Otsego Outdoors

Frog Bit Friday
2022-07-15 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | New York
Join the Otsego County Conservation Association for some good, not-at-all clean fun as it continues its efforts to remove the invasive European frog-bit from Clarke Pond in Springfield. This is strenuous, wet and dirty work, but rewarding and important! Pre-registration is required: https://occainfo.org/calendar/frog-bit-friday-2/

Participating in this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Summer Octet

Chop and Cheese
2022-07-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Mohican Farm/OCCA offices, 7207 St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Japanese knotweed control efforts at Mohican Farm continue! Join the Otsego County Conservation Association as it cuts down and dig up a patch of Japanese knotweed in an effort to eliminate this hard-to-control invasive, then enjoy light refreshments in the garden! Register at https://occainfo.org/calendar/chop-cheese-3/

Participating in this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Summer Octet.

ADK Guided Hike: Arnold Lake State Forest
2022-07-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Arnold Lake State Forest, 767 County Road 46, Hartwick, NY, 13820, United States
Join members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club for a hike. See https://susqadk.org/outing-schedule/ for details. Open to the public.
Participating in this hike counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Summer Octet.

Walk with OLT in the Springfield Parade
2022-07-04 10:00 - 12:00 | New York
Join the Otsego Land Trust and walk in the Springfield Fourth of July Parade and hand out native trees. Contact info@otsegolandtrust.org or call 607-547-2366 for details.
Participating in this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Summer Octet.

Native Tree Wrapping
2022-07-01 09:30 - 12:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Volunteers are needed to help the Otsego Land Trust prepare 700 native trees species to give out at the Springfield 4th of July Parade. All ages are welcome to join us at Brookwood Point Conservation Area to wrap the trees!

Participating in this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Summer Octet.

Guided Hike: Susquehanna Greenway
2022-06-28 10:00 - 11:30 | New York

Fishing Clinic at Gilbert Lake
2022-06-25 09:00 - 13:00 | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
Open to all ages!
~ NO FISHING LICENSE NEEDED ~
DEC, NYS Park and Fisheries staff will be on hand at Gilbert Lake State Park to teach basic fishing skills. In addition to fishing, participants can learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics and aquatic ecology.
A limited supply of equipment to loan out for the clinic and live bait will be provided to all who are registered in advance.
Please call Gilbert Lake 607-432-2114 to register!

Free Fishing Days
2022-06-25 - 2022-06-26 | New York
During Free Fishing Days/Weekends, anyone can fish the fresh waters of New York State and no fishing license is required! All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.

June 25-26, 2022
September 24, 2022
November 11, 2022

Ideas for Free Fishing Days

Try fishing for the first time.
Haven’t fished in a while? Remember the joy of catching a fish again for free!
Become an ambassador to the sport; take a friend fishing for the first time.
Invite a friend to New York to fish.
Take a spouse or significant other fishing.
Take the family fishing…and don’t forget the grandparents!

Outdoor Community Ropes Course
2022-06-21 17:00 - 19:00 | Clark Sports Center, 124 Co Rd 52, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Try out all 19 different challenges on the Outdoor Community Ropes Course at the Clark Sports Center.

$20 for members, $40 for non-members. For more information, contact Heather Henderson by calling 607/547-2800 ext. 124.
For ages 12 and older. Max weight 250 pounds

Free Fishing Clinic at Neahwa Park
2022-06-19 11:00 - 15:00 | Neahwa Park, Bertus Lauren Drive, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
The Dave Brandt Chapter of Trout Unlimited will offer its Father’s Day Fishing Clinic at Hodges Pond in Neahwa Park in Oneonta. Catch and release. Kids’ Fishing Derby

Paddle and Pull: Silver Lake
2022-06-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Silver Lake, Silver Lake Road, New Berlin, NY, 13411, United States
Silver Lake is a beautiful lake with an invasive species problem. Join OCCA and members of the Silver Lake community as we work on ridding the lake of water chestnut and European frog-bit, two highly invasive aquatic plants. At the request of the community, only OCCA canoes will be allowed on the lake, so sign up for your space early! Dress to get wet and muddy, bring sunscreen and a hat. Lunch will be provided. Please register using the form below. Meet at 162 Shore Drive, New Berlin. Please use this map link.
Register at: https://occainfo.org/calendar/paddle-and-pull-silver-lake-5/
Participating in this event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet

On the Trail of Art
2022-06-12 09:00 - 16:00 | Basswood Pond State Forest, 500 Conservation Road, Burlington, NY, 13315, United States
Butternut Valley Alliance presents a free annual Arts Festival in Basswood Pond State Forest in Burlington, NY. Reserve your spot to view this Gallery in the Forest an easy walk on a 3/4 mile trail featuring:

Student artists from Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris Central Schools
Professional and local artists
Art demonstrations and participation art
Strolling performance artists
Plein Art Painters

To register and for more information go to www.ButternutValleyAlliance.org
Participating in this unique event counts toward one of 8 featured activities in the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.
Student artwork hanging at the 2021 On the Trail of Art at Texas Schoolhouse State Forest

On the Trail of Art
2022-06-11 11:00 - 18:00 | Basswood Pond State Forest, 500 Conservation Road, Burlington, NY, 13315, United States
Butternut Valley Alliance presents a free annual Arts Festival in Basswood Pond State Forest in Burlington, NY. Reserve your spot to view this Gallery in the Forest an easy walk on a 3/4 mile trail featuring:

Student artists from Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris Central Schools
Professional and local artists
Art demonstrations and participation art
Strolling performance artists
Plein Art Painters

To register and for more information go to www.ButternutValleyAlliance.org
Participating in this unique event counts toward one of 8 featured activities in the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.

Forest Rebirth: Basswood Pond Hike
2022-06-11 09:00 - 11:00 | Basswood Pond State Forest, 500 Conservation Road, Burlington, NY, 13315, United States
Two years ago, a large spruce plantation was logged as part of Basswood Pond State Forest’s ongoing management. Join the Otsego County Conservation Association for a hike to the area where we’ll observe how nature restores itself. We’ll look at the plants, insects, birds and wildlife that make this new environment their home, and study surrounding areas of the forest for a hint at what’s to come. Meet at the main parking area on Conservation Road. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet. Free, but pre-registration is required.
This hike coincides with the opening of “On the Trail of Art”, a special exhibition of artwork sponsored by the Butternut Valley Alliance. Enjoy the walk, then stay for the art!
Register for the OCCA hike at https://occainfo.org/calendar/forest-rebirth-basswood-pond/
please note that On the Trail of Art also requires advance registration https://www.butternutvalleyalliance.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=791986&module_id=483824
Both events count toward the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.

Frog-bit Friday
2022-06-10 10:00 - 13:00 | New York
Go butt-deep in the swamp to help prevent the spread invasive species! Join the Otsego County Conservation Association as we wade into Clarke Pond in Springfield in an effort to eliminate European frog-bit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) from the pond, and to prevent it from spreading to other water bodies, including nearby Otsego Lake.
European frog-bit is a highly invasive aquatic plant capable of disrupting our local ecosystems. Please note this is strenuous work that involves wading through deep mud. You will get wet and muddy!
You will receive specific instructions on where to meet as we get closer to the date.
Register in advance at https://occainfo.org/calendar/frog-bit-friday/

Aquatic Invasive Species Webinar
2022-06-08 19:00 - 20:00 | online
Clean, Drain, Dry: Easy Steps to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

This New York Invasive Species Awareness Week, join CRISP staff the evening of Wednesday June 8th, from 7-8 pm, for an information webinar to learn about aquatic invasive species (AIS)! We’ll cover common and emerging invasive plants and animals, how they might spread around and between waterbodies, and simple steps you can take to identify them and prevent their spread.
Email Dan Snider-Nerp at dsnider-nerp@catskillcenter.org to register, or if you have any questions!
Zoom meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87274519267
Meeting ID: 872 7451 9267
Photo credit: California State Park Division of Boating and Waterways

Paddle & Pull: Goodyear Lake
2022-06-05 13:00 - 16:00 | Portlandville Fishing Access Site, Route 28, Portlandville, NY, 13834, United States
Join the Otsego County Conservation Association to get an early jump on water chestnut on Goodyear Lake.
Meet at the State Fishing access site on Route 28 in Portlandville.
Bring your own canoe/kayak or borrow one from OCCA. Registration required. This event counts toward the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.
Register at: https://occainfo.org/calendar/paddle-and-pull-goodyear-lake-9/

Summer Festival at Canoe & Kayak
2022-06-04 10:00 - 18:00 | Canoe and Kayak Rentals and Sales, 2828 Route 28, Portlandville, New York, 13834
Canoe and Kayak Rentals and Sales in Portlandville is having a Festival.
FREE kayak and SUP rentals from 10-12, first come first serve! Giveaways all day, gear demos.There will be a ribbon cutting for their new building at 11am. They are partnering with Otsego County Relay for Life to help raise awareness and money for the American Cancer Society.

Brookwood Spring Clean-up
2022-06-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Have Fun! Do Good! Pitch In to Get Beautiful Brookwood Point Ready for Everyone to Enjoy During the 2022 Season!
Join the Otsego Land Trust (OLT) in this fun outdoor event! Everyone is welcome regardless of age, experience or skill level. No amount of time is too little.
Key Info

No Time Requirement
We welcome those who can spend just a few minutes helping to those who can stay the entire duration

All Ages
Adults and children

No Gardening Experience Necessary
There will be tasks for everyone to complete, from child to adult

OLT Provides: Tools, Guidance, and Refreshments.

Rain or Shine
Please dress appropriately for the weather.

RSVP Requested (to ensure there are enough tools and snacks for all)
Please contact Marcie
email: Marcie@otsegolandtrust.org / phone: 607-547-2366 (x103)
Participating in this event counts as one of the 8 activities in the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.

Race the Lake Marathon, Half-Marathon & 5K
2022-06-04 08:00 - 14:00 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
The 26.2 race will begin at 8:00am, starting and ending at Glimmerglass State Park. The 13.1 race will begin at 8:00am, starting on State Highway 80, near the Fenimore Art Museum. The 5k race will begin at 9:00am in Glimmerglass State Park. All races finish together in Glimmerglass State Park. This year, Race the Lake has teamed with America’s VetDogs to raise funds and awareness for this outstanding cause. America’s VetDogs supports our veterans and first responders. Their mission is “To help those who have served our country honorably live with dignity and independence.”

Race Cost
26.2 Runner
Non-refundable entry fee is $65 per person if received on or before May 31, or $80 per person if received after June 1.
13.1 Runner
Non-refundable entry fee is $55 per person if received on or before May 31, or $70 per person if received after June 1.
5k Runner
Non-refundable entry fee is $20 per person.
Enter the 5k as a stand alone race or team up with a marathon runner! Both racers will have their finish times combined for a total time.
Race T-Shirt
Entrants who pre-register by May 5 will receive a commemorative T-shirt. Entrants registering on the day of the race will receive a T-shirt if available.

Race Registration
Register online, at the Clark Sports Center or download the entry form and mail it to The Clark Sports Center, Attn: Doug McCoy, P.O. Box 850, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Volunteer at the Race
For more information or have interest in helping us out, please contact Matt Phillips, either by email at phillipsm@clarksportscenter.com or by phone at (607) 547-2800, ext. 130.

Learn to Kayak
2022-05-21 09:00 - 17:00 | SUNY Delhi, SUNY Delhi Pool (Kunsela Hall) 649 Bronco Drive, Delhi, New York, 13753
Introduction to Kayaking course

Register Here: https://app.geckoform.com/public/…
This course is for beginning paddlers and covers skills to help paddlers safely and enjoyably kayak on rivers. This course is appropriate for all kayak craft, including traditional decked kayaks, inflatables and sit on tops. It is assumed the boats will be paddled solo.
This course is open to the public as well as SUNY Delhi Staff, Faculty and Students: required age 14 and up (participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian). Participants must be able to swim the length of the pool and feel comfortable putting their head under water.
The first portion of the course will take place at the SUNY Delhi pool; the second portion will take place on a local river.
Topics covered for this course will include: personal preparation, equipment, strokes maneuvers, safety and rescue, the paddling environment, and river running.
Cost: $89/person
Includes:
– Equipment to use day of (Kayaks, paddles, life jackets)
– Instructional information/handouts
– Boxed lunch will be provided (6” sub with lettuce and tomato, mayo on the side. All come with fresh piece of fruit, cookies, bag of chips and bottle of water)
Registration Deadline: Monday, May 16, 2022
Course starting location: SUNY Delhi Pool (Kunsela Hall) 649 Bronco Drive, Delhi NY 13753
Prerequisite: None (Beginner Level)
Course Ratio: 1 Instructor to every 5 students (2:10)
Instructors: David Deforest & Eric Laine
Location: SUNY Delhi Pool to local river
Kayaks provided & LUNCH INCLUDED for $89 a person.
Taught by two SUNY Delhi Professors from the Science, Recreation & Sport Department, the course begins with learning basic skills at the SUNY Delhi Pool and then moves to the river nearby.
Please call 607.746.4545 or go to https://www.delhi.edu/ceps/events.php to register

Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk
2022-05-21 08:30 - 14:00 | Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston, NY, 13335
The ninth annual Splash Path 5k family-fun paint run and walk will start and end at Pathfinder Village in Edmeston. The event will raise funds to help grow the Pathfinder Produce Mobile Market that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables to area communities and provides meaningful work opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities.
The Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk features a flat scenic route, non-toxic color stations, and pre- and post-run family festivities, including a ZUMBA warm-up session, live bands, food truck vendors, and craft and home business vendors. Each pre-registered participant will receive a tee shirt and goodie bag. Please note that bicycles and dogs are not allowed on the route.
Register at: https://raceroster.com/events/2022/59038/splash-path-2022

Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk
2022-05-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
The 2022 Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk at Gilbert Lake State Park resumes this year, in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Central Region. Participants will meet at the beach area at 10 AM.
The walk is approximately 2 hours in the Park on easy to medium terrain and will be led by DOAS member and local plant expert Connie Tedesco. Bring water, insect repellent, binoculars if on hand, and your curiosity!
This is a free program. Pre-registration is required at the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society website.

Brookwood Point Spring Clean Up
2022-05-17 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326

Brookwood Garden Spring Clean Up
2022-05-15 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookwood Point, 6000 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Otsego Land Trust (OLT) is in need of volunteers to help complete the annual spring garden clean up at Brookwood Point.
Sunday, May 15 from 1pm to 4pm. Brookwood Point is located at 6000 State Highway 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Please join us in our spring cleaning of the gardens at Brookwood Point and getting the property ready for the busy 2022 summer season. All are invited to join in the outdoor fun of this community service event. We welcome those who can spend just a few minutes helping to those who can stay the entire duration. No gardening experience is necessary – there will be tasks for everyone to complete, from child to adult. OLT will provide tools, guidance, and refreshments. This event will be held rain or shine, so please dress appropriately for the weather.

Please RSVP to Marcie at 607-547-2366 ext. 103 or marcie@otsegolandtrust.org – we want to ensure there are enough tools and snacks for all.
Participating in this volunteer event counts as one of the 8 required activities for the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.
OLT’s mission is to conserve the natural heritage of woodlands, farmlands and waters that sustain rural communities, promote public health, support wildlife diversity and inspire the human spirit. For more information about Otsego Land Trust, visit OtsegoLandTrust.org or call 607-547-2236.

Susquehanna River Paddle organized by Rotary District 7170
2022-05-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Susquehanna State Forest, 42.556314 N, 74.942386 W
Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Susquehanna State Forest, 42.556314 N, 74.942386 W
This is a paddle starting at 9 AM on May 15 at the Crumhorn Pond DEC Fishing Access site (off CR 35) and going to Portlandville and Goodyear Lake (same paddle as May 14). Life jackets properly worn are mandatory. Takeout is possible at Portlandville and Silliman Cove DEC Fishing Access site. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Canoe and Kayak Rental in Portlandville- http://www.canoeandkayakrental.com . Proper cleaning of watercraft to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) is important and more info is available at Invasive Species Boat Stewards – NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation.
This paddle is sponsored by Rotary District 7170 Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). There is a $10 dollar fee which covers both days. Youth under 18 years old with an accompanying adult and scouts are free.
All paddler levels welcome
Note: Do not go to Crumhorn Lake!
For more information contact Kevin Millar at kjmilow@yahoo.com or 607-687-3263
To get a register form & waiver please contact Jeff Smith, jsmith1532@aol.com or call 607-754-0673. You will receive an email or phone call at a later date to verify final details of the event
Along with these two events in Otsego County, Rotary District 7170 is sponsoring an Apalachin to Owego paddle on May 21 and and Owego to Sayre paddle on May 22. For more information see https://rotarydistrict7170.org

Susquehanna River Paddle organized by Rotary District 7170
2022-05-14 09:00 - 11:00 | Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Susquehanna State Forest, 42.556314 N, 74.942386 W
Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Susquehanna State Forest, 42.556314 N, 74.942386 W
This is a paddle starting at 9 AM on May 14 and 15 at the Crumhorn Pond DEC Fishing Access site (off CR 35) and going to Portlandville and Goodyear Lake (same paddle both days). Life jackets properly worn are mandatory. Takeout is possible at Portlandville and Silliman Cove DEC Fishing Access site. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Canoe and Kayak Rental in Portlandville- http://www.canoeandkayakrental.com . Proper cleaning of watercraft to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) is important and more info is available at Invasive Species Boat Stewards – NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation.
This paddle is sponsored by Rotary District 7170 Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). There is a $10 dollar fee which covers both days. Youth under 18 years old with an accompanying adult and scouts are free.
All paddler levels welcome
Note: Do not go to Crumhorn Lake!
For more information contact Kevin Millar at kjmilow@yahoo.com or 607-687-3263
To get a register form & waiver please contact Jeff Smith, jsmith1532@aol.com or call 607-754-0673. You will receive an email or phone call at a later date to verify final details of the event
Along with these two events in Otsego County, Rotary District 7170 is sponsoring an Apalachin to Owego paddle on May 21 and and Owego to Sayre paddle on May 22. For more information see https://rotarydistrict7170.org/event/susquehanna-river-paddle–1/

Early Birds at Mohican
2022-05-14 07:00 - 09:00 | Mohican Farm/OCCA offices, 7207 St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
With a mix of fields, woods, gardens and lakeshore, Mohican Farm is an excellent place for birding. Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Co-President, Becky Gretton leads this early morning walk at Mohican Farm in search of the early birds. This walk is suitable for beginners and experts alike! Bring binoculars, bird guide and be prepared for any weather (and plan for walking in wet grass). Program is free, but pre-registration is required at occainfo.org . Attendance is limited to 20.

I Love My Park Day (various sites in Otsego County)
2022-05-07 | New York
Save the Date for I Love My Park Day and help improve Otsego County’s parks and trails. Sign up to help out at Gilbert Lake State Park, Betty and Wilbur David State Park, and other community sites at Parks & Trails New York. Participating in I Love My Park Day counts as a featured activity for the Spring Octet!

Lordsland Preserve: New Trail Opening and Forest Hike
2022-04-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Lordsland Preserve Doc Ahlers/Blue Trail, 227 Doc Ahlers Road, Cherry Valley, New York, 13320
Join Otsego Land Trust and our partners from Otsego County Conservation Association and Otsego 2000 as we celebrate the re-opening of the Doc Ahlers Road trail at Lordsland Preserve.

The program will start with a short acknowledgement and special “limb” cutting to open the new trail. Thanks to funding raised from Henry Horvath’s epic Denali Mountain expedition, Otsego Outdoors has funded two new kiosks (built by SUNY Delhi Construction Technology & Management Department), a roadside sign, and new trail markers.

The guided hike will take participants on a 0.75 mile route along the newly marked trail through a diverse forest landscape. This will be a moderate level hike down a gradual slope to the wetlands and beaver ponds at the valley floor. Hikers will then ascend back up the slope through northern hardwood forest, crossing over several springs and streams.

Hikers should be prepared for uneven terrain in a few places and mud. Appropriate footwear and hiking poles are recommended. Water and snacks will be provided for participants either before or after the hike. Please be advised that there is little or no cell phone service in this area. This is a rain or shine event.

Please RSVP by emailing marcie@otsegolandtrust.org, or calling 607-547-2366 (ext. 103).
Lordsland Preserve is owned and protected by Otsego Land Trust for public enjoyment. Learn more about Lordsland Preserve and other Land Trust protected properties at otsegolandtrust.org

Attending this event counts toward one of the eight activities of the Otsego Outdoors Spring Octet.
