Trail Repair Days at Robert Woodruff Outdoor Learning Center
2025-06-20 - 2025-06-21 | Robert Woodruff Learning Center, NY-80, Jordanville, NY, 13361, United States
The Van Hornesville Community Corporation needs volunteers to help with repairs and upgrades to the Robert Woodruff Outdoor Learning Center, located behind Owen D. Young Central School in Van Hornesville.
Volunteers are needed to restore the stairs leading to the waterfalls, repair bridges, and clear trails.
Shovels, sturdy shoes or boots and work gloves encouraged.
Lunch will be provided at noon both days. Please let them know you’re coming by emailing info@vhccorp.org or by leaving a message at 315/522-3131.
Work will be done between 9 am and 4 pm on June 20 and 21, with lunch served at noon.

Hike with ADK: Mud Lake
2025-06-21 | Robert V. Riddell State Park, NY-28, just north of I-88 Exit 17, Davenport, New York, 13750
On June 21st the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK) hike will be from Riddell State Park south to Mud Lake and finishing at Pine Lake. The hike will be approximately 5.5 miles with about 850 feet of elevation gain. This hike requires shuttling cars to provide transportation from both ends of the hike.
Hike Leader: Tom Austin 607-435-8107
REGISTRATION LINK ( https://forms.gle/DUk1jyimXN8kaMKk8 )

Saturday Hike with ADK: Mud Lake Trail
2025-06-21 | New York
On June 21st the ADK hike will be from Riddell State Park south to Mud Lake and finishing at Pine Lake. The hike will be approximately 5.5 miles with about 850 feet of elevation gain. This hike requires shuttling cars to provide transportation from both ends of the hike.
Registration Required.
Details on the Summer Hikes Page: https://susqadk.org/saturday-hikes/

Summer Foraging Walk with AC Stauble-Hill
2025-06-22 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | New York
Experience the magic of summer through the lens of a seasoned forager! OCCA invites you to join herbalist and farmer AC Stauble of Cohosh Creek Herb Farm and Sanctuary in West Edmeston for an immersive foraging walk through her diverse and ecologically rich farm. Participants will take a garden walk and woods walk with a focus on native plants and wild edibles.. Whether you’re a budding herbalist, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about the edible and medicinal plants growing all around you, this walk promises to be both educational and inspiring. Come prepared for a sensory-rich journey that reconnects you with the natural world.

Sign up in advance at occainfo.org

New York Susquehanna Basin Water Trail Ribbon-Cutting
2025-06-26 10:45 - 12:00 | Fish Road Launch, Fish Road, Cooperstown, NY, 13326
Join us on — or off — the water!
Paddlers will put in at the Fish Road Launch at Lakefront Park in Cooperstown and paddle through a ribbon to officially open the water trail at Council Rock! Paddlers should gather on the water near Council Rock around 10:45 am, ribbon cutting at 11 am.
You can also join us at Council Rock Park to watch the boats. We’re inviting media and would love as many colorful kayaks and canoes as possible on the water for this photo op.
RSVP FOR THE RIBBON CUTTING HERE
If you have your own boat, bring it! We’ll gather near Council Rock at the mouth of Otsego Lake around 3:45pm.
If you’d like to rent a boat for the event, stakeholder Brent Baysinger of Canoe & Kayak Rentals and Sales will be offering a special rental pricing that day:

$25/single kayak
$35/tandem kayak or canoe.
Price includes delivery, PFD and paddle. Supplies are limited.
Contact Brent to rent a boat

Free Fishing Day in New York State
2025-06-28, 2025-06-29 | New York
Free fishing days offer residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* to fish without a freshwater fishing license (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!).
2025 Free Fishing Days Schedule

February 15-16 (President’s Day Weekend)
June 28-29
September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
November 11 (Veterans Day)

These days offer the perfect opportunity to try out fishing for the first time, to get back into the sport, or to take a friend or the whole family along to fish! Even though a license is not needed, all other fishing regulations apply.

Cooperstown Culvert Assessments (volunteer)
2025-06-28 09:00 - 12:30 | New York
Be part of an exciting community science effort in Otsego County! Join OCCA and some of our Culvert Team leaders to assess the conditions of culverts near Otsego Lake. If you like this type of volunteer work, you have the option to join one of our culvert teams as an assistant for other assessments throughout the summer!
What are the Culvert Teams Doing?
This summer, Culvert Team volunteers will hit the road to assess stream‑road crossings (culverts) across the watersheds of Otsego Lake, Canadarago Lake, and Butternut Creek. The focus of these assessments is to understand if culverts/bridges are conducive to aquatic travel, but we also collect data on the state of the structures themselves. The data collected determines if culverts allow for organisms such as fish, turtles, and other aquatic wildlife to navigate our local streams and tributaries.
Event Details:

🗓 Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025

📍 Location: South West side of Otsego Lake Watershed, official meeting site TBD.

🧢 What to Bring: Waders or tall waterproof boots if you have them, water/snacks, sunscreen/bug spray.

⏱ When: 3-4 hours, 9 AM – 12:30 PM

🌟 RSVP / Info: Sign up here or email volunteer@occainfo.org

Why This Matters
Your participation means real-world impact. The collected data is open source and can be used by OCCA, the DEC, County Highway Department, Soil & Water Conservation District, and more to apply for grants, plan culvert repairs and replacements, and enhance stream health and wildlife passage. An improperly designed culvert doesn’t just affect wildlife; it also can contribute to erosion and climate-related disasters.

Summer Mushroom Walk with Shane Gardner
2025-06-29 14:00 - 16:00 | New York
Join Us for a Summer Mushroom Foraging Walk with Expert Shane Gardner
Sunday, June 29 | 2:00 PM
Discover the fascinating world of wild mushrooms with foraging expert Shane Gardner on a guided summer walk through the woods. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned mushroom hunter, this event offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of edible and medicinal fungi in their natural habitat.
Shane will share his extensive knowledge of local mushroom species, teaching participants how to safely identify key characteristics, understand habitats, and distinguish edible varieties from toxic lookalikes. You’ll also learn about the health benefits and culinary uses of various medicinal mushrooms.
This hands-on experience is perfect for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, herbalists, and anyone interested in reconnecting with the natural world.
What to Bring:

Comfortable walking shoes

Weather-appropriate clothing

A notebook or field guide (optional)

Basket or bag for collecting (optional)

Location details will be provided upon registration.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early!

Hike with ADK at Arnold Lake State Forest
2025-07-01 09:45 - 12:00 | Arnold Lake State Forest, 767 County Road 46, Hartwick, NY, 13820, United States
All welcome to take a free guided hike with members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK). Meet at 9:45 am for info and check in, hike begins at 10 am. See susqadk.org/outing-schedule for more details and information on where to meet.
The Chapter offers Tuesday hikes weekly and longer hikes once a month on Saturdays.

Summer Bog Walk with OCCA at Greenwoods Conservancy
2025-07-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Greenwoods Conservancy, 800 Zachow Road, Hartwick, NY, 13348
Donna Vogler, OCCA President and retired biology professor will lead a 1.4 mile nature walk of several habitats of Greenwoods Conservancy. First will be a section along a treeline with vernal pools and native deciduous trees. Then through a hemlock woods down to the beautifully preserved Cranberry Bog where salamanders and carnivorous plants may be spotted. An uphill stretch winds through mixed woods and a return via a couple of constructed marshes. Park at the silo barn. Space is limited, please sign up at occainfo.org

Susquehanna River Clean Up Oneonta
2025-07-07 - 2025-07-12 | Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Road, Oneonta, NY, 13861, United States
The Susquehanna River Clean-Up, historically a joint project of the Cooperstown Lions Club, the Rotary Club of Cooperstown, Otsego 2000, and the Biological Field Station/SUNY Oneonta Dive team is expanding this year thanks to a grant received by OCCA.
The Dave Brandt Chapter of Trout Unlimited will be leading a clean up initiative between Colliersville and Fortin Park in Oneonta. For more information, please reach out to Steve Eichler.

OCCA is also seeking organizers or volunteers for clean ups of the Susquehanna in Milford, Portlandville and Colliersville. Debris drop sites are needed for these three areas too. There will also be a clean up on July 12 at Compton Bridge in Cooperstown.
Please sign up in advance. Any questions, please contact Kendall Jacob at OCCA.

Susquehanna River Clean Up Cooperstown - Fish Rd Boat Launch
2025-07-12 08:00 | Compton Bridge Conservation Area, 184 County Highway 11C, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
8th Annual Susquehanna River Clean-Up, July 12, 2025
Fish Rd Boat Launch, Otsego Lake
24 Lake St, Cooperstown, NY 13326
The Susquehanna River Clean-Up, historically a joint project of the Cooperstown Lions Club, the Rotary Club of Cooperstown, Otsego 2000, and the Biological Field Station / SUNY Oneonta Dive team is expanding this year thanks to a grant received by OCCA. In addition to the Cooperstown clean-up, smaller clean-up initiatives will be held in Milford, Portlandville, Colliersville, and Oneonta.
Volunteers will be parking at the Bassett Parking lot behind Bassett Hall on Susquehanna St across from Walnut St. The gate will be open starting at 7:45am, and volunteers will be shuttled from there to the Fish Rd Boat Launch on Otsego Lake to help with clean-up efforts.
Volunteers are needed both in and out of the water. Tasks include working with the BFS Dive Team to pull trash from near the docks, guiding debris-laden rafts and kayaks back to the shoreline collection point, assisting with loading debris into trailers and transporting it to the transfer station, manning the refreshments table, and helping with documentation.
There also will be clean-ups in Oneonta, organized by the Dave Brandt Chapter of Trout Unlimited. For more information on that clean up, which will take place July 7-12, please contact Steve Eichler.
OCCA is also seeking organizers or volunteers for clean ups of the Susquehanna in Milford, Portlandville and Colliersville. Debris drop sites are needed for these three areas too.
Please sign up in advance. Any questions, please contact Kendall Jacob at OCCA.

Turning Stones: Discovering the Life of Water with aquatic ecologist Declan McCabe
2025-07-13 14:00 - 15:30 | SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station, 5838 State Highway 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Discover the Hidden Life of Water with Declan McCabe
Join aquatic ecologist Declan McCabe for an engaging and interactive presentation featuring a slide show and live aquatic macroinvertebrates. This free program dives into the fascinating world of freshwater ecosystems, exploring:

How the unique properties of water make life possible
The differences between flowing and standing water—and the distinct species that inhabit rivers vs. lakes
Life on the surface: the remarkable adaptations of creatures that live on top of the water
Safe, practical ways to reduce mosquito populations around your home
Budget-friendly tools and tips for exploring aquatic life close to home
Simple actions anyone can take to protect watersheds and improve water quality

🧭 Please register for this free program .
This program is presented in collaboration with the Biological Field Station and will be held at their campus -5838 State Highway 80, Cooperstown
About Declan McCabe
Declan McCabe sees the natural world with a biologist’s eye and a storyteller’s heart. To him, every patch of soil, fallen log, or puddle is a thriving microcosm waiting to be explored. A professor of biology at Saint Michael’s College and a regular contributor to Northern Woodlands, Connecticut Woodlands, and The Outside Story, McCabe is passionate about making complex science engaging for learners of all ages.
His newest book, Turning Stones: Discovering the Life of Water (Down East Books, 2024), invites readers to discover the unseen life teeming in our rivers—if only we take the time to look. Based in South Burlington, McCabe can often be found walking along the Winooski River, where, as he says, “slowing down and observing carefully reveals diverse life in unexpected places.”

Hike with ADK at Basswood Pond State Forest
2025-07-15 09:45 - 12:00 | Basswood Pond State Forest, 500 Conservation Road, Burlington, NY, 13315, United States

Summer Nature Hike at Table Rock Trails
2025-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Table Rock Trails at Hartwick College, Hartwick Drive, Oneonta, NY, 13820
OCCA Family Hike – Table Rock Trails
Join OCCA Assistant Director Shelby MacLeish for a scenic summer hike at Hartwick College’s Table Rock Trails. We’ll follow a 1.2-mile loop, exploring unique rock formations and taking in sweeping views of Oneonta from above. This free, family-friendly hike is open to all ages and experience levels.
Come enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature and community!
See the directions below from the Otsego Outdoors website:
From the main Hartwick College entrance on West Street in Oneonta, take Hartwick Drive to upper campus. Drive past the Binder Physical Education Center parking lot. Look for the trailhead parking sign on the left designating where the public can park when visiting Table Rock. GPS for parking area is: 42.454747, -75.075533

Sign up at occainfo.org

Two Creeks Trail Opening
2025-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Morris Central School, 65 Main Street, Morris, NY
Celebrate the completion of Phase I of Two Creeks Trail, the first half-mile of a three-mile loop along the Calhoun and Butternut Creeks. Truly a community effort, this project is undertaken by Butternut Valley Alliance (BVA), Morris Historical Society, Morris Rotary, Butternut Valley Garden Club and Morris Central School. The trail is another link in BVA’s goal of a valley-long trail system.
Interpretative signage was developed by MCS Environmental Science students with assistance from the Morris Historical Society. The signs, funded through an Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District grant, cover a wide range of topics. Topography of the creek and floodplains are explained as well as historical uses of the creek and surrounding area. Environmental concerns are raised such as impacts to its ecosystem and how to evaluate its health. Signage
also provides recommendations for maintaining the waterway’s well being such as planting and maintaining pollinator-attracting flora. Intended as an instructional device and to promote discussion, each signs poses a question about its topic.

This is event is part of the Morris Central School Community Fun Day. All welcome!

Saturday ADK Hike at Thacher State Park
2025-07-19 | New York
On July 19th the ADK hike is at John Boyd Thacher State Park, 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186. We will hike the Indian Ladder Trail followed by a loop that will include Hang Glider’s Cliff and High Point. Parts of this hike are on the Long Path. The distance is about 7 miles with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. Learn more about the park here: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/thacher/
Susquehanna ADK
Saturday Hike Series 2025

The chapter is offering seven longer all-day hikes on the third Saturday of each month, April through October. Below is a brief description of each hike and the leaders’ contact information, if you have questions.
These hikes require participants to plan accordingly. Bring a packed lunch, snacks, and water to last the whole excursion. Dress appropriately and bring equipment based upon the weather and hike conditions.
These hikes require pre-registration and will be limited to approximately 20 participants.
The hike leader will provide detailed instructions beginning about three weeks prior to the hike date for those registered.

Hike leader: Jim Austin 607-437-5734.
REGISTRATION LINK (https://forms.gle/2MbzAdWC6y6R5m838)

Photo shows Tom Walsh at Thacher State Park. He hiked the Long Path from there to New York City in the Summer of 2024 to raise funds for Otsego Outdoors and Bassett Cancer Institute.

Hike with ADK at Glimmerglass State Park
2025-07-22 09:45 - 12:00 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
All welcome to take a guided hike on the Sleeping Lion Trail with members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK). Meet at 9:45 am for info and check in, hike begins at 10 am. See susqadk.org/outing-schedule for more details and information on where to meet.
The Chapter offers Tuesday hikes weekly and longer hikes once a month on Saturdays.

Color My World Nature Walk
2025-07-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Hwy 11, Hartwick, NY, 13348
OCCA is joining Hartwick’s summer reading program on Friday, July 25 at 10. If you are in the village of Hartwick, stop by for this fun and free program at 10 am.
Color My World: A Guided Nature Walk
Join us for a vibrant exploration of the natural world as we discover the colors that shape our environment. On this guided walk, we’ll slow down and take a closer look at the many hues found in nature—from the rich greens of summer leaves to the bright pops of wildflowers, the soft blues of the sky, and the earthy tones beneath our feet. This walk is suitable for all ages and is a great opportunity to awaken your senses and see the outdoors in a new light.

Open House Biological Field Station
2025-07-31 16:00 - 19:00 | SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station, 5838 State Highway 80, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
The SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station will hold an open house at its Cooperstown campus, featuring short presetations at 5 pm, boat tours, lab tours, and hands-on stations where you can learn about current projects. Light refreshments

Registration encouraged.

Mushroom walk with OCCA
2025-08-03 14:00 - 16:00 | Thayer Farm (SUNY Biological Field Station), 7027 State Hwy 80, Springfield, NY, United States
Discover the fascinating world of fungi with OCCA and certified mushroom forager Shane Gardner during our next educational mushroom walk on Sunday, August 3 at 2 p.m. As part of our monthly series, this two-hour guided walk offers a hands-on opportunity to explore local woodlands while learning how to identify wild mushrooms in the field. Participants will search for a variety of species, discuss their ecological roles, and sharpen their observational skills. Participants are not foraging for the table in this program, but can bring a basket or bag to gather during the class for the q & a at the end.

This event will be held at the Upland Interpretive Center at Thayer Farm, 7027 State Route 80, Cooperstown, NY.
Sign up in advance at occainfo.org

Hike with ADK at Gilbert Lake State Park
2025-08-05 09:45 - 12:00 | Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY, 13796, United States
All welcome to take a guided hike on the Twin Fawns Trail with members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK). Meet at 9:45 am for info and check in, hike begins at 10 am. See susqadk.org/outing-schedule for more details and information on where to meet.
The Chapter offers Tuesday hikes weekly and longer hikes once a month on Saturdays.

iSPY Invasive Species Paddle
2025-08-08 10:00 - 13:00 | Crumhorn Fishing Access Site, H345+P3, Maryland, New York
Ever wonder whether those yellow flowers on the river are good or bad? Wonder no more! Join OCCA and Sarah Coney, Aquatic Invasive Species Manager, from the Catskills Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) for an informative and fun paddle where we’ll ‘Sus’ out the invaders in the Susquehanna River. We’ll focus on invasive plants and animal species found in the river, learn how to identify them, and discuss how they got here, what they do, and what we can do about them. All while enjoying a leisurely, 3-mile paddle!
We’ll start at the Crumhorn Fishing Access Site in Maryland, NY, and end at the Portlandville Fishing Access Site. This section of river is slow, meandering, and friendly to all levels of boating experience. Bring your own canoe or kaya. If you do not have one of your own, visit Canoe & Kayak Rentals and Sales in Portlandville (607-286-7349) for information on renting one.
Program is free, but pre-registration is required. Please visit https://www.catskillinvasives.com/events/2025/8/8/ispy-invasive-species-paddle-with-crisp-occa to sign up!

Hike with ADK: Whaupaunaucau State Forest
2025-08-16 | Whaupaunaucau State Forest, Norwich, NY
Susquehanna ADK
Saturday Hike Series 2025

The chapter is offering seven longer all-day hikes on the third Saturday of each month, April through October. Below is a brief description of each hike and the leaders’ contact information, if you have questions.
These hikes require participants to plan accordingly. Bring a packed lunch, snacks, and water to last the whole excursion. Dress appropriately and bring equipment based upon the weather and hike conditions.
These hikes require pre-registration and will be limited to approximately 20 participants.
The hike leader will provide detailed instructions beginning about three weeks prior to the hike date for those registered.

August 16th – Whaupaunaucau State Forest
https://dec.ny.gov/places/whaupaunaucau-state-forest
On August 16th the ADK hike is at the Whaupaunaucau State Forest, Norwich, NY. The hike is around the 5 mile loop. The trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route, with 518 feet of elevation gain.
Hike Leader: Tom Austin 607-435-8107
REGISTRATION LINK (https://forms.gle/62BrhtC9xEzDVzeW8)

Intro to Permaculture for the Queer Community (all welcome)
2025-08-16 15:00 - 18:00 | New York
Join OCCA and friends Rick O’Keefe and John Chanik for a welcoming, hands-on evening exploring permaculture—the practice of creating self-sustaining, ecologically balanced landscapes. Rooted in three core principles—care for people (including the queer community!), care for the earth, and sharing the abundance—permaculture offers a powerful framework for conservation and community connection.
This special event invites participants to:

Learn the basics of permaculture, including identifying edible wild plants

Tour a conservation property in restoration, featuring wetlands and a perennial vegetable garden

Optionally get involved with light stewardship activities like planting trees or prepping birdhouses

Conclude the evening with a shared potluck meal (please bring a dish to pass!)

We’re excited to build community while deepening our relationship with the land. RSVPs are appreciated so we can plan accordingly. The address will be sent out to those who RSVP. If you have any questions email OCCA director Amy Wyant at director@occainfo.org.
All are welcome! RSVP at occainfo.org

Land Navigation by Compass at Glimmerglass State Park
2025-08-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY, 13326, United States
Join James Simpson for a land navigation compass activity at Glimmerglass State Park. Jakes is a certified Adirondack guide and an Adirondack 46er.
Meet at the beach parking lot. Any questions please call the park office 607/547-8662.

Max is 40 people.

Hike with ADK at Emmons Pond Bog
2025-08-19 09:45 - 12:00 | Emmons Pond Bog Preserve, 2028 White Hill Road, Oneonta, NY, 13820, United States
All welcome to take a guided hike at Emmons Pond Bog with members of the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK). Meet at 9:45 am for info and check in, hike begins at 10 am. See susqadk.org/outing-schedule for more details and information on where to meet.
The Chapter offers Tuesday hikes weekly and longer hikes once a month on Saturdays.

August Nature Hike at Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
2025-08-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park, 133 Davis Road, Schenevus, New York, 12155
Join OCCA’s Assistant Director, Shelby MacLeish on August 22 for a guided hike at the scenic Betty and Wilber Davis State Park as we explore Andy’s Trail—a beautiful 2.7-mile loop that showcases the park’s varied and peaceful landscapes. This moderately easy trail winds through quiet woodlands, stretches across open fields with wide views, and passes a historic, weathered stone wall that hints at the land’s agricultural past. Along the way, we’ll talk about the natural and cultural features of the park, observe seasonal plants and wildlife, and enjoy the serenity of this lesser-known trail.
This is a great opportunity to connect with nature, ask questions, and get to know OCCA staff and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Please meet at the playground parking lot at 1 p.m. Comfortable shoes, water, and a sense of adventure are encouraged! We hope to see you there. Sign up at occainfo.org

Summer Harvest Festival and Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder
2025-08-23 | New York
The Butternut Valley Alliance will hold its Summer Harvest Festival and the Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder on August 23.
Sign up for the Gravel Grinder in advance, details to come!
