Wooliver Road, a former town road, passesthrough the property. This end of the roadhas not been maintained by the town formany years and is legally abandoned. Atpresent this road is used for administrativepurposes only.

Adjacent State Properties:The State has purchased conservationeasements along the river on lands now orformerly owned by Niagara Mohawk PowerCorporation (see Appendix A, Map #7). The easement is a 200-foot-wide buffer oneach side of the river, providing protectionfrom development and provides limitedpublic access. This conservation easementwas granted to DEC in 1993 and it extendsfrom the unit 1 mile up stream and 1.5 milesdown stream to the Bennett’s Bridge powerfacility. There is a break in the easementaround the Bennett’s Bridge and LighthouseHill power facilities and it then continues 9

miles down the Salmon River to the vicinityof the Scholler paper factory. The SalmonRiver Greenway Trail system will utilizemuch of this easement for its development.

Archaeological Significance:Salmon River Falls has a long history ofhuman activity. The area was a traditionalIndian fishing ground before it was occupiedby European settlers. There are no knownremnants of old structures located on theproperty. The only known evidence of thepast which may have historical significanceare initials and dates carved in the shaleriverbed. These etchings are located near theface of the falls. The oldest visible carvingshave a date of 1892.

Resource Demands on the UniqueArea

Timber and Wood Products:The demand for various wood products inthis region of the state is constant. Demandtrends over the last five years for theseproducts within this region are as follows:

Product TrendSawtimber IncreasedVeneer IncreasedPulpwood StableFuelwood DecreasedPoles StableChipwood Decreased

It is expected that the demands for theseproducts will continue for the foreseeablefuture. Although timber production is not amanagement objective for the Salmon RiverFalls property the removal of forest productsmay occur while pursuing non-timbermanagement objectives.

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Public Use:This Unique Area is open for public usewith no fees and restrictions relating topublic safety and environmental protectionconcerns. With the renowned trout andsalmon fishery found on the lower river, thepromotion of the area by the County andlocal businesses, along with the intrinsicbeauty of the unit, the demand forrecreational use by the public is great.

Public use demands on the unit that havebeen identified include:< Nature observation and aesthetic

appreciation opportunities.< Hiking< Hunting, fishing and trapping< Ice climbing< Eco-Tourism opportunities< Preservation of the areas scenic

beauty< Access for people with disabilities

Ecosystem Protection:The importance of maintaining the health ofthe state’s plant, animal and water resourcesis by and large well accepted. This isreinforced by the legislative requirement toprovide for biodiversity on all state lands.The State also has a mandate to protect andmanage species that are endangered,threatened or of special concern.

The following are some specific demands:< Protect the natural visual attributes

of the area.< Protect all native plants and animals

as well as their habitats.< Protect water quality to enhance

habitat for all aquatic organisms.< Protect the threatened plant species

and their habitat from disturbance.< Promote public awareness and

appreciation for the Unique Area’sbiological attributes.

< Provide support for biologicalmonitoring and research.

Conserving Open Space:It can be argued that the breaking up of largeblocks of forested or undeveloped land forthe purpose of development is one of thebiggest threats to our natural resources. TheOrwell Town Board and local residents haveexpressed support for the need to maintainlarge blocks of forested areas along theSalmon River. Insofar as this can beaccomplished, the State’s ability to providefor compatible public use and ecosystemprotection will be advanced.

Natural Gas and Oil ExplorationWith the increase in the demand for low-costenergy there is a equal demand for locallyfound energy sources such as oil or naturalgas. The search for natural gas in New Yorkhas increased across the state in recent years.As exploration extends into Oswego Countyfor oil and gas formations this unit could beeffected by these activities.

Management Issues

Physical Issues:< The same rugged terrain that makes

this property so spectacular alsopresents management challenges.There are many cliffs and steep slopeson the property which present safetyhazards and limitations to recreationaldevelopment and public use. • Some of the cliffs and steep

slopes are hidden byvegetation making them morehazardous.

• Rocks on some of the clifffaces are unstable andregularly fall into the gorge.

• Access to the base of the Fallsand river is difficult due tovery steep terrain.

< Limited property size and limitedaccessibility concentrates public useimpact on a relatively small area.

Administrative Issues:

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< Spending limitations depending onfunding source.

< Need for additional staff.< The area is in a remote location

making it difficult to controlvandalism and nighttime drinkingparties.

< The area is not regularly patrolled atnight.

Societal Issues:< There is some public resistance to

State ownership and management. Prior to DEC ownership, thisproperty was available for public usewithout significant restrictions orregulations. DEC’s responsibilitiestoward resource protection andpublic safety have necessitated thedevelopment of new regulations.

Department Rules, Regulations andLaws:< All activities on the area must

comply with Local, State andFederal regulations, such as theAmericans With Disabilities Act andEnvironmental Conservation Law.See Appendix H for a more completelisting.

< This plan and the activities itrecommends will be in compliancewith, State Environmental QualityReview (SEQR), 6NYCRR part 617.See Appendix K for all relatedSEQR documentation.

Archaeological Site Protection:< Archaeological sites located within

this unit are protected by theprovisions of the New York StateHistoric Preservation Act (SHPA -Article 14 PRHPL), Article 9 ofEnviromental Conservation Law andSection 233 of Education Law. Noactions that would impact these

resources are proposed in this unitManagement Plan. Should any suchactions be proposed in the future theywill be reviewed in accordance withSHPA. Unauthorized excavation andremoval of materials from any ofthese sites is prohibited by Article 9of the Environmental ConservationLaw and Section 233 of EducationLaw.

Management Goal

Vision Statement

Salmon River Falls is an area possessingsignificant natural resource attributes foundin few other areas of New York State. Theproperty is also highly valued by the publicfor its scenic beauty and potentialcontribution to the local economy as animportant tourism destination.

The vision of this plan is to protect theresource through wise stewardship whichmaintains the beauty and character of thearea, while optimizing the many benefits tothe public that this unique area provides.

Salmon River Falls can be referred to as oneof the jewels of Oswego County because ofits intrinsic natural beauty. Its contributionto eco-tourism and the local economy isequally as significant. The long- term goal ofmanagement is to maintain and protect thisproperty while providing high quality scenicand educational opportunities for visitors ofall ages. The challenge is to meet increasingdemand in a way that reduces its impact onthe property and provides for public safetywithout diminishing its natural beauty. Itmust be further recognized that this propertycan offer equal opportunities to people withdisabilities. The Department’s goal is toenhance opportunities while protecting theaesthetics and biological health of the area.To help achieve this vision for the area four

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specific goals are presented with objectivesand actions.

B. Public Use & Safety

Goal - Provide the pubic with safe access tothe unit which allows them to enjoy the areawhile limiting injuries or deaths. Controlactivities which pose a hazard to the publicvisiting the area. Provide rescue personnelthe support needed to safely access the Fallsunit during emergency rescues.

C. Recreation

Goal - Provide and maintain recreationalopportunities that are compatible withmaintenance and protection of the naturalresources of the unit. Encourage the publicto visit and view the beauty and uniquenessof the area without negatively impacting theresource. Improve access for all people aswell as informing them of the types ofchallenges found on the area and trails.

D. Land Stewardship

Goal - Protect, manage and enhance thenatural resources and aesthetics of the areawhile providing opportunities for public use.Protect and maintain the unique plantcommunities and geological features foundon the property.

E. Education

Goal - Provide a public educationalprogram which develops an understandingand appreciation of the units naturalresources, the Department’s management ofthose resources, and the variety of uses. This program will encourage a sense ofstewardship and promote responsible use ofthe natural resources.

Management Objectives andActions

A. Public Use & Safety

Goal - Provide the pubic with safe access tothe Falls and Gorge which allows them toenjoy the area while limiting injuries ordeaths. Control activities which pose ahazard to the public visiting the area.Provide rescue personnel the support neededto safely access this unit during emergencyrescues.

Objectives and Actions

(1) Minimize the potential dangers tovisitors wading in the riverbed, swimmingin the plunge pool or walking in the gorgeimmediately below the falls.

Back ground information:High Water Releases - Due to the fact thatthe Salmon River Falls is located in what isreferred to as the bypass reach of thehydroelectric generation facilities water flowmay fluctuate dependent upon weatherpatterns and precipitation rates. During highwater releases the flow rate of the river canrise dramatically with very little warning. Ifgiven the option the power company releaseswater in the bypass at night so as to minimizethe risk to the public since no other safetyplan is in place. Many of the abovereferenced conditions are due to naturalphenomena and may require water to bereleased into the bypass during the daylighthours.

Falling Rocks - Years of freezing andthawing cycles along with water action haveloosened many rocks on the exposed cliff-like faces of Salmon River Falls and thebanks of the gorge. There have beeninstances where falling rocks have injuredvisitors in the gorge. In 1975 two girls wereseriously injured by falling rocks whileswimming in the plunge pool at the base ofthe falls. (Martin) In 2001 a tourist was hitby falling rocks while fishing at the base of

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the falls. The risk of injuries from fallingrocks has increased as a result of significantincreases in the use of the gorge, followingconstruction of the Gorge Trail.

Debris Being Thrown Into the Gorge - Visitors have often been observed casuallythrowing stones into the gorge from theFalls Trail and off the falls without thinkingabout people walking or swimming below.

Scaling the Falls - Swimmers often attemptto scale the face of the falls and jump intothe plunge pool. This is very dangerous forthe person attempting to climb the slipperyface and to swimmers below. In 1974 ayouth slipped and fell into the gorge whileattempting to scale the face of the falls. Hesuffered numerous fractures, bruises, cutsand contusions. (Martin) In 1996 anindividual fell to his death while trying toclimb down the face of the falls.

Broken Glass - Swimmers risk being cut onbroken glass in the plunge pool and thesurrounding area. Decades of unrestricteduse and vandalism have included thepractice of throwing empty beer bottles intothe gorge and plunge pool. It is not feasibleto clean up the immense amount of brokenglass underwater in the pool or on its banks. There have been numerous incidents ofswimmers receiving severe cuts from thisglass.

Risk of Drowning - When there is a heavywater flow, an undercurrent forms in theplunge pool at the base of the falls. Unsuspecting or weak swimmers coulddrown if they get too close. The DEC doesnot provide lifeguards on any State Forestproperties.

Exposure to Poison Ivy - The base of thegorge in the vicinity of the Gorge Trail andthe plunge pool is heavily covered withpoison ivy. Unsuspecting bathers, or those

who leave the trail, come in contact withthese plants on a regular basis.

The risks to visitors to the top of the falls andin the riverbed and gorge are too great to beignored. The only viable solution is toprohibit access to those areas which pose thegreatest threat and provide adequatewarnings of the dangers found on the area. To protect the public the following actionswill be implemented:

Actions: (1) A restricted area will be established

which includes the cliff face, fallingrock zone and the plunge pool. Allpublic access, including swimmingand wading, will be prohibited withinthe restricted area (see Appendix A,Map # 9)

(2) Access on top of the falls will beprohibited beyond posted restrictedarea signs or within 15 feet of thecliff’s edge.

(3) The throwing or causing of any itemsto fall into the gorge will also beprohibited in order to protect visitorsusing the Gorge Trail or sightseers inthe gorge from being hit with fallingdebris.

(4) Salmon River Stewards will promotepublic safety and compliance withrules and posted restrictions.

(2) Provide a safe environment for thepublic using the Falls trail by keepingusers away from the dangerous cliffs.Inform and warn users of the steep banksand cliffs associated with the gorge andfalls.

Background information:The Falls Trail is a gently sloping trailleading from the parking lot to an area aboveSalmon River Falls. It is, by far, the mostpopular trail on the property. The trail alongthe edge or “rim” of the gorge leads to an

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overlook near the falls. In many places thetrail is within 20 to 25 feet of the steep, cliff-like banks of the gorge. The drop-off alongthe trail is partly obscured by vegetationwhich provides visitors with a false sense ofsecurity. To protect the public the followingactions will be implemented:

Actions:(1) Post warnings on trail head signs and

along the trail of the steep hiddencliffs along the Falls Trail.

(2) Maintain the suspended cable andkick plate along the gorge side of theFalls Trail.

(3) Restrict the area beyond the cablerailing from public access and placerestricted area signs.

(4) Provide information of restrictedareas by displaying the areas on aproperty map posted at the twokiosks and maintaining themannually.

(3) Minimize the potential of peoplefalling or jumping from the top of thefalls.

Background information:The concern in this area is the open bedrockof the riverbed on the top of the Falls. Thisis a popular spot for people to walk andstand on the edge of the Falls to look downand get a better view of the gorge. There isalso the concern of high water releases whenthe flow rate of the river can risedramatically without very little warning.There have been a number of injuries anddeaths associated with people jumping orfalling from the top of the falls.Another activity that goes on is “cliffdiving.” This involves either scaling thecliff or jumping off the top of the 110-foot-high waterfall into the plunge pool below. This activity has resulted in two deaths andtwo serious injuries (one involvingpermanent paralysis) since the State has

taken ownership in 1993. To protect thepublic the following actions will beimplemented:

Actions:(1) The Riverbed Trail will be closed

during high water events and fromNovember 15th to May 1st. Thisclosure will be posted by signs.

(2) Hazardous cliff signs will continue tobe posted in the area.

(3) On the top of the falls, access will beprohibited beyond the postedrestricted area signs and within 15feet of the cliff edge. These restrictedareas will be delineated by signs and shown on maps located at the kiosks.

(4) Restrict swimming in the plunge poolbelow the falls to discourage divers.

(5) Close the area at night.

(4) Provide rescue personnel the supportneeded to safely access the Falls duringemergency rescues and allow for a quickresponse time to incidents in the gorge.

Background information:The DEC does not have the resources toprovide timely response to emergency rescueneeds on this property. Orwell’s VolunteerFire Department has risen to the challenge ofthis critical need. Since the State tookownership of this property in 1993, therehave been four fatalities, one paralysis, andnumerous injuries which have required theassistance of rescue personnel. Emergencyextractions from the base of the gorge aredangerous to perform because of the steepterrain and require rope rescue techniques. Because the fire department is comprised ofvolunteers, adequate training is needed forthem to safely and efficiently rescue anyoneinjured at the falls.

Actions:(1) The Department of Environmental

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Conservation will support thevolunteers’ efforts as resourcespermit. The Department will lendsupport by offering training from theForest Rangers in rope rescuetechniques as staffing permits.

(2) The Orwell Fire Department will beallowed to train in selected sites onthe area which minimize the threatrope rappelling has on the resource.One training site will be located inthe area of the gorge trail which willserve as the main extraction area inthe event of an emergency rescue.The other training site will belocated down the gorge in an areathat is less visible to the public, withmore stable slopes. The trainingopportunities will be limited to atotal of five times per year with nomore than one training beingconducted in the area of the GorgeTrail.

(5) Provide safe use of the newlyconstructed Gorge Trail by recreationalusers.

Background information:The Gorge Trail was constructed in veryrugged terrain with an emphasis of having itblend in with the natural area. As a result, itis a rustic and challenging trail. The skilllevel needed to use this trail is much lessthan that required to use the path it replaced,but it is also significantly more challengingthan the Falls Trail. There is also a largepopulation of poison ivy found along thetrail and in the gorge which encroaches onthe path each year. The Gorge Trail wasalso designed and intended for seasonal useonly. In winter the trail quickly ices fromthe mist of the falls and from spring seepsoriginating from rock fissures in the hillside. The trail is very unsafe in these conditionsand unsuitable for public use without properice climbing safety equipment. To protect

the public the following actions will beimplemented:

Actions:(1) The Gorge Trail accessing the bottom

of the falls will be open for hikingfrom May 1st to November 15th.

(2) The Gorge Trail will be closed duringhigh water events and posted with a“Trail Closed” sign. The SalmonRiver Stewards or other availabledepartment staff will post the trailsupon notification of a water releasefrom the power company.

(3) The Gorge Trail will be open toregistered ice climbers fromNovember 15th to May 1st .

(4) Maintain a gate that has been installedat the top of the Gorge Trail. It willbe unlocked but latched in a closedposition at all times. A sign will beplaced on the gate when the trail isopen to explain the challenges thistrail presents. When the trail isclosed, a sign will be posted on thegate to that effect.

(5) Inspect and maintain the short railingthat has been placed adjacent to theuppermost flight of stairs. The railingwill be inspected to make sure theposts and cable are securely fastened.Inspection and minor maintenancewill be done by the Salmon RiverStewards on a weekly basis. Majormaintenance will be done by thedepartment’s Operations Division.

(6) Determine the feasibility ofconstructing a viewing area at the endof the trail near the base of the fallsby 2006. If found feasible, constructand maintain by 2009.

(7) To minimize contact with poison ivy,signs will be placed along the trailwarning users of its presence. Periodic removal may take placeeither by mechanical means orherbicide. If herbicides are needed a

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site specific environmental reviewwill be completed by theDepartment and appropriatemeasures followed.

(6) Reduce illegal activities and injuriesassociated with nighttime public use andfacilitate law enforcement officers in theirenforcement duties.

Background informationDuring the summer, there are “after hours”parties organized by local teenagers at thefalls. Many of these parties featureexcessive amounts of alcohol and in somecases, underage drinking. Vandalism,littering, painting trees and rocks withgraffiti, breaking glass bottles and buildingopen fires are activities commonlyassociated with these parties. Theseactivities must be stopped in order to limitdegradation to the area. Alcoholic beveragesand the steep terrain are a bad combinationon this unit. Alcohol was a factor in at leasttwo deaths and one serious injury on theproperty since the State took ownership in1993.

There has also been evidence of parties andillegal dumping on Wooliver Road. Portions of this abandoned road are alsolocated in close proximity to sheer cliffsalong the gorge.

Actions:(1) The following restrictions will be

enacted to stop unacceptable usesand facilitate law enforcementofficers in their duties:A. Salmon River Falls Unique

Area will be closed to thepublic between sunset andsunrise.

B. It will be illegal to possessalcoholic beverages, glasscontainers, or paint while onthis property.

C. Open camp fires will beprohibited.

D. Swimming or wading in theplunge pool below the Fallswill be prohibited.

E. Throwing rocks or causingany objects to fall into thegorge will be prohibited.

F. Entering restricted areas onthe property will beprohibited.

(2) Placement of two gates on WooliverRoad located at the propertyboundaries by 2005 (see Appendix A, Map #10).

(3) Salmon River Stewards will helpmonitor illegal use and vandalism byvisiting the unit daily during themonths of June, July, August andSeptember.

(7) Provide a system to alert people in thearea of the Falls in the event of a highwater release.

Background information:The water flow of the section of the SalmonRiver which runs through the unit iscontrolled by a hydroelectric power dam onemile upstream. The majority of the waterflow from the Salmon River Reservoir travelsprimarily through the pipeline to theBennett’s Bridge power station whichbypasses the falls. The section of river fromthe Salmon river dam and the Lighthouse Hillreservoir is considered the bypass reach.During times of heavy rain and spring runoffit is common to have controlled releasesthrough this bypass. There are also timeswhen problems occur in the hydroelectricfacilities and a emergency release through thebypass is necessary. Though these events areinfrequent it is not uncommon for a fewcontrolled releases to occur each year. Whena high water release occurs, flow rates in thebypass can increase dramatically in a shortamount of time. The flow rates can change

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from 20 cfs to 1500 or even higher within anhours time. Due to this quick increase inflow, the power company tries to releasewater slowly or after dark to minimize risksassociated with people in the river. In someinstances water needs to be released quicklyduring the daytime which allows littlewarning to the quick increase in flow ratesin the river.

Actions:(1) The Department will place

information along the trails and atthe Kiosk warning users of thepossibility of high water.

(2) The Gorge Trail, Riverbed Trail andUpper Falls Trail will be closedduring high water events. This willbe done by placing a “Trail Closed”sign at the beginning of the trails.

(3) During emergency high waterreleases Salmon River Stewards orother Department staff will bepresent, if possible, at the beginningof the release to place trail closedsigns and inform users the river willbe rising.

(4) The Department will work towardsinstalling an automatic warningsystem by 2006, with help from the power company, which alerts usersof fast rising water.

Recreation

Goal - Provide and maintain recreationalopportunities that are compatible withmaintenance and protection of the naturalresources of the unit. Encourage the publicto visit and view the beauty and uniquenessof the area without negatively impacting theresource. Improve access for all people aswell as informing them of the types ofchallenges found on the area and trails.

(1) Provide recreational opportunities forpeople with disabilities on the unit.

Background information:The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)requires that facilities such as Salmon RiverFalls are made accessible, wherever feasible,for people with disabilities. Theserequirements apply to trail construction andparking lot design as well as signage andbrochures. In designing facilities andprograms to meet the Americans withDisabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines(ADAAG), the Department will also employprinciples of universal design. Theseprinciples will guide the design of newprojects to insure that the facilities andprograms accommodate a wider range ofabilities and users. A more comprehensiveexplanation of universal design and ADAguidelines can be found in Appendix H.

The Falls Trail which runs from the parkingarea to a overlook near the top of the Fallshas recently been improved to meet ADAAGrequirements. These improvements includedimproving the trail surface and installingappropriate signage. As current trails areimproved or maintained and new trailsdeveloped the following actions will bringthe unit into compliance with ADA.

Actions: (1) Universal Trail Assessment signs will

be maintained at the beginning of thetrail which describe the trailcharacteristics, such as length,elevation change, trail obstructions,etc.

(2) By 2007 upgrade the Upper FallsTrail to ADAAG standards whereapplicable.

(3) All brochures produced for this areawill be printed with a typeface size nosmaller than 12 point. Only easilyread typeface styles will be used.

(4) All trail head signs and kiosks will bemaintained to ADA specifications.

(5) Monitor and correct any deterioration

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of the Falls Trail which impedespeople with disabilities from using it.

(6) All new trail development willcomply with ADAAG Guidelinesand meet the requirements ofuniversal design where applicable.

(2) Develop the trails within the unit toserve as an important component of thebroader Salmon River Greenway Trailsystem.

Background information:The Salmon River Greenway Trail System isa proposed trail system which would runfrom Pulaski to Redfield along the SalmonRiver within State lands and ConservationEasement Lands. The trails on SalmonRiver Falls Unique Area will serve as animportant component of the futureGreenway Trail System as well as providingan intermediate trailhead and one of themost significant features of the trail. Muchof this trail system is dependent upon futureland acquisition due to the limitations posedby the steep topography along the SalmonRiver (see Appendix A, Maps #10 & 11).

Actions:(1) The present Falls Trail and Upper

Falls Trail will be improved andmaintained as part of the SalmonRiver Greenway Trail System as thesystem is developed.

(2) A trail will be proposed in 2010 fromthe parking area to the Bennett’sBridge power station located onCounty Route 22. The portion ofthis trail located on the Salmon RiverFalls property will travel alongWooliver Road, then continue alongthe upper rim of the gorge followingan old logging road until the trailgoes off the property. Theapproximate length of this trail is3000 feet located on the propertywith the remaining 8000 feet being

on Conservation Easement Lands. This trail is subject to gainingapproval from the power companydue to a small section the powercompany owning where the trailwould cross near the Bennett’s Bridgepower house.

(3) Place new maps and signs explainingthe Greenway Trail System as thetrail is developed.

(3) Provide additional hiking experiencesfor families on the unit apart from thegorge and river.

Background informationThe Salmon River Falls attracts largenumbers of people looking to hike and enjoythe outdoors. The trails presently developedon the unit are terminus trails that either deadend or lead off the unit without returning onthe same trail. A loop trail would give hikersadditional hiking opportunities away fromthe gorge and Falls.

Action: (1) Develop a loop trail by 2011 which

begins on Wooliver road and leadsback to the main parking area. Thistrail would be developed as a footpath and be approximately 2500 feetin length. (see Appendix A, Map#10).

(4) Adopt, implement and enforce thefollowing restrictions to minimize conflictsbetween pedestrian users and other typesof recreational activities.

Background information:The main emphasis of this property isproviding opportunities for the public to viewthe Salmon River Falls and gorge. The bestway this is done is through pedestrian use.Other types of uses such as horse back riding,mountain biking, and snowmobiling wouldcreate conflicts with the pedestrian users aswell as users with disabilities. In addition

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these types of activities would pose a hazardto users and others due to the closeproximity of the trails and the cliffs foundon the unit.

Actions:(1) All motorized vehicles,

snowmobiles, horse back riding ormountain bikes, will be prohibitedon the unit.

(2) Install by 2005 a removable vehiclebarrier at the beginning of the FallsTrail to restrict vehicle access whilemeeting requirements foraccessibility.

(5) Provide opportunities for ice climberswhile protecting the threatened plantsand habitat found along the steep slopesand cliffs in the gorge.

Background information:Since State ownership the Falls and gorgehas become a desired location for iceclimbing. These areas form an impressiveamount of ice during the winter months andcreate climbing opportunities which hadn’tbeen opened to the public prior to the State’sacquisition.

The ice climbing community hasemphasized the importance of thisrecreational resource and would like to seethe area remained open to this activity. IceClimbers of Central New York have listedthe following reasons this area is especiallyunique for ice climbing in Central NewYork.A. Close proximity to large population

centers: The Gorge is within a 1-2hour drive from several largepopulation centers. The ice climbersthat live in these areas have fewother local options to practiceclimbing. The alternatives includethe Adirondacks (approximately 3.5hours from Syracuse), Vermont ( 5hours from Syracuse), and New

Hampshire (6.5 hours from Syracuse).Syracuse is only 45 minutes from theSalmon River Falls unit.

B. Volume of Ice: There are multiplesignificant ice flows in the Gorge thatspan a range of difficulty levels. Thissets it apart even from many areas inthe Adirondacks.

C. Quality Climbing Routes: Within theice climbing community, the Gorgehas become known for severalimportant and unique routes thatchallenge ice climbers of a variety ofabilities. Visiting ice climbers fromfar away - throughout the Northeastand as far away as the west coast andthe U.K. - have sampled these routesand confirmed their quality.

D. Alpine Feel: Ice climbing istraditionally an activity central tomountainous areas; the Gorgedefinitely has a “big mountain” feel toit. The gorge sits on the Tug Hill andhas unusually deep snow. The Gorgehas steep walls, no vehicular traffic,and little visible signs of civilization.These characteristics are absolutelyunique for Central New York.

Ice climbing should be differentiated fromrock climbing. Ice climbing is doneprimarily on ice built up from streams orground water seeps coming from the higherparts of cliff faces or very steep slopes. Thisbuild up of ice allows climbers to climb usingice creepers, ice axe’s, and climbing ropeswith anchors (screws). Most ice climbing ison ice formations a few feet thick or thicker. Rock climbing and rappelling is doneprimarily on rock faces using small ledgesand cracks in the cliffs to get a foot hold orplace anchors and use ropes. Due to theinstability of the soft shale found throughoutthe gorge, conventional rock climbing ismore difficult than ice climbing.

Areas where ice formations are found arealso areas that the two threatened plants,

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Birds-eye primrose and the Yellowmountain saxifrage, have been found to liveand grow. A plant survey was done of thegorge in 1993 by the NY Natural HeritageProgram to assess the types of plants foundand their populations. The survey found thethreatened plant species in areas along thesteep shaded cliffs where climbable iceforms. It is unknown if ice climbingdisturbs these plants. It is logical to assumethat there is little disturbance to the plants ortheir habitat since it is buried under a fewfeet of ice when ice climbing. Monitoringof the plants would be necessary todetermine if ice climbing has any impact onthe plants survival.

The Orwell Volunteer Fire Department hasraised concerns over the safety of theirvolunteers during rescues within the gorgein very icy conditions. The volunteers havenot been trained for rescues involving winteror icy conditions along cliffs or steep areaswhich require rope rescues. Another concern or potential danger to iceclimbers is the threat of high water due to aemergency release from the Salmon RiverReservoir dam. A change in river flowwhether constant or short term could alterthe stability of ice formations on the face ofthe falls. During a emergency high waterrelease, the raising of the river level couldtrap climbers on the other side of the river oron the ice itself.

Actions:(1) Maintain the restricted area

surrounding the falls (see AppendixA, Map #9) throughout the year.

(2) Require mandatory registration forall ice climbing. This includesfilling out and signing a registrationform that states the following (seeAppendix I):< No climbing is allowed

without registering. Toregister, fill out the attached

form and place in registrationbox prior to each day’s entryinto the gorge.

< No climbing is allowed withinthe designated restricted areaor on the face of the Falls.

< Climbers are to useconventional ice climbing gearsuch as helmet, ice axe,crampons, etc.

< Climbing in areas without iceand or conventional rockclimbing is prohibited.

< Ice climbing on this propertyis at your own risk

< No open fires< No possession of glass

containers or alcoholicbeverages

< No motorized vehiclesincluding snowmobiles, on theproperty.

< The area is closed from sunsetto sunrise.

(3) Monitor the threatened plants in thegorge every 5 years for possiblepopulation fluctuations and adjust management priorities to maintain theplants habitat and populations.

(4) Monitor the ice climbing usagethrough the registration forms andvisual observation by the area ForestRanger or Salmon River Stewards togain information which could help inmaking future decisions concerninglimiting or expanding the climbingopportunities.

(5) The Department will work towardsinstalling a automatic warning systemby 2006, with help from powercompany, which alerts users of fastrising water.

(6) The Department of EnvironmentalConservation will support thevolunteers’ efforts as resourcespermit. The Department will lendsupport by offering training from the

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Forest Rangers in rope rescuetechniques as staffing permits.

(6) Continue to provide the traditionaloutdoor recreational opportunities ofhunting, fishing and trapping.

Background information:Due to the ruralness of the property thelikelihood of hunting, fishing or trapping tooccur is very possible. There have not beenany known occurrences of these activitieshappening on the Falls Trail or in closeproximity to the Falls. There have beenoccurrences of hunting on the propertyabove the gorge and south of the Falls.Fishing has been observed with poor successin the plunge pool at the base of the falls. In the summer of 2002 a stream survey wasconducted which found the areaunproductive for fish due to the lack of fishhabitat and available food.

Actions:(1) Hunting, fishing or trapping will

continue to be permitted on the unit,with the exception of the restrictedarea surrounding the falls.

(7) Promote the area as a naturalattraction and a destination to visit,adding to the eco-tourism attraction ofthe area.

Background information:The Salmon River and its tributaries arerecognized world wide as a high qualitysalmon and trout fishery. Large numbers offishermen and families visit the area to fishand sightsee. The State Salmon River FishHatchery is one attraction which has a largenumber of visitors during the spawningseasons. Many of these visitors don’t knowthe Salmon River Falls Unique Area existsor how to get there. Local businesses,Towns and County agencies are also lookingto promote the area to attract visitors and

boost the eco-tourism appeal and the dollarsgenerated by it. To encourage these visitorsto tour the Falls the following actions will beinitiated.

Actions:(1) By 2005 the Department will place a

DEC area ID sign at the intersectionof Falls road and County Route 22directing people to the falls.

(2) Continue to work with Towns andCounty government to promote thearea in their tourism brochures andadvertisements by providinginformation on the unit and anyupcoming events.

(3) By 2006 develop a display to beplaced in the Salmon River Hatcheryshowing the Falls location and theopportunities it provides to the public.

(4) Develop a brochure by 2005 for thearea with a location map to bedisbursed on site, at the hatchery, andat area municipalities and chambersof commerce.

(8) Provide additional access to the UpperFalls and Riverbed trails foradministrative purposes to limit damage tothe existing ADA Falls Trail bymaintenance equipment.

Background information:The Falls Trail is presently the only access tothe Upper Falls and the Riverbed Trails.Since the Falls Trail was improved toADAAG standards the trail has becomerestrictive in its width and also to certaintypes of equipment which will be needed inthe future to develop the Upper Falls trail andthe Riverbed trail. In order to improve thesetrails an additional access is needed to keepthe present Falls trail from being damaged.

Actions:(1) By 2006 construct a forest access

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road from the Falls road plow turnaround to the Upper Falls trail. Thisaccess road will be approximately900 feet in length and the roadsurface will be no wider than 12 feetin width.

(2) At completion of road construction agate will be placed at the Falls roadentrance to restrict unauthorizedvehicle access.

Land Stewardship

Goal - Protect, manage and enhance thenatural resources and aesthetics of the areawhile providing opportunities for public use.Protect and maintain the unique plantcommunities and geological features foundon the property.

(1) Pursue acquiring additional acreagefrom willing sellers to combine theproperty with the adjoining ChateaugayState Forest property. This will conserveopen space, protecting the banks of theSalmon River and a buffer for this unitfrom development. New acquisitions willbe pursued in a manner consistent withpolicies defined in “Conserving OpenSpace in New York, State Open SpaceConservation Plan.” This documentguides DEC’s acquisition and open spaceefforts. The State will only pursueacquisitions from willing sellers.

Background information:In 1995 a Citizen Survey (Appendix B) wasconducted to assess what landowners in theSalmon River Corridor thought about thefuture for the corridor. Survey results showstrong support for maintaining theenvironmental quality of the river corridoralong with maintaining the open spacecharacter ( large blocks of undevelopedland) of the river and surrounding area. There was also a strong emphasis to protectthe Salmon River Falls area and improve it

for recreational opportunities. The Town ofOrwell has emphasized this concern bysending a letter (Appendix G) to theNYSDEC Commissioner Erin Crottyrequesting the State acquire lands fromNiagara Mohawk which adjoin the Salmonriver Falls property.

Actions:(1) Look into securing adequate funding

for purchases from willing sellers.(2) Work with Real Property Bureau to

identify willing sellers.

(2) Protect the threatened plants andcommunities found on the property fromdegradation by the public.

Background informationSalmon River Falls Unique Area containssome unique habitats and physical features.The Shale Cliff and Talus Slope and ShaleTalus Woodland Communities, including thenatural beauty of the waterfalls and gorge,differentiate this area from the surroundingforests and ecosystem. It is a challenge topreserve these habitats while providing fortourism and recreational opportunities. It hasbeen estimated from random counts that over20,000 people visit Salmon River Falls eachyear. The habitat for threatened plants andvegetation located on this property is veryvulnerable to disturbance and erosion. Increased numbers of visitors walking orsliding off the trail creates risks to theseplants as does rock climbing and rappelling.

Actions:(1) Delineate a restricted area around the

Falls and the Shale Cliff and TalusSlope communities to restrict usewhich could damage the threatenedplants and their habitat.

(2) Restrict rock climbing and rappelling.(3) Monitor the locations and status of

the birds-eye primrose and the yellowmountain saxifrage yearly.

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(3) Manage the current forest cover typesto develop old growth characteristics.

Actions: (1) This property will not be utilized for

timber production and there will beno silvicultural treatments for thisplanning period.

(2) Trees will only be cut or removed fortrail safety, aesthetics andrecreational development as outlinedin this plan, or if necessary, toenhance existing populations ofthreatened plant species.

(3) Conduct a forest inventory of theproperty on a 20 year cycle.

(4) By 2006 conduct an inventory of theflora and fauna of the unit, focusing onthe areas within the gorge.

Actions: (1) Identify and map occurrences of

rare, threatened or endangeredspecies and communities

(2) Promote participation by outsidegroups, especially in areas requiringspecial expertise.

(3) Maintain database and maps on theGeographical Information System.

(5) Prevent erosion on the Riverbed Trailby stabilizing the trail surface.

Background information:The majority of visitors eventually maketheir way to the top of the Falls to walkalong the riverbed and to get a bird’s-eyeview of the gorge. No access has ever beenformally developed from the rim of thegorge to the top of the falls, but there areinformal trails which have been created byvisitors over the years. Increased use ofthese informal trails has caused significantproblems with soil erosion. There werethree trails leading down to the top which

traversed cliff-like ledges, steep eroding soiland gravel paths. Two of these trails havebeen blocked by the construction of the fallsoverlook. The remaining trail, designated asthe Riverbed Trail, is actually an erodedpathway with a 48" bedrock drop exposed inthe middle of the slope. Due to erosionproblems, the Riverbed Trail needs to bestabilized to prevent erosion and improve thesafety of the trail. Based upon experience with developing theGorge Trail, which is similar in topography,one option to reduce the soil erosion is tobuild a stone stairway. Given the steepterrain, the aesthetic sensitivity of the site,varying flow rates of the river and thedifficulty of working with the exposedbedrock, it is not practical (or required) toimprove this trail to ADAAG standards.

Actions:(1) Design and obtain a cost estimate to

improve the Riverbed Trail by placinga stone stairway in 2006.

(2) Secure appropriate funding and buildstairway by 2008.

(6) Restrict surface disturbance associatedwith natural gas exploration, productionand development on all 112 acres of theunit.

Background information:Title 11 Section 23-1101 of theEnvironmental Conservation Law authorizesthe Department of EnvironmentalConservation to make leases on behalf of theState for exploration, production anddevelopment of oil and gas on State lands.Since this type of exploration anddevelopment results in surface disturbance, anumber of factors are considered whendetermining if the type of disturbance wouldbe allowed or not. The process by whichthese factors are compiled and looked at isknow as a tract assessment. Factors such asthe presence of regulated wetlands, riparian

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areas, steep slopes, significant recreationareas, presence of rare, threatened orendangered species or unique ecologicalcommunities, are all areas which may beexcluded from surface disturbance. Certainland management strategies, such asreserves, where timber harvesting isprecluded, which may be incompatible withoil and gas well development, may result inexclusion from surface disturbance. Uponcompleting an assessment for this unitdeterminations deciding which areas wouldbe excluded from surface disturbance havebeen made based upon the followingfindings.A. 95 acres or 85% of the unit are found

to contain or be in close proximity toregulated wetlands, riparian areas,steep slopes, significant recreationareas, presence of threatened plantspecies or unique ecologicalcommunities.

B. 112 acres or 100% of the unit has anobjective to manage the currentforest cover types to develop oldgrowth characteristics and remainaesthetically pleasing to the public.This objective limits the cutting oftimber or removal of trees moved fortrail safety, aesthetics andrecreational development as outlinedin this plan, or if necessary, toenhance existing populations ofthreatened plant species.

Actions:(1) The Department will not permit the

exploration, production anddevelopment of oil and gas on thisunit due to ecological sensitivity ofthe area, the high public use of thearea for recreation, and the timbermanagement objective which isdesigned to enhance the previousmentioned concerns.

Education

Goal - Provide a public educational programwhich develops an understanding andappreciation of the unit’s natural resources,the Department’s management of thoseresources, and the variety of uses. Thisprogram will encourage a sense ofstewardship and promote responsible use ofthe natural resources.

(1) Maintain educational andadministrative signs along the trails and atthe kiosks.

Background information:The property is visited by many peoplethroughout the year to view the Falls andgorge. Many of the visitors are interested inthe local history, geology of the area and ingeneral why the area is considered unique.Some of these visitors are also unaware ofthe safety concerns on the unit as well as theregulations or restrictions put in place by theDepartment. With the current trail head signsand the two kiosks located on the Falls Trailthere are sufficient opportunities to providevarious information about the unit.Information about the geology, naturalresources, trails, safety concerns and arearestrictions can be found on signs throughoutthe unit. The following actions will helpmaintain, improve and add to the existinginformation signage.

Actions: (1) Salmon River Stewards will routinely

check all educational andadministrative signs for damage orvandalism and replace as necessary.

(2) Enlist the help from the Division ofPublic Affairs and Education indeveloping an information /registration sign explaining theguidelines for climbers and the needto protect areas with threatened plantspecies.

(3) Place a seasonal ice climbinginformation sign in 1st kiosk during

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winter months.(4) In 2013 update all kiosk and

informational materials if needed.

(2) Utilize at least four meetings or localevents annually along with fourinterpretive walks on the property topromote the benefits of publicstewardship of the unit, and therecreational opportunities it provides.

Background information:The Department along with other localcounty, town or village agencies haveannual events where information about theunit can be displayed. Some of these eventsinclude the Departments open house at theSalmon River Fish Hatchery, The County’s“Conservation Field Days”, The OswegoCounty Fair, the “Salmon River Festival” inPulaski and the “Fragile Wilderness” inWatertown. These events are also goodopportunities for the Salmon River Stewardsto educate people about the otheropportunities the State has to offer withinthe Salmon River Cooridor.The Salmon River Stewards will also bepresent on the unit regularly so it would bepractical for them to conduct planned andadvertized interpretive walks explaining inmore detail the history, geological, andecological resources of the unit.

Actions:(1) Provide informative displays at

public events such as the OswegoCounty Fair, Pulaski’s Salmon RiverFestival, Conservation Field Daysand the Salmon River HatcheryOpen House.

(2) Provide presentations to variousorganizations as requested.

(3) Salmon River Stewards will conductat least four interpretive walks alongthe trails on the unit. Walks will beadvertized in the local paper andposted at the Salmon River Fish

Hatchery and in the kiosk near theparking area.

(3) Use the popularity of this unit to reachlarge numbers of people with theDepartments educational mandate.

Actions:(1) By January 2005, develop an

informative brochure which describesthe history, natural resources, traillocations and area restrictions of theunit.

(2) By January 2006, develop a display tobe placed at the Salmon River FishHatchery which shows the unit’slocation within the Salmon RiverGreenway, describes the history ofthe property, explains the uniqueenvironmental and geological featuresfound on the unit, and whatrecreational opportunities aredeveloped.

(3) By 2008, make information availablethrough the departments web sitewhich provides educational andadministrative information of theproperty and the recreationalopportunities offered.

(4) Provide personnel to help answer usersquestions about the unit and the SalmonRiver area during the peak usage times ofthe year.

Actions:(1) Have the Salmon River Stewards

program maintain a daily presence atthe property during the summer, andsalmon spawning season.

(2) Conduct spot checks daily throughoutthe spring , summer and fall, todetermine times of expected highestuse and also talk with visitors.

(3) Produce by June 2006 a frequentlyasked question and answer sheet toassist the stewards when encountering

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the public.

Summary of Restrictions forProperty

These restrictions will be posted by signs atselected locations on the property to informvisitors. The posting of restrictions by signsis the first effort in controlling the uses onthe property. Formal regulations will bepromulgated if these restrictions fail toadequately provide for public safety andresource protection.

< The area is closed between sunsetand sunrise.

< The possession of alcoholicbeverages and glass containers isprohibited.

< The possession of paint of any kindis prohibited.

< Open campfires are prohibited.< Throwing rocks or causing any

objects to fall into the gorge isprohibited.

< All visitors are prohibited within 15feet of the cliff edge and fromentering the designated restrictedareas on the property.

< All motorized vehicles, includingsnowmobiles, are prohibited.

< Swimming or wading is prohibited inthe plunge pool below the falls.

< Rock climbing and rappelling isprohibited

< Ice climbing is allowed bymandatory registration only.

< The Riverbed and Gorge Trails willbe closed from November 15 to May1 and during high water events.

< The Gorge Trail is open to registeredice climbers during the wintermonths.

The Department also reserves the right torestrict activities or access further if safety orresource abuse concerns require it.

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Budget Summary

ANNUAL TASKS UnitCost($)

ManDays Year

Maintenance

Litter pickup 1,000 5 Annual

Kiosk signs, trail signs and administrative signs 1,000 3 Annual

Cable railings, kick plates, overlook railings andstairs

1,000 3 Annual

Trails ADA trails to comply with all ADAAGstandards

3 Annual

Public Use and Safety

Posting of trail closure signs 1 Annual

VFD training in rope rescue with support from theForest Rangers

1 Annual

Seasonal Salmon River Steward position to monitoruses daily during the months of June, July, Augustand September

1 position 12,000 120 Annual

Recreation

Distribute area brochures 300 1 Annual

Seasonally place ice climbing registration box andinformation signs in first kiosk

1 Annual

Land Stewardship

Land Acquisition 3 Annual

Monitor restricted areas for disturbances 1 Annual

Monitor threatened plant species populations 1 Annual

Education

Conduct 4 interpretive walks 100 4 Annual

Attend 4 public events to promote area 100 5 Annual

Area orientation with new Stewards 1 Annual

TOTAL FOR ANNUAL TASKS 15,500 153

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PERIODIC TASKS UnitCost($)

ManDays Year

Maintenance

Boundary lines 1.9 miles 500 2 2007

Development/Construction

Install vehicle barrier at beginning of Falls Trail 1 1,000 3 2005

Place Unit ID sign at intersection of County Route 22 and Falls Road

1 1,000 2 2005

Install two gates on Wooliver Road 2 gates 3,000 4 2005

Conduct feasibility study of developing viewingplatform at base of Gorge Trail

1 3 2006

Do cost estimate for trail improvements on RiverbedTrail

1 3 2006

Improve Upper Falls Trail following ADAAGstandards

1 mile 10,000 10 2007

Rebuild Riverbed Trail 100 feet 10,000 10 2008

Construct viewing area at base of Gorge Trail 150 sq. ft. 10,000 10 2009

Develop trail from parking area to Bennett’s Bridge 2 miles 20,000 20 2010

Develop loop trail off Wooliver Road .5 mile 2,000 5 2011

Public Safety

Install high water alarm system 1 5,000 3 2006

Land Stewardship

Natural Heritage survey 1 5,000 5 2006

Forest inventory 112 acres 500 2 2012

Education

Develop brochure for Unit 1 500 3 2005

Develop display of Unit for Hatchery 1 500 3 2006

Develop information web page for Unit 1 3 2008

Update brochure and kiosk information 1 2,000 5 2013

Total 71,000 96

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Glossary

ASSEMBLAGE: A collection [of fish].

BRYOPHYTES: A division ofnonflowering plants characterized byrhizoids rather than true roots and havinglittle or no vascular tissue.

COMMUNITY: A group of ecologicallyrelated populations of various species oforganisms occurring in a particular placeand time. ("Technologies To MaintainBiological Diversity" U. S. Congress, Officeof Technology Assessment, 1987, p.313)

CONIFER: A cone bearing evergreen treeor shrub. (Random House Dictionary)

DECIDUOUS: Trees whose leaves fall offor are shed seasonally or at a certain stage ofthe development in the life cycle. (Webster’sNinth Collegiate Dictionary, 1991)

ECOSYSTEM: 1. An ecological community together withits physical environment, considered as aunit. ("Technologies To Maintain BiologicalDiversity," U. S. Congress, Office ofTechnology Assessment, etc., p.314) 2. All the interacting populations of plants,animals and microorganisms occupying anarea, plus their physical environment.(Hunter, Malcolm, "Wildlife Forests, andForestry,” 1990, p.15)

ECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT: 1. Management decisions that areecologically responsible, economicallyviable and socially acceptable. (Comanor,Joan, "Ecosystem Based Management at thePublic-Private Land Interface," 11/93,USDA FS)2. The appropriate integration of ecological,economic, and social factors in order tomaintain and enhance the quality of theenvironment to best meet our current and

future needs. Means keeping naturalcommunities of plants, animals, and theirenvironments healthy and productive sopeople can benefit from them year to year.(Gelburd, Diane, "Implementing Ecosystem-Based Assistance for The Management ofNatural Resources in the Soil ConservationService," USDA SCS)3. Focuses on the condition of the forest,with goals of maintaining soil productivity,gene conservation, biological diversity,landscape patterns, and the array ofecological processes. Ecosystemmanagement recognizes that naturaldisturbance regimes and ecosystemprocesses provide the basic blueprint for asustaining pattern and process across thelandscape. Management practices aresought that reflect (not duplicate) theselandscape patterns and ecosystem processes.(SAF Task Force Report on Sustaining LongTerm Forest Health and Productivity, 1992)

ENDANGERED: Native plants (andanimals) in danger of extinction throughoutall or a significant portion of their rangeswithin the state and requiring remedialaction to prevent such extinction. (NYCRR,Title 9, part 193.3)

FERC: Federal Regulatory EnergyCommission - is a federal agency whichoversees all energy producing industries.

FOREST: 1. Communities formed by trees with acanopy cover of at least 61 percent or moreat maturity, with tree crowns usuallyinterlocked. ("Ecological Communities ofNew York State" N.Y. Natural HeritageProgram, 1990, p.81)2. A collection of stands administered as anintegrated unit. (Smith, David, "The Practiceof Silviculture," 1962, p.18)

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HARDWOOD: Broadleafed trees,deciduous. Also refers to the woodproduced by these trees.

OVERSTORY: That portion of the trees ina forest of more than one story forming theupper or uppermost canopy layer. ("Silvicsof North America,” USDA Ag. Hndbk.#654, p.641

POLETIMBER: Generally, trees 6-11" inDBH.

RARE: Native plants that have from 20 to35 extant sites or 3,000 to 5,000 individualsstatewide. (NYCRR, Title 9, Part 193.3) SAPLING: Generally, trees 1" to 5" inDBH.

SAWTIMBER: Generally, trees 12" andlarger in DBH.

SEEDLING: A tree grown from seed,generally describes a young tree before itreaches the sapling stage. Also, in nurserypractice, a tree that has not beentransplanted in the nursery. (ForestTerminology, SAF)

SOFTWOOD: Needle bearing trees. Seeconifer. Also refers to the lumber derivedfrom these trees.

STAND: A contiguous group of treessufficiently uniform in species composition,arrangement of age classes, and condition tobe a homogenous and distinguishable unit.(Smith, David, "The Practice ofSilviculture," 1962, p.18)

STATE FOREST/STATEREFORESTATION AREA: Lands ownedby the State of New York, administered bythe Department of EnvironmentalConservation and authorized byEnvironmental Conservation Law to be

devoted to the establishment andmaintenance of forests for watershedprotection, the production of timber andother forest products, and for recreation andkindred purposes. These forests shall beforever devoted to the planting, growth andharvesting of such trees. (Title 3, Article 9-0303 ECL)

TEA-21 PROGRAM: A grant programthat disperses money for trail developmentprojects administered through the New YorkState Office of Parks, Recreation andHistoric Preservation.

THREATENED: Native plants (andanimals) that are likely to becomeendangered within the foreseeable futurethroughout all or a significant portion oftheir ranges in the state. (NYCRR, Title 9,part 193.3)

UNDERSTORY: Generally, those treesand woody species growing under anoverstory. ("Silvicultural Systems for theMajor Forest Types of the United States,”USDA Ag. Hdbk. #445, 1973, p. 105)

WATERSHED: Drainage basins orcatchments which possess physical,chemical and biological properties that giveit a unique set of hydrologic characteristics.(Forestry Handbook, 4th Edition, p.638)

WATER QUALITY CLASSES: A systemof classification set forth in ECL Articles 15and 17 which presents a ranking listing ofthe State's surface waters by the letters AA,A, B, C or D according to certain qualitystandards and specifications. AA is thehighest quality rank and has the greatestsuitability for use.