Rensselaer Land Trust May Outings

The public is invited to attend.
On Saturday, May 5, at 10 am volunteers are needed for the third annual tree planting gathering at the public boat launch at the Rensselaer Land Trust’s Hoosic River property in Eagle Bridge. NYS DEC is providing seedlings for landscaping and erosion control. Bring gloves, a shovel, a bucket, a snack and a drink. We will work regardless of weather. The boat launch is about one mile west of Eagle Bridge on the north side of Route 67 at the DEC sign. Register with Paul Schroeder, Volunteer Coordinator, at 518- 674-2480 or pschroeder1@nycap.rr.com.
On Sunday, May 6, at 12:30 pm, RLT and the AMC Mohawk Hudson Chapter are sponsoring a hike in the Tibbitts State Forest. This hike will follow five miles of old roads. Early spring flowers may be seen. Most of the hike will be flat, but there will be some steep portions. After the hike, you can join the leader at the Man of Kent Pub. Meet at the Forest parking lot on NY Route 7 just west of the intersection of Routes 7 and 22 in Hoosick. Register in advance with Sharon Bonk at 518-674-0042 or sboqc@mindspring.com.
On Saturday, May 12, from 1 to 4 pm, bring the family to Papscanee Island Nature Preserve to experience the thrill of catching fish with a seine, or dragnet, and discover what lives under the surface of the Hudson River. Participants will assist in netting fish to examine and identify them and then release them unharmed. Learn about fish that live in the river year-round and those that migrate and return during spawning season. Hear the latest advice from the Department of Health on eating fish from the Hudson River and its tributaries. Chest waders are available for loan on a first-come, first-serve basis, or bring your own. Dress accordingly for a hands-on, wet-feet experience. For directions and to register, contact Fran Egbert at 518-674-3214 or francillee@juno.com.
On Saturday, May 19, at 9 am, join botanist Tom Phillips for a wildflower identification walk at Hidley Farm in North Greenbush. We will walk two to three miles; some areas may be a little wet or muddy. From the intersection of U.S. Route 4 and Williams Road (NYS Route 136) just south of HVCC, go east on Williams Road 1.9 miles, and turn right on Hidley Road. Go 1.4 miles to a dirt road on the left leading to parking.