Technology For Outdoor Adventures – Oneida Dispatch

Earlier this summer, my old friend and outdoors partner, Yukon Tom Van Pelt, and I were sitting around and discussing some past adventures in the Adirondacks and Alaska. Obviously, many things have changed, including the tools or the preparation for adventures. Yet, as we reacted with memories of times and journeys and the exhilaration many of them brought, we knew that the times for most of them have passed.

But it wasn’t just that realization that made us aware that the time for many of those trips had slid past. If you look around at the technological innovations, there are so many that we would never have dreamed of in our younger days. For example, our trip to Anan Bay, Alaska, was based on the minimalist gear that cut down on the weight of our plane flight through some really nasty weather. Today there are super-light, high-performance sleeping bags and clothing that can even fit in the bottom of a backpack for hiking or biking. In addition, carefully planned and rationed de-hydrated food will fill the fare for many trips.

Consider that the old standard aluminum canoe, which weighed 90 lbs, has been relegated to camp use by newer, lighter ones that tip the scales at anywhere from 15 to 39 lbs. Footwear of neoprene, leather or a mixture of synthetics provides lightweight comfort, warmth, and waterproof wear. Except in Alaska, where the standard is Xtratuff rubber boots for 95% of the population! Compound bows are a prime example of technological change.

Lightweight and waterproof clothing is taken for granted today. But, of course, this makes a big difference when you are traveling any distance in nasty weather. And of course, the use of modern smartphones with all their features and apps has really revolutionized communication and travel – whenever there is a signal. But, of course, that remains a big “if” for much of the Adirondacks.

The reliance on satellite signal and battery power have been limiting factors in much of the Adirondacks up until now. This is also true for GPS units. I had to guide fellow hunters out of a hellacious swamp a couple of times using my goose calls. Dark days, overcast conifers, and other things interfere with the signals. Nevertheless, something is comforting about being able to pinpoint your location, overlay map grids, and share your position with others.

But this is not a rant against technology or the “younger generation being soft or unskilled.” Time and technology move on. The key is that we understand and try to use it even if you are not on the “cutting edge.”

Indeed, we should still keep in mind our other outdoor skills and our powers of observation. Consider the situation about 20 years ago when Mike Seymour and I were fishing in western Alaska, and our guide got us lost on the tundra. We were sitting in an Argo (oversized ATV) 30 miles from the Bering Sea, with no compass, GPS, or landmarks. Moreover, it was overcast, so there was no possibility of using the midnight sun for guidance.

After riding around aimlessly for an hour or two, I suggested that a break in the clouds might be east. For the last couple of nights, we had been sitting on the porch at camp, and Mike commented on the break in the clouds but based on the big bend in the Nushagak River that was east while our weather was coming from the Bering Sea, 30 miles to the west. So, having nothing else to go on, we haltingly set out that way. Riding the tundra is like driving in a room full of basketballs, but at about 2 am. Finally, we heard a glorious sound of civilization: the generator from one of the other fishing camps on the Nushagak River!

By 3:30, we were safe but exhausted, back at camp (thanks to a little woodsmanship from a couple of guys from upstate New York.)

Since then, I have carried and used GPS in the Rocky Mts. In Colorado or remote areas of the Adirondacks. Knowing where we stand on a satellite-imposed grid offers an illusion of certainty, security, and control. Yet, keeping wired alters the entire context of the wild and how we perceive wilderness. The whole point of wilderness seems to be shifting out from under us. If you don’t think so, try leaving those electronic gadgets at home next time and see how it feels.

SHORT CASTS

Recent Changes to NYS Firearms

Frequently Asked Questions New Gun Laws. With supreme court rulings, New York passing new firearms regulations, etc., there has been a lot of confusion. Keep in mind that there is bound to be lawsuits, rulings, etc., that may simplify – or add to the confusion. For now, here is a simplification by the NYS Conservation Council, at least as they pertain to hunters.

1. How does the new gun law affect hunting?

The new gun law does NOT affect lawful hunting in New York. The law provides exemptions to allow for lawful hunting in areas otherwise restricted due to their listing as “sensitive” or “restricted” locations. However, it may affect other activities, such as the storage of your hunting guns.

2. Does the new gun law affect where I can hunt?

Hunting is still allowed on DEC lands, wildlife management areas, and state forests, including those in the Adirondacks or Catskills. Many State Parks will continue to offer hunting opportunities. Check the websites of state parks.

On private lands, you must obtain personal permission from every property owner of lands you intend to hunt prior to going afield.

3. When I am traveling to hunt by car, how do I need to store my firearm?

If you are going to leave your gun unintended in your vehicle, it must be locked in a secure hard container and hidden from view. A case is not required if an adult remains with the vehicle to ensure security.

New Adirondack Shuttle Route

The DEC and Essex County Launch New Adirondack Shuttle Route: Frontier Town Gateway Shuttle provides free transport from North Hudson for thru-hikers and fall foliage viewers. Service on select August and October weekends hopes to promote safety on roads and popular trailheads.

The DEC and Essex County are launching a new shuttle to help manage sustainable and safe visitation to backcountry destinations in the Adirondacks. It will build on the pre-existing Route 73 shuttle and provide access to some of the region’s most scenic locations.

On August 8 and 15, visitors can board the shuttle at the Frontier Town Gateway to begin their overnight camping trip by thru-hiking one of the most unique wilderness areas without the burden of parking a vehicle at both ends. The shuttle will drop riders off at the Adirondak Loj in North Elba to provide entry to the High Peaks. Visitors would then hike and camp overnight for up to three nights and four days as they make their way to the opposite side of the High Peaks Wilderness to the Tahawus
Upper Works trailhead in Newcomb. The shuttle will pick up participating rides at 2 pm daily before taking them back to the Frontier Town Gateway.

The shuttle will accommodate up to 20 people, and pre-registration for the August trips is required. Sign up at the Love Your Adirondacks website.

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