Picnic shelter reservations at Finger Lakes State Parks can now be made 11 months in advance of the use date, according to Regional Director Jack Clancy. For example, reservations for next July may be made now. August 2002 reservations will be accepted beginning in September.

In the past, reservation applications were subject to selection by lottery and were taken beginning January 1 of each year. "The new system is designed to mirror the successful camping reservation program which has been in effect for the past several years," Clancy said.

Reservations will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications can be obtained from any Finger Lakes State Park Office or from Regional Headquarters, 2221 Taughannock Park Road, P.O. Box 1055, Trumansburg, NY 14886, phone 607-387-7041. Rates range from $20 to $150, depending on the size and condition of the shelter. During the summer months, there are separate weekday and weekend/holiday rental rates.

Picnic shelters are available for rentals in the following parks: Buttermilk Falls, Cayuga Lake, Fair Haven Beach, Fillmore Glen, Keuka Lake, Pinnacle, Robert H. Treman, Sampson, Seneca Lake, Stony Brook, Taughannock Falls and Watkins Glen.

The region's newest picnic shelter is located at Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca. Some rental dates are still available this season, according to Park Manager Bill Brown. The $175,000 shelter is the anchor building for the new day use/picnic area just inside the main park entrance off Route 13 just south of Ithaca.

The pavilion's size, some 3,150 square feet, makes it ideal for weddings, parties, corporate picnics and other special events. The shelter is designed for groups of up to 200 people, but with outdoor availability for tents, larger groups can be accommodated. The enclosed building features laminated wood arches, a cathedral ceiling and skylights, running water, counter space with electric outlets and electric outlets on the outside of the building. The shelter rents for $150.

For reservations, contact the Robert H. Treman park office or phone 607-273-3440. Payment may be made by cash, check or credit card.