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First Day Hikes: An active start to the new year

Editor2 days ago

224 1 minute read

Genesee Land Trust invited people of all ages and abilities for a special January 1st cocoa toast to celebrate the return of the fisher to Brookdale Preserve in Chili. The fisher – a very important member of the forest – was once hunted nearly to extinction for its thick dark fur. But now, thanks to decades of conservation, they’re finally starting to be seen again. The walk started on the Genesee Valley Greenway Trail at Brook Road with over 100 participants that could hike at their own pace up to four miles towards Black Creek, learning more about the fisher from signs posted along the way. Donations of nonperishable items were also collected at the event for the state’s food drive. Photos by Karen Fien.

Photos by Karen Fien

The Village of Brockport offered two First Day events through the On The Canals program. Inclusive Birding on the Canal was the morning walk and Inclusive Snowshoeing on the Erie Canal was offered in the afternoon. The snow didn’t cooperate but that didn’t stop people from coming out to hike instead. On the four-mile walk, participants were able to see the progress on the construction of the Brockport Loop Pedestrian Bridge that will link the SUNY campus to the canal path. Photos by Karen Fien.

First Day Hikes at Hamlin Beach State Park

It was a cold, windy, rainy New Year’s Day, and still over 150 hardy folks turned out for two 1st Day Hikes at Hamlin Beach State Park, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Environmental educator Lara Hargrave led both hikes. Friends of Hamlin Beach State Park (FOHBSP) volunteers provided coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Hamlin Lions Club donated coffee and granola bars for the event, and participated in discussions on future projects. The Hamlin Lions also donated $500 to FOHBSP in December to help them continue their mission to enhance and support Hamlin Beach State Park. For information on the Friends group or to get involved, email FOHBSP@gmail.com.

Photos from FOHBSP on Facebook