It’s a significant moment in time for outdoor enthusiasts as a sprawling 1,220 acres of brand-new state forest is unveiled. Located just a few miles from the eastern border of Chautauqua County and near the west-central north border of Cattaraugus County, this land, once the site of the Bluemont Ski Resort, was officially designated by the DEC as the Blue Hill State Forest in September 2024. Situated in Yorkshire, just north of Delevan, this marks the first state forest added to the Western New York region since 1963, significantly expanding the recreational opportunities for the public.

The property is a diverse ecosystem, boasting flourishing forests, serene ponds and open fields, with the added bonus of access to the picturesque Cattaraugus Creek on its northern border. This new state forest is not just a recreational haven for the public, but also a sanctuary for wildlife, supporting increased habitat restoration and ecosystem health. The removal of the old ski resort buildings and the upcoming property assessment are just the beginning of the exciting journey for this new local entity, managed under the Cattaraugus County Unit Management Plan. While the mission statement for Blue Hill is still in the works, state forests are typically open to public hunting, except in intensive-use areas, promising thrilling wildlife encounters for all nature enthusiasts.

As part of DEC Region 9, Wildlife Management Unit 9M, big game hunters that seek black bear and whitetail deer in the fall will relish this new public access opportunity. Small-game hunters will find squirrels, ruffed grouse and other species as part of the management plan. Trappers highly seek furbearers such as beavers, fisher, fox and coyote. There are two waterway dams on the site that may be of high interest to shore-based anglers. All the fishing, hunting, trapping, hiking and such adventures as camping, ATV use, snowmobile use, bird watching, and more are subject to the license and participation rules and regulations of the NYSDEC.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Jan. 21: Erie County Fish Advisory Board, monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Bison City Rod and Gun, 510 Ohio St., Buffalo, open to the public.