Everyone is looking forward to the nice weather this year. The fishermen among us are especially eager since the season starts in 2 days. Below is a recent press release from the DEC discussing different fishing related news. Among the topics covered are the conditions anglers are likely to experience as well as the new study being done in regard to the DEC trout stocking program (the Esopus Creek waters will be part of that study). Happy fishing to all of you!!
ALBANY, NY (03/21/2011) -- Unlike last year when opening day trout anglers were greeted with relatively tranquil conditions, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) informs us this winter's heavy snows and resultant high, cold stream conditions will not be friendly to early season trout anglers.
"After a long, cold and snowy winter, we know that anglers are anxious to hit the water," said DEC Commissioner Joe Martens. "Unfortunately, a good portion of the state remains covered with snow, which may restrict access to streams and cause very high stream flows making early season angling difficult."
Trout, lake trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon seasons all begin on April 1. Best fishing on opening day can be found on Long Island and the lower Hudson Valley where even in the toughest of springs, fishable water can be found.
DEC plans to stock over 2.3 million catchable-size brook, brown and rainbow trout in more than 300 lakes and ponds and roughly 3,000 miles of streams across the state. Spring stockings include 1.77 million brown trout, 390,000 rainbow trout and 147,000 brook trout. Approximately 97,000 two-year-old brown trout 12-13 inches in length will also be stocked across into lakes and streams across the state. Stocking of catchable-size trout generally commences in late March and early April in the lower Hudson Valley, Long Island, and western New York and then proceeds to the Catskills and Adirondacks as stream conditions permit.
More than 2.25 million yearling lake trout, steelhead, landlocked salmon, splake and coho salmon will be also be stocked by DEC this spring to provide exciting angling opportunities over the next several years. For those who prefer a quieter, more remote setting, 350,000 brook trout fingerlings will be stocked in 342 lakes and ponds this spring and fall, providing unique angling opportunities for future years. For a complete list of waters planned to be stocked with trout this spring, go to www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/30465.html.
Early season trout fishing recommendations by DEC staff in each region, including suggestions on where to find good opportunities to fish for wild trout can be found in the 2011 Coldwater Fishing Forecast at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7749.html. Anglers searching for publicly accessible streams can find maps of DEC public fishing rights holdings on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9924.html. The Bureau of Fisheries web pages are some of the most popular on the DEC website and contain a wealth of information that anglers will find helpful. Anglers are also encouraged to contact the DEC Regional Office in the region they plan on fishing for additional information.
In an effort to further refine its stream trout management program, the 2011 angling season will kick off a new study being conducted jointly by DEC and Cornell University to examine the fate of trout stocked in our waters. Creel surveys and trout population assessments are planned for seven stocked trout streams across the state as part of a three-year research project to check the performance of the Catch Rate Oriented Trout Stocking (CROTS) model used by the DEC to set stocking rates. Waters included in the study are the Carmans River, Esopus Creek, West Branch Delaware River, Oriskany Creek, Otselic Creek, Meads Creek, and East Koy Creek. Anglers fishing these waters can help by answering a few questions on their fishing trip if approached by a DEC creel clerk and by allowing the clerk to examine and measure any harvested fish.
Anglers 16 years of age and older must have a New York State fishing license available on line at www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6101.html or by calling 1-86-NY-DECALS. Fishing licenses can also be purchased from the 1,500 license issuing agents located throughout the state (town and county clerks, some major discount stores and many tackle and sporting goods stores). An interactive map providing the locations of these agents is now available on line. By law, every dollar spent on a fishing license helps fund the DEC fish stocking program and other programs conducted by the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. Please be sure to also purchase a Habitat/Access Stamp to help fund important access and habitat projects. For more information on the Habitat/Access Stamp Program, go to http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/329.html.
Anglers are reminded to be sure to disinfect their fishing equipment, including waders and boots before entering a new body of water. Since 2007, Didymo, an invasive algae species, has been discovered in the Battenkill and Kayderosseras Creek in DEC Region 5, Esopus Creek and Rondout Creek in Region 3 and the Little Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and East Branch Delaware River in Region 4. Didymo can attach to waders, particularly felt soles, and this is believed to be the primary mechanism for its spread from its initial discovery location. Wading anglers are encouraged to use readily available alternatives to felt-soled waders and wading boots. All gear should be dried and/or disinfected before it is used in a new body of water. Methods to clean and disinfect fishing gear can be found on DEC's website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50121.html.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Update On The Phoenicia Library
I was asked to pass on this message from the Phoenicia Library staff.
The Phoenicia Library's temporary location opened yesterday at 9 Ave Maria Drive, across from The Phoenicia Post Office (in the former Maverick West Clinic). They will be open:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 1-6pm
Tuesday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am - 3pm, and Closed on Sunday
They have opened with a small lending library. Interlibrary loans can still be done with the Mid-Hudson system - and those can be picked up and returned to this temporary location. There is no drop-box as of yet.
I'd like to again compliment the library staff and board on all the hard work to make this temporary headquarters a reality - again, in the face of a challenging week emotionally. And, to the community, your astounding support has been greatly appreciated by the library.
Book/DVD donations - 3 days this week at the Parish Hall, Phoenicia
Please drop any good condition books/dvds on the following 3 days/hours this week:
Monday, March 28, Wednesday, March 30 and Friday, April 1st between 1pm-6pm at Parish Hall
"We welcome donations of books in good condition and DVDs to help rebuild our collection or to be sold to benefit the library. We would prefer not to receive any bootlegged videotapes, textbooks, encyclopedias, Readers' Digest condensed books, or magazines."
Other donations (furniture/computers etc.)
Please pre-arrange these drop-offs to confirm the library's need. Call 688-7811 or email: phoeniciadirector@gmail.com
Monetary Donations
These are welcome either at the library, or by mailing a check to: Phoenicia Library, PO Box 555, Phoenicia, NY 12464, or by Paypal "Donate" button on the library website. http://phoenicia.lib.ny.us/
The Phoenicia Library's temporary location opened yesterday at 9 Ave Maria Drive, across from The Phoenicia Post Office (in the former Maverick West Clinic). They will be open:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 1-6pm
Tuesday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am - 3pm, and Closed on Sunday
They have opened with a small lending library. Interlibrary loans can still be done with the Mid-Hudson system - and those can be picked up and returned to this temporary location. There is no drop-box as of yet.
I'd like to again compliment the library staff and board on all the hard work to make this temporary headquarters a reality - again, in the face of a challenging week emotionally. And, to the community, your astounding support has been greatly appreciated by the library.
Book/DVD donations - 3 days this week at the Parish Hall, Phoenicia
Please drop any good condition books/dvds on the following 3 days/hours this week:
Monday, March 28, Wednesday, March 30 and Friday, April 1st between 1pm-6pm at Parish Hall
"We welcome donations of books in good condition and DVDs to help rebuild our collection or to be sold to benefit the library. We would prefer not to receive any bootlegged videotapes, textbooks, encyclopedias, Readers' Digest condensed books, or magazines."
Other donations (furniture/computers etc.)
Please pre-arrange these drop-offs to confirm the library's need. Call 688-7811 or email: phoeniciadirector@gmail.com
Monetary Donations
These are welcome either at the library, or by mailing a check to: Phoenicia Library, PO Box 555, Phoenicia, NY 12464, or by Paypal "Donate" button on the library website. http://phoenicia.lib.ny.us/
Sammy Cat Passes
Recently Linda McDonald wrote to me of the passing of her beloved outside cat. Here is what she had to say.
"Our beloved "Sammy Cat", had to be put down today. He had Feline Aids, from one too many fights, protecting his yard from marauders. He was bitten in the head in the early summer of 2010, by an unknown traveler and had to be treated for an abscess. Five weeks ago, he was bitten again and the ensuing abscess took all his strength. He was tested for aids today and it was determined positive and some what advanced, so it must have started after the summer bite. He had become weak and had chest congestion. Our young Siamese cat "OB" will miss him greatly, they had become good friends over the winter. OB enjoyed having Sam come in twice a day to eat inside with him, as we were trying to keep outside food to a minimum, for Sam's protection. Sammy was 13 years old this month." Linda & Bob
RIP Sammy
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Much Less Than Expected
Well, the storm has finally passed and the sun is beginning to peek through the clouds. In the end, despite predictions at one point of 6 - 12, we only got about 3 inches of new snow in the last few days. A lot of the precipitation fell in the form of rain or melted quickly on the ground. But what really saved us is that the bulk of the storm slipped around us. The first part of it went to the north and the second to the south. We just sort of slid through the middle which was an excellent break for us.
The road seems well sanded and salted at this point. There were no power or phone outages to report.
Right now the temperatures are in the low 30s and climbing so I expect a lot of the snow will melt today. That is the upside to a spring storm, it doesn't stick around for long. So despite the white blanket over everything, as is well in the valley.
The road seems well sanded and salted at this point. There were no power or phone outages to report.
Right now the temperatures are in the low 30s and climbing so I expect a lot of the snow will melt today. That is the upside to a spring storm, it doesn't stick around for long. So despite the white blanket over everything, as is well in the valley.
Temporary Space For The Library
I have been asked to pass along this message from the Phoenicia Library to all of you. So here goes.....
The Phoenicia Library will be opening at a temporary space THIS SATURDAY, March 26th, in the former Maverick West Building, across from the post office at 9 Ave Maria St. We will have our usual Saturday hours, 10 - 3, and Letter Friends will be held at its regular 11 a.m. time.
It will be a simple operation to start, but we hope to restore as many services as we can as soon as possible. If you have library books to return, you may do so that day. A small lending library and computers available for public use will be available shortly.
The library board and staff wish to express their gratitude to the Town Board and Supervisor for making this space available to us so quickly and enabling us to re-open in just one week, and to the entire community for all of the wonderful offers of help. We ask for your continued patience as we settle in and regroup. Due to temporary storage issues, we ask that you hold onto book donations for now, and we will provide more information soon on when and where to drop them off.
If you're on Facebook, you can follow our progress on the Phoenicia Librarians page. See you Saturday!
The Phoenicia Library will be opening at a temporary space THIS SATURDAY, March 26th, in the former Maverick West Building, across from the post office at 9 Ave Maria St. We will have our usual Saturday hours, 10 - 3, and Letter Friends will be held at its regular 11 a.m. time.
It will be a simple operation to start, but we hope to restore as many services as we can as soon as possible. If you have library books to return, you may do so that day. A small lending library and computers available for public use will be available shortly.
The library board and staff wish to express their gratitude to the Town Board and Supervisor for making this space available to us so quickly and enabling us to re-open in just one week, and to the entire community for all of the wonderful offers of help. We ask for your continued patience as we settle in and regroup. Due to temporary storage issues, we ask that you hold onto book donations for now, and we will provide more information soon on when and where to drop them off.
If you're on Facebook, you can follow our progress on the Phoenicia Librarians page. See you Saturday!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Interim Snow Report
The snow has been falling here all day but so far hasn't amounted to much. It was melting quickly for most of the day. I would say that we have gotten about 3 inches at this point. But the forecast is for snow through the night into tomorrow morning so we will see.
The roads however, have been slippery. Tonight as I came up WV Road a woman flagged me down. She had hit some ice under the snow and gone off the road and down into a ditch. It didn't seem like she was hurt but the car was going to need to be towed back up. I took her back to the house that she had just left so she could call her family for help. I haven't been out since so I don't know what happened to her but hopefully she is fine and got everything straightened out. Anyway, my main point in telling you that story is to remind you all to be careful if you have to drive tonight!!
The roads however, have been slippery. Tonight as I came up WV Road a woman flagged me down. She had hit some ice under the snow and gone off the road and down into a ditch. It didn't seem like she was hurt but the car was going to need to be towed back up. I took her back to the house that she had just left so she could call her family for help. I haven't been out since so I don't know what happened to her but hopefully she is fine and got everything straightened out. Anyway, my main point in telling you that story is to remind you all to be careful if you have to drive tonight!!
Rick Altman Trio At The Harmony Club
The Rick Altman Trio will be performing again this weekend at the Harmony Cafe. Here is the email that was sent to me by Rick's publicist and wife, Lauren Silver Altman.
"Come enjoy jazz in Woodstock. The Rick Altman Trio is back at the Harmony Cafe in Woodstock, Sunday March 27th from 8-11 pm. Check for info on upcoming shows at www.rickaltman.com. Hope to see you there!"
"Come enjoy jazz in Woodstock. The Rick Altman Trio is back at the Harmony Cafe in Woodstock, Sunday March 27th from 8-11 pm. Check for info on upcoming shows at www.rickaltman.com. Hope to see you there!"
Monday, March 21, 2011
Fire Chief Rules On Phoenicia Library
Yesterday, Phoenicia Fire Chief Gary Carr Jr. said that the Phoenicia Library building was badly damaged but still salvageable. He also said that the cause of the fire has been ruled accidental and probably electrical. I am linking to an article from today's Kingston Daily Freeman so you can read more about the chief's findings. Phoenicia Fire - Daily Freeman
March Is Such A Cruel Month
After the gorgeous days we had last Thursday and Friday I let myself believe that the warm weather was on it's way. Unfortunately, Spring is a heartbreaking season. This morning I woke up to find that it was snowing.....again. We got about 2-3 inches before it changed over to rain around mid-day. But in spite of the rain, there is yet another chilly, white blanket over everything. My optimistic little daffodils are once again being oppressed by the cruelties of a long cold winter. But despite these setbacks I am going to choose to believe that spring will arrive......it's just a question of when.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Message From The Library Folks
I received this message earlier and was asked to post it. Please pass it on to anyone who you think might be interested.
"The library is very grateful for the huge outpouring of support it has received. It plans to open in a temporary location in downtown Phoenicia sometime later this week. We hope to announce the location in just a couple days. We will need work crews probably later this week, so those wanting to volunteer their efforts should get in touch with Tracy Priest, the library director, at phoeniciadirector@gmail.com. Although we have insurance, our building was old and couldn't be insured for much, and we have to replace all our computers and most of our books, so if you'd like to send money, please mail it to the library at PO Box 555, Phoenicia, NY, or money can be dropped off in person, once we have a temporary home. We'll be so happy to see you all!"
And, I'd like to add, the Library is off-site today at the Phoenicia Rod and Gun Club on Rte. 28, between The Emerson and The Phoenicia Diner. I'm sure they'd love to see you - and I'm sure you could give checks to them there also. Thanks!
"The library is very grateful for the huge outpouring of support it has received. It plans to open in a temporary location in downtown Phoenicia sometime later this week. We hope to announce the location in just a couple days. We will need work crews probably later this week, so those wanting to volunteer their efforts should get in touch with Tracy Priest, the library director, at phoeniciadirector@gmail.com. Although we have insurance, our building was old and couldn't be insured for much, and we have to replace all our computers and most of our books, so if you'd like to send money, please mail it to the library at PO Box 555, Phoenicia, NY, or money can be dropped off in person, once we have a temporary home. We'll be so happy to see you all!"
And, I'd like to add, the Library is off-site today at the Phoenicia Rod and Gun Club on Rte. 28, between The Emerson and The Phoenicia Diner. I'm sure they'd love to see you - and I'm sure you could give checks to them there also. Thanks!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Fire At The Phoenicia Library
At about 3:00am this morning a major fire broke out in the Phoenicia Library. The building is heavily damaged. The interior is essentially gutted but the exterior is still standing. The back side of the building seems to be in worse shape than the front. The cause of the fire is unclear at this point but fire officials suspect that it was electrical. The good news is that no one was hurt and the blaze did not spread to Morne Imports or the Deli.
The library book sale is proceeding as planned. It is being held this weekend at the Rod & Gun Club on Rt 28. I personally thought the sound of ammo being fired during the sale added an interesting ambiance to the event. My suggestion to the group was that if someone came and didn't spend enough on books they should be made to exit the building across the firing range. Alas, my idea was rejected.
All kidding aside, the library is a very, very important part of our community. So go and show your support by buying some books!! Below is a letter from a Quinn giving more info about the fire and asking you to support the library by attending the sale. I will keep you all up to date on any future fund raising events.
Carol
PS - A short video that was shot this morning is available on the web. The photos are similar to those that I shot and posted below but those of you who would like to see it can click the link provided here: Phoenicia Library After the Fire
Here is Quinn's letter:
Dear Friends,
Last night, there was a fire in the Phoenicia library. No one was hurt and the building still stands, for which we as a community must count our blessings. However, the damage to the interior was extensive, and while I personally don't know the details, it would seem as though much of the collection is not salvageable.
You all know what a vitally important part of this community the library has been and will continue to be, regardless of location and circumstances. Needless to say, it is a loss that we will all mourn--for the objects inside (some irreplaceable), for the memories made there and for the place itself.
But. It was the library building that burned. Not the library. You all are the library. The community is the library.
Today, Judith Singer (Library Board President) has put together a sale at the Phoenicia Fish and Game Club on Rte. 28. There will be over 6000 books there, all the proceeds will benefit the Library. If you are able, please come and show your support. If you know anyone else who I have not included in my list of contacts who might be able to come out, please forward this to them as well. Today is the first day of rebuilding for the library. We all will be very grateful for anything that can be done.
Yours,
Quinn
The library book sale is proceeding as planned. It is being held this weekend at the Rod & Gun Club on Rt 28. I personally thought the sound of ammo being fired during the sale added an interesting ambiance to the event. My suggestion to the group was that if someone came and didn't spend enough on books they should be made to exit the building across the firing range. Alas, my idea was rejected.
All kidding aside, the library is a very, very important part of our community. So go and show your support by buying some books!! Below is a letter from a Quinn giving more info about the fire and asking you to support the library by attending the sale. I will keep you all up to date on any future fund raising events.
Carol
PS - A short video that was shot this morning is available on the web. The photos are similar to those that I shot and posted below but those of you who would like to see it can click the link provided here: Phoenicia Library After the Fire
Here is Quinn's letter:
Dear Friends,
Last night, there was a fire in the Phoenicia library. No one was hurt and the building still stands, for which we as a community must count our blessings. However, the damage to the interior was extensive, and while I personally don't know the details, it would seem as though much of the collection is not salvageable.
You all know what a vitally important part of this community the library has been and will continue to be, regardless of location and circumstances. Needless to say, it is a loss that we will all mourn--for the objects inside (some irreplaceable), for the memories made there and for the place itself.
But. It was the library building that burned. Not the library. You all are the library. The community is the library.
Today, Judith Singer (Library Board President) has put together a sale at the Phoenicia Fish and Game Club on Rte. 28. There will be over 6000 books there, all the proceeds will benefit the Library. If you are able, please come and show your support. If you know anyone else who I have not included in my list of contacts who might be able to come out, please forward this to them as well. Today is the first day of rebuilding for the library. We all will be very grateful for anything that can be done.
Yours,
Quinn
Friday, March 18, 2011
Phoenicia Library Book Sale
Phoenicia Library Book Sale March 18-20
Over 6,000 books, most priced 25 cents-$1
Better books (antiques, signed, rare) individually priced
Discounts for large purchases
Regularly priced books half off on Sunday 2 – 4
Regularly priced books discounted with receipt for $10+ from any store in Shandaken dated 3/18-3/20
Sale will be held at the Phoenicia Fish & Game Association, 5419 State Route 28
Friday evening preview (admission $5): 7 pm to 10 pm
Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm
Over 6,000 books, most priced 25 cents-$1
Better books (antiques, signed, rare) individually priced
Discounts for large purchases
Regularly priced books half off on Sunday 2 – 4
Regularly priced books discounted with receipt for $10+ from any store in Shandaken dated 3/18-3/20
Sale will be held at the Phoenicia Fish & Game Association, 5419 State Route 28
Friday evening preview (admission $5): 7 pm to 10 pm
Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm
More info on the Parks and Rec Board
Yesterday I posted a notice regarding the town's search for members of the newly formed Parks and Recreation Board. If anyone is interested and wants more information they can go to the Town of Shandaken website (you have to scroll down on the page a bit). There are more details on how the board will be structured as well as a copy of the local law that was passed to form this board. This is another great opportunity to participate in your town so check it out!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Town Parks and Recreation Board
The Shandaken Town Board has recently established a Parks and Recreation Board with the responsibility of managing the Town's parks and related activities. The Town Board is now accepting applications for members of this board, which will be comprised of a Chairperson, Vice Chair, Secretary, and managers for each of the town's parks: Parish Field in Phoenicia, Glenbrook Park in Shandaken, Big Indian Park, and Smith Park in Pine Hill. Ideally, the Park Managers will reside in the community of the park.
If you would like to be considered for one of these positions, please submit your name, contact information, and a brief statement describing your qualifications and interests in serving on this board. Applications should be submitted to the Town Clerk's office by Monday, March 28th, 3PM. Applications may be dropped off at the Town Clerk's office, or mailed or e-mailed as follows:
Shandaken Town Board
PO Box 67
Allaben, NY 12480
e-mail: townclerk@shandaken.us
Office Hours: 9:00 – 3:30 Monday – Friday
Phone: (845) 688-5004
Volunteers for the Parks and Recreation Board will have the gratification of playing a role in serving their communities and our Township. Please give this opportunity your consideration.
If you would like to be considered for one of these positions, please submit your name, contact information, and a brief statement describing your qualifications and interests in serving on this board. Applications should be submitted to the Town Clerk's office by Monday, March 28th, 3PM. Applications may be dropped off at the Town Clerk's office, or mailed or e-mailed as follows:
Shandaken Town Board
PO Box 67
Allaben, NY 12480
e-mail: townclerk@shandaken.us
Office Hours: 9:00 – 3:30 Monday – Friday
Phone: (845) 688-5004
Volunteers for the Parks and Recreation Board will have the gratification of playing a role in serving their communities and our Township. Please give this opportunity your consideration.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Sweet Sue's Closed
This morning I was made aware of the fact that Sweet Sue's in Phoenicia has been closed due to septic problems.
Some time on Friday afternoon officials of the Ulster County Health department visited the restaurant and ordered it closed immediately. It seems that Sweet Sue's septic system had failed in latest high water event. It is unclear how long the restaurant is going to remain closed.
The Watershed Post has a more in-depth article about the problem. Those of you who would like to know more can follow this link:
The Watershed Post - Sweet Sue's Closed.
Sweet Sue's is an important part of the community and I hope that the problem gets resolved quickly and she will re-open soon.
Some time on Friday afternoon officials of the Ulster County Health department visited the restaurant and ordered it closed immediately. It seems that Sweet Sue's septic system had failed in latest high water event. It is unclear how long the restaurant is going to remain closed.
The Watershed Post has a more in-depth article about the problem. Those of you who would like to know more can follow this link:
The Watershed Post - Sweet Sue's Closed.
Sweet Sue's is an important part of the community and I hope that the problem gets resolved quickly and she will re-open soon.
Monday, March 14, 2011
High Water Email Alert System
WCA member Rich Muellerleile sent me some great information this morning on an automatic email alert system for flood stages measured by the USGS gauges. Read on:
"I happened upon a cool (& free) feature of the USGS site which automatically sends text or e-mail messages to any individual desiring real-time advisement of water levels of the Woodland Valley creek or any other stream in the US that has a USGS serviced water level gauge. The program is called Wateralert and has user definable thresholds that send messages only when stream flow exceeds user outlined limits. I use this as an indicator for when my basement floods (and when the fly fishing is particularly good) and it works immaculately. Instructions are self explanatory and for those that want a Woodland Valley specific link can use this link - Woodland Valley Creek Email Alert Subscription Form. Otherwise the website is http://water.usgs.gov/wateralert . Updates above flood stage are usually sent hourly. This could be a great tool for those in the association that have flooding issues, particularly those whom are second homeowners that want someone to check on their basements, etc. in high water scenarios. Feel free to post the links on the website as I feel that it would help many determine when it is time to check up on things."
Richard W. Muellerleile
Thanks for passing this important information on to the community Rich!!!
"I happened upon a cool (& free) feature of the USGS site which automatically sends text or e-mail messages to any individual desiring real-time advisement of water levels of the Woodland Valley creek or any other stream in the US that has a USGS serviced water level gauge. The program is called Wateralert and has user definable thresholds that send messages only when stream flow exceeds user outlined limits. I use this as an indicator for when my basement floods (and when the fly fishing is particularly good) and it works immaculately. Instructions are self explanatory and for those that want a Woodland Valley specific link can use this link - Woodland Valley Creek Email Alert Subscription Form. Otherwise the website is http://water.usgs.gov/wateralert . Updates above flood stage are usually sent hourly. This could be a great tool for those in the association that have flooding issues, particularly those whom are second homeowners that want someone to check on their basements, etc. in high water scenarios. Feel free to post the links on the website as I feel that it would help many determine when it is time to check up on things."
Richard W. Muellerleile
Thanks for passing this important information on to the community Rich!!!
Friday, March 11, 2011
High Water But Minimal Flooding
The photos below are of the Woodland Creek first thing this morning. The top one is of the creek down by the campground. The middle one is from the bridge right before Muddy Brook Road and the last one is of the creek just below the Fawn Hill Bridge (you can see the bridge in the background).
The creek crested at about 8 feet on the gauge. The water was high but I didn't see any major damage along WV road. The asphalt is cracked in a lot of places and there are several new slumps in the road but that had all happened before this last high water event.
Phoenicia itself was pretty quite. The Stony Clove stayed within it's banks this time so the water did not go down Main St. I saw some minor flooding around the edges of town and people seemed to be pumping water from their basements but otherwise all was well.
There were no power or phone outages in the valley as far as I know. The water has receded since this morning and everything seems to have gotten back to normal. So I guess that is all for now.
The creek crested at about 8 feet on the gauge. The water was high but I didn't see any major damage along WV road. The asphalt is cracked in a lot of places and there are several new slumps in the road but that had all happened before this last high water event.
Phoenicia itself was pretty quite. The Stony Clove stayed within it's banks this time so the water did not go down Main St. I saw some minor flooding around the edges of town and people seemed to be pumping water from their basements but otherwise all was well.
There were no power or phone outages in the valley as far as I know. The water has receded since this morning and everything seems to have gotten back to normal. So I guess that is all for now.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Waiting and Watching
We got a snow, sleet, ice, rain conglomeration (otherwise called a wintery mix, but I am tired of saying that phrase) this afternoon. In the later afternoon it changed to all rain. The rain melted a lot of the mix, so the roadways are clear but most driveways are full of that initial slushy muck. It is pouring out right now.
With additional heavy rains predicted overnight everyone is once again watching the local creek and stream gauges. Besides my unscientific personal observations regarding the rising of the creek in past posts, I have been told that the National Weather Service has a good site for watching the flood waters. Here is the link: The National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service. It shows the predicted height and crest of the flood waters. It makes it easier for the layperson to interpret the gauge readings.
Right now there is a flood warning for Ulster County. So I am keeping an eye on the Esopus Creek, and the Woodland Valley and Stony Clove streams. The Stony Clove is important because it was the overflow from that which caused the two floods in Phoneicia last fall.
So far all is well in the valley though. It is raining like crazy but Woodland Valley Road was clear when I came home just now. The power and phone have been working fine all day. I will keep you posted.
With additional heavy rains predicted overnight everyone is once again watching the local creek and stream gauges. Besides my unscientific personal observations regarding the rising of the creek in past posts, I have been told that the National Weather Service has a good site for watching the flood waters. Here is the link: The National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service. It shows the predicted height and crest of the flood waters. It makes it easier for the layperson to interpret the gauge readings.
Right now there is a flood warning for Ulster County. So I am keeping an eye on the Esopus Creek, and the Woodland Valley and Stony Clove streams. The Stony Clove is important because it was the overflow from that which caused the two floods in Phoneicia last fall.
So far all is well in the valley though. It is raining like crazy but Woodland Valley Road was clear when I came home just now. The power and phone have been working fine all day. I will keep you posted.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Funds for the 2011 Woodland Trout Fund
Here is a letter from Troutmeister and WCA member Mike O'Neil regarding this year's fund. Read on:
WOODLAND TROUT 2011
A welcome voice from the past
Once again I take the figurative O’Neil pen in hand and write in hopes of getting a few dollars (or more if you like), to help us stock trout in the Fly Fishing section of Woodland Brook this spring and summer. My father did the selfsame thing for many years, and I felt it would be entertaining to share the letter that he penned to the faithful 24 years ago, begging alms. You will note that the theme is a familiar one. To wit:
LET US BEGIN by agreeing that Woodland Brook will never inspire lines like:
“To the West! To the West!
To the land of the free!
Where the mighty Missouri
Rolls down to the sea.”
It would be ridiculous in fact—not unlike comparing a leaky faucet to the falls of Niagara—to equate our piddling little trickle with dozens of such watercourses: with the Congo as well as the Missouri; with the Amazon, the Nile, the Yukon or even (author blushes) the Gowanus Canal. Few of which lack their own sort of piscine life.
Catfish are present along a thousand miles of the Big Muddy. Tench up to eight pounds are available in the upper Thames. Big tarpon await the angler in Florida and huge pirarucu abound in the Madiera, the Xingue and the Tapajos as well as the Amazon. Still, bigger may not necessarily be better—at least to a fly fisherman.
The channel cat is not a particularly enticing object. The tench is mostly notable for its ability to go on flopping after its head has been bashed by a tire iron, and tarpon waters many contain alligators. These big reptiles seldom attack humans, it is true, and then only in rather clumsy fashion; they clamp their jaws on a leg and roll until the limb is twisted off. Crocodiles are a different matter, however—the stomach of one opened in 1926 contained fourteen arm and leg bones and three human spinal columns. Not that the pirarucu fisherman is in much danger of being eaten of a croc. Piranhas—which swim in schools of hundreds and can dismantle a cow in ten minutes—would almost certainly reach him first.
Are these analogies too outlandish? Let us then consider the dozens of big clear streams which tumble into the Pacific from the western American coastal range. They are without soluble minerals and, thus, virtually without aquatic insect life. Their sea run fish do not rise. One can only hook their steelhead by “mining” the bottom with flies made of fluorescent yarn or devices called cherry bobbers. One can find both big trout and big hatches in Dollar Watch Creek to the east of the Washington mountains. The fisherman is advised, however, to encase his legs in three foot sections of stovepipe to ward off rattlesnakes. No such peril attends visitors to England’s chalk streams. But these waters are so placid and streamside cover is so sparse, that the angler in instructed to approach a rising trout as he would his God—on his knees. And one who wades the Esopus must deal, as we all know, with flotillas of louts on inner tubes.
Makes our own darlin’ little brook seem pretty attractive…hmmmmm? Attractiveness, of course, is a relative term. Don’t we all agree that its charm can be enhanced by buckets full of the Beaverkill Hatchery’s splendid brown trout? I sincerely hope so since all this colorful prose has been composed to extract payment for same.
Paul O’Neil-1987
A check, made out to THE WOODLAND TROUT FUND, sent to Mike O’Neil, 101 Rambling Road, Vernon, CT 06066 would be very much appreciated. To borrow a piece of stage business from George M. Cohan—My father thanks you, my mother thanks you, my sister thanks you; and I thank you—
Mike O’Neil—Troutmeister
WOODLAND TROUT 2011
A welcome voice from the past
Once again I take the figurative O’Neil pen in hand and write in hopes of getting a few dollars (or more if you like), to help us stock trout in the Fly Fishing section of Woodland Brook this spring and summer. My father did the selfsame thing for many years, and I felt it would be entertaining to share the letter that he penned to the faithful 24 years ago, begging alms. You will note that the theme is a familiar one. To wit:
LET US BEGIN by agreeing that Woodland Brook will never inspire lines like:
“To the West! To the West!
To the land of the free!
Where the mighty Missouri
Rolls down to the sea.”
It would be ridiculous in fact—not unlike comparing a leaky faucet to the falls of Niagara—to equate our piddling little trickle with dozens of such watercourses: with the Congo as well as the Missouri; with the Amazon, the Nile, the Yukon or even (author blushes) the Gowanus Canal. Few of which lack their own sort of piscine life.
Catfish are present along a thousand miles of the Big Muddy. Tench up to eight pounds are available in the upper Thames. Big tarpon await the angler in Florida and huge pirarucu abound in the Madiera, the Xingue and the Tapajos as well as the Amazon. Still, bigger may not necessarily be better—at least to a fly fisherman.
The channel cat is not a particularly enticing object. The tench is mostly notable for its ability to go on flopping after its head has been bashed by a tire iron, and tarpon waters many contain alligators. These big reptiles seldom attack humans, it is true, and then only in rather clumsy fashion; they clamp their jaws on a leg and roll until the limb is twisted off. Crocodiles are a different matter, however—the stomach of one opened in 1926 contained fourteen arm and leg bones and three human spinal columns. Not that the pirarucu fisherman is in much danger of being eaten of a croc. Piranhas—which swim in schools of hundreds and can dismantle a cow in ten minutes—would almost certainly reach him first.
Are these analogies too outlandish? Let us then consider the dozens of big clear streams which tumble into the Pacific from the western American coastal range. They are without soluble minerals and, thus, virtually without aquatic insect life. Their sea run fish do not rise. One can only hook their steelhead by “mining” the bottom with flies made of fluorescent yarn or devices called cherry bobbers. One can find both big trout and big hatches in Dollar Watch Creek to the east of the Washington mountains. The fisherman is advised, however, to encase his legs in three foot sections of stovepipe to ward off rattlesnakes. No such peril attends visitors to England’s chalk streams. But these waters are so placid and streamside cover is so sparse, that the angler in instructed to approach a rising trout as he would his God—on his knees. And one who wades the Esopus must deal, as we all know, with flotillas of louts on inner tubes.
Makes our own darlin’ little brook seem pretty attractive…hmmmmm? Attractiveness, of course, is a relative term. Don’t we all agree that its charm can be enhanced by buckets full of the Beaverkill Hatchery’s splendid brown trout? I sincerely hope so since all this colorful prose has been composed to extract payment for same.
Paul O’Neil-1987
A check, made out to THE WOODLAND TROUT FUND, sent to Mike O’Neil, 101 Rambling Road, Vernon, CT 06066 would be very much appreciated. To borrow a piece of stage business from George M. Cohan—My father thanks you, my mother thanks you, my sister thanks you; and I thank you—
Mike O’Neil—Troutmeister
Monday, March 7, 2011
Public Input On Recreational Stream Access
I only received this email today from Cornell Cooperative so it is very short notice but if you are interested here are the details:
Cornell Cooperative Extension Seeks Public Input for Improved Recreational Stream Access in the Ashokan Watershed
The Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program is gathering the public’s input at three public sessions on where they would like to see improvements to recreational stream access in the Ashokan Watershed. Some ideas for improvement could be; improved parking areas, green infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff, benches along the stream, garbage cans or garbage pick-up, or wildlife habitat improvements. Or maybe you would just like to see more signs along the road indicating where there is public stream access! If you cannot make it make to any of the public outreach meetings or have a new idea, a map and survey that you can fill out and submit online can be found on our website ashokanstreams.org/streamaccess.html.
We are holding 3 public information gathering sessions in the towns of Shandaken, Woodstock, and Olive on the following dates, refreshments will be served.
Shandaken: March 8, 2011 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm
At the AWSMP Program office
6375 State Rt. 28, Phoenicia NY
Olive: March 10, 2011 from 4:30pm – 7:00pm
At the Olive Free Library, in the Community Room
4033 Route 28A, West Shokan NY
Woodstock: March 18, 2011 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm (Tentative)
At the Woodstock Community Center
56 Rock City Rd, Woodstock NY
Everyone is encouraged to attend! If you have any questions about these upcoming events, please call the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program office at 845-688-3047. To see the finalized dates please visit the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program’s website ashokanstreams.org/calendar.html.
For more information about Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County’s community programs and events call 845-340-3990 or visit online at www.cceulster.org follow us and Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program on www.facebook.com.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Seeks Public Input for Improved Recreational Stream Access in the Ashokan Watershed
The Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program is gathering the public’s input at three public sessions on where they would like to see improvements to recreational stream access in the Ashokan Watershed. Some ideas for improvement could be; improved parking areas, green infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff, benches along the stream, garbage cans or garbage pick-up, or wildlife habitat improvements. Or maybe you would just like to see more signs along the road indicating where there is public stream access! If you cannot make it make to any of the public outreach meetings or have a new idea, a map and survey that you can fill out and submit online can be found on our website ashokanstreams.org/streamaccess.html.
We are holding 3 public information gathering sessions in the towns of Shandaken, Woodstock, and Olive on the following dates, refreshments will be served.
Shandaken: March 8, 2011 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm
At the AWSMP Program office
6375 State Rt. 28, Phoenicia NY
Olive: March 10, 2011 from 4:30pm – 7:00pm
At the Olive Free Library, in the Community Room
4033 Route 28A, West Shokan NY
Woodstock: March 18, 2011 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm (Tentative)
At the Woodstock Community Center
56 Rock City Rd, Woodstock NY
Everyone is encouraged to attend! If you have any questions about these upcoming events, please call the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program office at 845-688-3047. To see the finalized dates please visit the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program’s website ashokanstreams.org/calendar.html.
For more information about Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County’s community programs and events call 845-340-3990 or visit online at www.cceulster.org follow us and Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program on www.facebook.com.
Ending As Snow
The storm that hit Woodland Valley in the last couple of days has finally ended. In the last few hours the rain changed to sleet and snow. This morning we had about an inch of accumulation on the ground.
The temperature has dropped into the 20s so that things are a bit frozen. When I went out to my car this morning all the doors were frozen shut and I had to really work to get them open.
The creek has receded from the high water of last night. WV road seems fine. I didn't see any flooding damage when I rode to town. The trucks were out plowing and putting down salt and sand bright and early this morning. There were no power or phone outages as far as I know.
The water in the Esopus crested just short of 13 feet. Phoenicia didn't get flooded like it had been in the fall and that is a very good thing.
So, the sun is beginning to come out and, as far as I know, all is well.
The temperature has dropped into the 20s so that things are a bit frozen. When I went out to my car this morning all the doors were frozen shut and I had to really work to get them open.
The creek has receded from the high water of last night. WV road seems fine. I didn't see any flooding damage when I rode to town. The trucks were out plowing and putting down salt and sand bright and early this morning. There were no power or phone outages as far as I know.
The water in the Esopus crested just short of 13 feet. Phoenicia didn't get flooded like it had been in the fall and that is a very good thing.
So, the sun is beginning to come out and, as far as I know, all is well.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
And Now The Rain
Since today has been rainy across the entire Northeast many of you are probably wondering what is happening in Woodland Valley. The rain started last night at about 8 or 9 o'clock. It is still raining hard at this point. Both the Esopus and the Woodland
Creek have risen significantly.
I have been checking the Esopus height on the USGS gage at Coldbrook every few hours. Those of you who would like to do the same can go to USGS 01362500 ESOPUS CREEK AT COLDBROOK NY.
I will give you a little insight on how to follow the status of the Esopus from that site. Go to the bottom of the page and look at the "Gage height, feet" graph. Normal river height is generally between 4 and 6 feet, 11 feet is flood stage. In practical terms, that means that the initial effects of flooding in low lying areas will start to occur.
Based on stream bank damage from prior floods, Phoenicia starts to see the initial effects from flooding at a gage height of somewhere between 14 and 16 feet. At approximately 19 feet the Esopus hits the lower girder on the Bridge Street bridge and at about 20 feet starts to wash over the deck.
The highest reading I have ever personally witnessed was in the April 2005 flood. The reading was 20.5 on the gage in that event. The water at that point was over the Woodland Valley bridge. Please don't get alarmed that I am telling you about the higher flood stages. I am just giving them to you as reference points for reading the gage. Right now the National Weather Service is predicting that the Esopus at Coldbrook will rise to the final height of 12.6 feet. I personally think it will go beyond that but since the precipitation is supposed to change to a wintery mix later on I am hoping it will slow down the rise of the creeks and rivers. I will let you know how it turns out.
PS - Special thanks to WCA member Harry Jameson who is my expert Esopus Creek advisor having operated the Town Tinker Tube Rental for the past 31 years. There is not many river conditions that he hasn't seen. And I appreciate him sharing his expertise with us.
Creek have risen significantly.
I have been checking the Esopus height on the USGS gage at Coldbrook every few hours. Those of you who would like to do the same can go to USGS 01362500 ESOPUS CREEK AT COLDBROOK NY.
I will give you a little insight on how to follow the status of the Esopus from that site. Go to the bottom of the page and look at the "Gage height, feet" graph. Normal river height is generally between 4 and 6 feet, 11 feet is flood stage. In practical terms, that means that the initial effects of flooding in low lying areas will start to occur.
Based on stream bank damage from prior floods, Phoenicia starts to see the initial effects from flooding at a gage height of somewhere between 14 and 16 feet. At approximately 19 feet the Esopus hits the lower girder on the Bridge Street bridge and at about 20 feet starts to wash over the deck.
The highest reading I have ever personally witnessed was in the April 2005 flood. The reading was 20.5 on the gage in that event. The water at that point was over the Woodland Valley bridge. Please don't get alarmed that I am telling you about the higher flood stages. I am just giving them to you as reference points for reading the gage. Right now the National Weather Service is predicting that the Esopus at Coldbrook will rise to the final height of 12.6 feet. I personally think it will go beyond that but since the precipitation is supposed to change to a wintery mix later on I am hoping it will slow down the rise of the creeks and rivers. I will let you know how it turns out.
PS - Special thanks to WCA member Harry Jameson who is my expert Esopus Creek advisor having operated the Town Tinker Tube Rental for the past 31 years. There is not many river conditions that he hasn't seen. And I appreciate him sharing his expertise with us.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Handmade Bicycle Show
WCA member James Wolfe sent me this link to some photos of his bamboo bicycles in the North American Handmade Bike Show. It is a cool ride! Check it out for yourself at the link below:
http://www.chrisgomezphoto.com/nahbs/h23bc70f1#hccbb06c
http://www.chrisgomezphoto.com/nahbs/h23bc70f1#hccbb06c
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Creekside WV Home for Sale
WCA member and real estate agent Lynn Davidson asked me to post this listing on the blog. It is the home of another WCA member here in Woodland Valley that is on the market. If you are interested please contact Lynn at:
Lynn Davidson
Main: (845) 679-0006
Westwood Metes & Bounds
lynnd@westwoodrealty.com
DRAMATIC SETTING IN WOODLAND VALLEY ON THE CREEK WITH MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY VIEWS. FISH FROM YOUR FRONT YARD IN WORLD FAMOUS TROUT STREAM. VERY PRIVATE LOCATION, BUT NOT SECLUDED WITH SOUTHERN EXPOSURE. ABOUT 2.5 MILES FROM PHOENICIA. BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED WITH OAK FLOORS AND CYPRUS PANELING. OPEN FLOOR PLAN IS GREAT FOR ENTERTAINING WITH SLIDERS LEADING TO SCREENED-IN PORCH AND DECK. APPROX. 400' ON THE CREEK INCLUDES A BUILDABLE LOT. 10 MINUTES TO BELLEAYRE.
Lynn Davidson
Main: (845) 679-0006
Westwood Metes & Bounds
lynnd@westwoodrealty.com
DRAMATIC SETTING IN WOODLAND VALLEY ON THE CREEK WITH MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY VIEWS. FISH FROM YOUR FRONT YARD IN WORLD FAMOUS TROUT STREAM. VERY PRIVATE LOCATION, BUT NOT SECLUDED WITH SOUTHERN EXPOSURE. ABOUT 2.5 MILES FROM PHOENICIA. BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED WITH OAK FLOORS AND CYPRUS PANELING. OPEN FLOOR PLAN IS GREAT FOR ENTERTAINING WITH SLIDERS LEADING TO SCREENED-IN PORCH AND DECK. APPROX. 400' ON THE CREEK INCLUDES A BUILDABLE LOT. 10 MINUTES TO BELLEAYRE.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Donations in Memory of Thomas Alba
The Alba family has requested that anyone in the community who would like to make a donation in memory of Thomas should send it to "The Kids in the Kaatskills". They are a wonderful organization that provides a broad program of art, crafts and movement for kids in our area (all free). Last summer they did a lot of events at the Phoenicia library. I talked to the director on the phone earlier this evening and she said any donations she receives will go towards the 2011 summer program. Here is how you can make the donation:
Make all checks payable to:
Kids in the Kaatskills
Mail them to:
Kids in the Kaatskills
PO Box 1017
Margaretville, NY
12455
Make all checks payable to:
Kids in the Kaatskills
Mail them to:
Kids in the Kaatskills
PO Box 1017
Margaretville, NY
12455
