DEC's These Lands Are For Everyone initiative is investing in improvements to create immersive, welcoming destinations on State lands that are accessible to and inclusive of the full spectrum of abilities, neurodiversity, ages, backgrounds, and identities.
Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Environmental Education Center: In partnership with the State Office of General Services, approximately 7,000 square feet of new construction and a climate-friendly renovation of the existing environmental education center will create a facility that enhances access to environmental education and outdoor recreation for everyone while also providing significant savings on long-term operating costs.
The new facility will contain spaces that are inclusive and welcoming for all. The project will include a dedicated space for accessibility equipment such as motorized scooters, a trail wheelchair, sensory tools and accessible ski equipment. Additional accessible features will be considered during the ongoing building design process. The renovations include a 1,400-square-foot multipurpose room for environmental meetings and presentations.
Memorial Trail at Zoar Valley Unique Area: The 2,978-acre Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area and Unique Area is one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse environmental areas in Western New York, known for spectacular sights created by a deep gorge, sheer cliffs, flowing waterfalls and dense forests.
The Memorial Trail at Zoar Valley Unique Area (formerly Valentine Flats) is a newly constructed trail that began in two phases starting in 2023. Phase 1 was completed in 2024 and thanks to $3.8 million in additional support from the Environmental Bond Act for Phase 2, the Memorial Trail will provide a fully accessible and safe experience along the gorge rim overlooking Cattaraugus Creek. The project includes multiple accessible amenities, including benches and parking, as well as educational signage designed to keep visitors on the trail and a safe distance from the gorge.
As part of the project planning, New York State closely engaged the local community and family members of those who have lost their lives at Zoar Valley. The Memorial Trail’s stone benches will honor those who died. In addition, the project includes the reconstruction of the Valentine Flats trail down into the gorge to improve access to Cattaraugus Creek and provide a critical rescue and access point for emergency personnel to further enhance public safety and the overall experience for visitors to Zoar Valley.
New public archery range at Black Creek Marsh Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in the Town Voorheesville, Albany County. The Black Creek Marsh WMA archery range is the first of 13 archery facilities to be constructed statewide with DEC’s five-year, $3.1 million federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration grant, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Conservation Investment, as well as state sources to provide safe, accessible, and high-quality opportunities for outdoor recreation.
