Kudos to State Parks for its recently updated sustainability initiative, which strives to protect the environment, reduce energy consumption, and save money.
 
Among the initiative's highlights are plans to reduce the amount of mowed parkland - resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and annual savings on the purchase of gasoline and diesel fuel and reducing the use of pesticides where children are most often present, including beaches, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Parks & Trails New York is stepping up its advocacy efforts in support of increased funding for the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), particularly funding for stateside projects.  The LWCF has historically been a source of matching grants to state and municipal governments to acquire and develop outdoor recreational amenities. However, over the past several years, LWCF monies going to the states have dwindled.  In 2002, stateside LWCF funding totaled $140 million with New York's share being $7 million. In 2008, stateside funding had decreased to $23.1 million, with a scant $1.1 million for New York State.
 
We are now working in coalition with more than 50 organizations from across the country to advocate for increased funding for the LWCF. Read the testimony (House, Senate) urging Congress to provide $325 million in funding for the federal LWCF, $125 million for stateside funding and $125 million for the Forest Legacy program.  The coalition is recommending a $900 million appropriation for the LWCF by 2014 - the level of funding authorized by Congress in 1977. 

The Washington, Warren and Saratoga county region has all the ingredients to make it a sought after destination for the cycling tourist - beautiful mountains and lakes, multiple off-road and on-road trails, inviting villages, and a wealth of attractions, inns and restaurants.  Presently, trails and cycling may not be among the primary reasons that people visit, but the more than 50 people who attended the recent Bicyclists Bring Business! roundtable in Glens Falls hope to change that. The discussion was enriched by the wide variety of interests represented - tourist agencies, local government, bike shops, bike tour companies, health care providers, media, local inns, state and federal agencies, trail groups, civic organizations, and local businesses. The roundtable was presented by Parks & Trails New York and the New York State Canal Corporation. Read a summary of participants' comments online.

Nestled along the banks of Chautauqua Lake is the nostalgic Midway State Park. One of five remaining Trolley Parks, Midway received its National Register of Historic Places designation in March.     
 
The park was established a little over 100 years ago as picnic grounds. People would arrive by train, trolley car or steamboat to make use of the dining halls, dancing pavilion, baseball field, and beach. Today the park has 18 amusement rides that date back to the early 20th century, as well as its original picnic grove and beach. Its first roller coaster, made of wood and named "The Jack Rabbit" was built in 1924 and in use for only 20 years. The vintage "Alan Herschell Carousel" is still in use, however.
 
Midway Park is not only enticing for history buffs and modest thrill seekers, but also for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can dock their boats and enjoy the beach, or cast a line for a relaxing day of fishing. Dogs are allowed at Midway as long as they're kept on a leash. With amusement rides, a roller skating rink, and mini golf, the whole family can enjoy time at this state park.