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Through its news reporting and analysis, the nonprofit Adirondack Explorer furthers the wise stewardship, public enjoyment for all, community vitality, and lasting protection of the Adirondack park.

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Help us defend your voice for the Adirondacks!

The Explorer has published a series of reports about the legally questionable practice by some private landowners of blocking access to navigable streams that run through their property. (See links to stories below).

This coverage has had an important result, including a finding by the Department of Environmental Conservation that one such waterway, Shingle Shanty Brook and its tributary Mud Pond Outlet, are legally open for public use. This waterway connects key portions of the William C. Whitney Wilderness Area.

The state asked the landowners to remove cables that block access. They have not done so but instead sued our editor, Phil Brown, for trespass in the course of his reporting.

We hope this lawsuit will clarify the right of public navigation. Check back here for updates on this important case.

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Related Articles:

Paddling case begins anew  July/August 2016

Court hears paddling case  May/June 2016

Joining the Fight  Jan/Feb 2016

Canoe case in top court  May/June 2015

Court Rules for Paddlers  Mar/Apr 2015

Paddling case re-argued  Nov/Dec 2014

Paddling case advances  July/Aug 2014

Brandreths appeal ruling  July/Aug 2013

A victory for paddlers Mar/Apr 2013

DEC sides with paddlers Mar/Apr 2013

AG backs paddlers’ rights Mar/Apr 2011

‘Explorer’ denies trespass  Mar/Apr 2011

Landowners sue Editor Jan/Feb 2011

Paddlers’ rights in dispute Nov/Dec 2009

Testing the Legal Waters July/Aug 2009

Through its news reporting and analysis, the nonprofit Adirondack Explorer furthers the wise stewardship, public enjoyment for all, community vitality, and lasting protection of the Adirondack Park.

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