Old Forge, Adirondacks, September 13, 2025
News Summary
This past holiday weekend in the Adirondacks was marked by successful fishing trips at Woodhull Lake and crucial conservation efforts, including the rescue of a Loon. Rainfall helped improve conditions, yet concerns about local ponds and fire risks lingered. The Old Forge Garden Club’s plant sale saw remarkable success, featuring over 200 flowering plants. Meanwhile, the ’90-Miler’ Adirondack Canoe Classic event attracted participants, highlighting the area’s recreational spirit.
Old Forge, Adirondacks: Successful Fishing and Conservation Efforts Mark Holiday Weekend
This past holiday weekend in the Adirondacks was characterized by both successful fishing trips and important conservation efforts. Rainfall totaling one and a half inches over the weekend helped to alleviate some dry conditions, although it was noted that local ponds remain low.
Significant rainfall from thunderstorms on Thursday, September 4, and light rain on Saturday, September 6, was welcomed by residents and nature enthusiasts alike. However, much of this rainfall was absorbed by the forest, leaving a local pond about a foot low. Despite the improved weather conditions, no migrating shorebirds were observed around the pond’s bare edge—a stark contrast to previous years when such birds were common in similar situations.
Meanwhile, fishing enthusiasts had a fruitful day at Woodhull Lake, with many bass hiding in visible, sunken stumps beneath the water. These conditions indicate a favorable environment for fishing, which contributed to recreational opportunities in the area.
While the rain made for a pleasant weekend, the dry conditions leading up to it raised concerns about surface fires. A significant leaf drop created additional risks, prompting calls for visitors to clear away burnable materials before lighting campfires. This caution was underscored by a recent fire incident in the Moose River Area, where a fire sparked by campers building a fire on duff consumed approximately three acres. Efforts to control the blaze included the use of portable pumps flown in by Forest Rangers and bulldozer-assisted digging of a fire line led by Forest Ranger Jerry Husson.
During operations to control the fire, a thunderstorm helped by dropping nearly two inches of rain, although the fire continued to burn underground in duff. Awareness of fire risks remains emphasized across the region, particularly as fall approaches.
In addition to fishing successes, the weekend saw conservation efforts in action. A Loon was discovered in a construction parking area south of Boonville and was subsequently rescued. After examination and rehabilitation at the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation, the bird was banded and returned to the wild—a positive outcome for local wildlife.
Civic engagement also played a role over the weekend, with the Old Forge Garden Club hosting its annual plant sale at the Old Forge Library despite intermittent inclement weather. The event featured over 200 flowering plants, many of which are deer-resistant and expected to flourish in local gardens next summer. The sale was remarkably successful, aided by creative efforts to attract customers.
Additionally, the “90-Miler” Adirondack Canoe Classic event proceeded without significant issues, although challenges were encountered along the way. This event continues to draw participants and spectators to the region, highlighting the recreational spirit of the Adirondacks.
Gary Lee, a former Forest Ranger with 35 years of experience, provided context to the weekend’s events, showcasing an ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and public safety in the region.
Key Highlights
- Rainfall of 1.5 inches, improving conditions but still leaving ponds low.
- Successful fishing at Woodhull Lake revealed active bass populations.
- A fire incident sparked due to improper campfire practices consumed three acres.
- A rescued Loon was rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
- Old Forge Garden Club’s plant sale was the most successful in years.
- The “90-Miler” Adirondack Canoe Classic experienced minor challenges but proceeded successfully.
About the Author
Gary Lee shares insights gained from his extensive career as a Forest Ranger and passion for wildlife conservation.
FAQs
What is the significance of the recent rainfall in the Adirondacks?
The recent rainfall was critical in improving dry conditions but did not fully restore local bodies of water to their normal levels.
What were some highlights of the fishing and conservation events?
Highlights included a successful fishing day at Woodhull Lake, a fire incident that required significant resources to control, and the rehabilitation and release of a Loon.
How did the Old Forge Garden Club’s plant sale perform this year?
The plant sale was the most successful the club has had in years, featuring over 200 deer-resistant flowering plants.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Rainfall | 1.5 inches received, local ponds remain low. |
| Fishing Report | Successful at Woodhull Lake; bass hiding in sunken stumps. |
| Fire Incident | Fire in Moose River Area consumed roughly three acres due to improper campfire safety. |
| Loon Rescue | A Loon was rescued, rehabilitated, and released. |
| Garden Club Sale | Over 200 plants sold; best sale performance on record. |
| 90-Miler Event | Held successfully despite some logistical challenges. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Adirondack Almanack: Fishing with Grandson Jake & Rescuing a Loon
- Wikipedia: Fishing
- UticaOD: Remsen Man Drowns While Fishing
- Google Search: Adirondack Lake drownings
- Dougherty Funeral: James Woodhull Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Adirondack Almanack: New Rules for Fishing in the Adirondacks
- Google News: Fishing Rules Adirondacks
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
