LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk Spring 2015 LOCALadk Magazine 51 contributes enormously to our economy in that it draws visitors. Community-based conservation promotes economic initiatives and economic development that both celebrates and protects healthy natural ecosystems. Community-based conservation also means that initiatives to protect the environment emerge from the community – from conversation between various stakeholders. The goal is that a broad swath of the community feel invested in the natural environment around them, and want to ensure its health. So, how is this true for Cycle Adirondacks? This is a program that's been in the works for nearly three years, since WCS was awarded an "I Love NY" grant. The specific route, and the itinerary of cultural gems that will get highlighted (including, for example, maple syrup production facilities, vineyards in the Tug Hill region, the North American Fiddlers' Hall of Fame…) was determined through discussion with community leaders. The value of Cycle Adirondacks for riders: For those of us who love seeing the spectacular views, empty back roads, and quiet beauty of this area from the seat of a bicycle, the appeal of Cycle Adirondacks seems self-evident. Biking allows a more intimate and in-depth experience of a place than motorized vehicles ever can. But this program is more than 'just' a week of biking 60 to 75 miles a day. As Doug Haney, Cycle Adirondacks Event Manager, put it – it's also a five-star resort experience. The cost of entry includes catered meals and plenty of snacks featuring fresh and regional ingredients, transportation of all baggage and belongings, tent set-up service (or shuttles to indoor accommodations if that's preferred!), and an abundance of personnel to ensure that body and bike and spirit are kept in the best of condition throughout the week. And at the end of each day riders enjoy free beer in the beer garden, music, vendors, massage… What makes this luxurious trip unique however, is the insight and education that scientists, naturalists, historians, community leaders, and others will be providing to deepen and enrich the experience of this landscape. The tour is not just for riders! Also planned, are a wide range of activities (kayaking, hiking, sight- seeing) for friends and loved ones of bikers who want to experience the tour, but would rather not push pedal all day long! The value of Cycle Adirondacks for our natural environment: The planned route will take riders from the high peaks area (the tour starts and finishes in Saranac Lake) down into the Black River Valley, over to the Tug Hill Plateau, and into the rich agricultural land of the St. Lawrence Valley. Coming back into the mountains, bikers will crest the highest point of the Adirondack dome, around Blue Mountain Lake. This route was chosen because it allows WCS to highlight connectivity in the landscapes – in particular, the watershed and also the forest corridors that connect the Adirondacks to other forested areas. Such corridors are crucial to sustaining healthy populations of far-ranging species like moose, bear, and bobcat. Riders will get to experience a wide range of ecosystems: Celebrating our 33rd Anniversary! 33rd Anniversary! Serving the Adirondacks from our 2 locations in Tupper Lake & Long Lake 518 - 359 - 3228 RaquetteRiverOutfi tters.com Free demos on site! O ering the nest canoes, kayaks, SUP boards, paddling accessories and camping equipment for rent and sale! Follow the river to an enchanted place. 7,000 sq. ft. of gallery-quality rustic furniture, designer accents, mountain resort wear, accessories, trinkets & pure joy! 292 Main St., North Creek, NY Abode interior service: Let us do the work to pull it all together, a little or a lot! 518.251.4461 Open daily at 9:30 am HudsonRiverTradingCo.com

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