I like to camp and trap in remote areas of the Adirondack Park. I need permits for extended stays at a campsite, but I’m allowed only one permit during hunting season. Then I must remove my tent and gear. But trapping season extends for months past the end of hunting season. Then I’m allowed to stay in a campsite for only three days before removing all my gear. This makes it impossible to camp in remote areas.
I’m only doing what my ancestors did for one hundred years. Trappers don’t harm the environment in any way with their tents. The state should issue more permits for extended camping. The Department of Environmental Conservation and the Adirondack Park Agency are promoting new trails and better access to wilderness with more tourists and snowmobiles. It makes no sense to treat people like criminals for camping for extended periods in the backcountry.
In the service they taught me: first shelter, fire, and food. I need these to camp in remote areas. I feel trappers care the most for the Park and animals, yet we are most restricted. I would welcome rangers to check my campsite any time.
Lewis N. Page Sr., Speculator
Leave a Reply