An exploratory process for monitoring recreation use impacts to waterbodies within Adirondack Forest Preserve Lands

The lakes, ponds, and impoundments located within the Forest Preserve of the Adirondack Park, NY, are highly valued for their biological, natural, and aesthetic qualities. Pressures on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems created by recreational use and related development have gained recognition as a potential source of impact to Forest Preserve waters. The agency responsible for managing these lands and waters, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, strives to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining quality natural resource conditions. A multi-disciplinary approach was taken in designing a protocol to quantify and monitor the physical, chemical, and biological impacts created by recreational use and development that can adversely affect Forest Preserve waterbodies. Consideration was given to the parameters that should be monitored the methods used for measurement feasibility issues sampling design and other human and natural factors that may influence measurement results and changes in water quality.