The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is inviting public comment on a draft management plan for more than 7,000 acres of public land in Steuben, Schuyler, and Chemung counties.
The Great Divide Unit Management Plan outlines environmental goals for six state forests and three wildlife management areas, aiming to protect habitat diversity and endangered species while allowing sustainable use of resources.
“This plan establishes management goals and objectives for the next decade,” said DEC Region 8 Director Timothy P. Walsh. “Public input is essential to help make decisions on managing these areas for public enjoyment and resource protection.”
A public meeting will be held on July 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Horseheads Free Library. The public can submit written comments until August 18 by email or by mailing them to the DEC’s State Land Management office in Bath.
The draft plan includes timber sales, grassland and wetland maintenance, and the removal of invasive species. Properties covered include Erwin Mountain and Maple Hill State Forests, and Catharine Creek Marsh and Big Flats Wildlife Management Areas.
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