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Chair
Jul 1, 2025
Tom Wheeler
adk3356@gmail.com
How Long is “Forever (Wild)”?
It appears that the current federal administration is planning to strip protection from a number of lands in the country designated as national monuments. In my opinion this can only lead to degradation of unique lands and habitats which prior administrations have chosen to protect. These lands, mostly in the West, contain areas of wilderness and landscapes of extraordinary beauty. They are inhabited by species of plants and animals adapted to the landscape, many of which are already classified as endangered or threatened.
Our Adirondack Park protects extensive wild lands. The state constitution has provisions protecting public (i.e., Forest Preserve) lands in the Park, declaring them to be kept “Forever Wild.”
In the past there have been a number of efforts to eliminate, limit, or avoid the protections afforded these lands. We should all understand that “Forever Wild” can be undone in two sessions of the state legislature and a single vote of the public. How long “Forever” is depends on the citizens of New York State and, that means most of you.
The threats we see on the federal level to environmental protection of air and water quality, to our waterways, and to our public lands is a warning. We mustn’t take our Adirondack Park for granted. Public support (and that means your support) for these very special lands is crucial. We want to ensure that the benefits of these wild lands can be enjoyed by our children and grandchildren.
Make certain that your senators and state representatives are aware of your support. Be an advocate for these lands and don’t hesitate to express your personal views.
I have always thought that the best advocates for the Park are those who have experienced the Adirondacks: those who have walked in the forests, have been awed by the view from high on a mountain, have paddled a quiet stretch of a stream, have heard the cry of the loon from a campsite. This summer is one of the best times to have these experiences and to have them inspire your advocacy for wild lands.