News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Lori O'Connell, 518-402-8000

DEC Recognizes National Disability Awareness Month

Fourth Annual Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Day

ALBANY, NY (10/02/2007; 1459)(readMedia)-- On Saturday, Oct. 6, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will host a family-friendly day of inclusive outdoor recreation activities at its Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Delmar from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include a scavenger hunt and an assortment of exhibits and demonstrations designed to encourage people of all abilities to explore the great outdoors.

DEC’s Universal Access Program highlights recent improvements to recreational facilities on state lands for accessible camping, fishing, boating, bird watching and exploration of natural areas. A new diorama will be unveiled that illustrates the features of a wheelchair accessible campsite and fishing pier.

Scott Remington, a member of DEC’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, will speak to visitors about his experiences as an Adirondack logger who, following a life-changing accident, has focused on making the most of his abilities and inspiring others. The story of Mr. Remington’s struggle to survive and live a meaningful life, losing his livelihood as a logger but retaining his connection with family, friends and nature, is the subject of a new book “Just an Accident,” by Amy Montgomery.

The featured activity is a scavenger hunt designed with clues on disability awareness and environmental education hidden throughout the grounds. The scavenger hunt brings together people of all ages and abilities for a fun, educational activity. There will be prizes for the winning team and favors for everyone who participates. Registration for the hunt is at 10:30 a.m.

Other activities include an opportunity to explore Five Rivers’ two accessible trails and take in the educational exhibits at the visitors’ center. Children and adults can enjoy meeting wildlife up close as a rehabilitator brings her animal friends. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day.

The Capital District Transportation Authority has donated a STAR bus to shuttle people requiring transportation to Five Rivers from the Park and Ride across from the Delaware Plaza. Buses will leave the Park and Ride at 9:30 a.m. and every 30 minutes throughout the day and return buses will run until 3:30 p.m.

All events are wheelchair accessible. Sign language interpretation and sighted guides will be available upon request. For further information, call Carole Fraser, DEC’s Access Coordinator at 518-402-9428.

For more information and directions to the event, visit the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov and search “Five Rivers Environmental Education Center” or call (518) 475-0291. This event is part of the “We all Chase the Same Dreams” series of events for Disability Awareness Month. Other events include the Universal Access Expo at Crossgates Mall on October 3, and a free film followed by a facilitated discussion at the Proctor’s Theatre from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.