Au Naturel Cuisine

            With the rising costs of meat production and transportation, the food industry must search for sustainable protein raising methods. Some brave folks have taken the issue into their own hands by capitalizing on the byproduct of a common accident. Road kill, especially in wild areas like the Adirondacks, occurs frequently and results in the unfortunate death of wildlife. However, road kill need not always be unfortunate, as it presents an opportunity to utilize the meat of the dead animal.

While some might balk at the idea of consuming meat left on the side of the road, many find the act justified for both sustainability and ethical reasons. An unlikely proponent of meat consumption, philosopher Peter Singer even finds the consumption of road kill preferable to standard consumption as he says “If an animal has been killed in an accident…and if this dead animal is a source of food, why not eat it when it is edible?” (Kendall). Since the ethical impurities of killing an animal accidently are deemed less than those of raising animals for slaughter, road kill consumption has the potential to persuade even the staunchest animal rights proponents of its practicality.

Humans are not the only group that might benefit from this free source of meat as demonstrated by the Adirondack Wildlife Refuge’s call for any and all road kill to feed its animals. Most commonly, the Refuge seeks road kill to feed its sheltered wolves. The group consistently posts on its Facebook page urging Adirondack residents to report road kill so that they might quickly reclaim the meat. This use of the road kill can’t possibly have any negative attachments and serves the refuge well. Although a bizarre practice born from an unfortunate accident, road kill consumption turns a negative into a positive and is ultimately an easy way to capitalize on a free protein source.

Works Cited

ADK. "Adirondack Wildlife Refuge." FaceBook. December 2015Web. <https://www.facebook.com/Adirondack-Wildlife-Refuge-145482135468668/?fref=nf>.

Kendall, Gillian. "The Greater Good." The Sun. May 2011Web. <http://thesunmagazine.org/issues/425/the_greater_good>.

El Nino?

          This fall we were spoiled with more beautiful sunny days at Hamilton than I have seen in the entire previous two years combined.  While I was happy to accept the extension of the summer in to the fall, it was constantly apparent that “winter was coming”.  However, to many students’ delight the uncharacteristically warm temperatures have seemed to only just taper off in to more mild unseasonal temperatures.  For me, I have become tired of choosing between wearing shorts or a coat every morning and am ready for Clinton to get back to its old wintry ways.  The chatter about weather that fills conversational voids has worn out the remarks blaming this season’s conditions on “global warming” or “El Nino”.  It is clear that those who use the former as reasoning for the mild temperatures are joking (I hope), because to support the theory of anthropomorphic climate change with the volatile weather patterns of CNY would be ridiculous, right?  All jokes aside it has become increasingly clear that despite everyone talking about the infamous El Nino, no one really knows exactly what it means.

            The El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle a term that describes the fluctuations in atmospheric and ocean temperatures in the east-central Equatorial Pacific.  El Nino meaning “The Little Boy” is the warm phase of the temperature fluctuations as sea surface temperatures in the Pacific are above average.  The presence of these warmer sea temperatures and their interaction with the atmospheric climate can have significant effect on weather patterns, ocean conditions, and marine fisheries across portions of the globe for 9-12 months at a time (noaa.gov).  After last years harsh winter cold, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted the effects of a strong El Nino will lead to “above-average temperatures and below average precipitation over the northern tier of the United States” in to Spring 2016.

            Meteorologist Darrin Harr begs to differ, stating that while El Nino plays an important role in the weather patterns, it is not the only piece of the puzzle.  Harr is predicting that a combination of other factors along with El Nino showing signs that it is reaching its peak will result in a cold and snowy winter in the Adirondacks.  According to Harr, Siberian snow cover, warm Northeastern Pacific sea temperature, and the severe drought in the western states will play roles in shaping the Northeast’s winter weather forecast. The early fall snow covers in Siberia results in a higher albedo across the vast area, which weakens the regions polar vortex effects, and forces the cold air south in to the Northeastern United States.  The warm water present in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean has a similar effect, funneling cold Siberian air towards the Eastern US.  The ongoing draught in the West is credited with amplifying both of these effects (adirondacklifemag.com).  It is pretty fascinating to learn that weather on the other side of the globe is closely connected to our local forecast.  Moral of the story, we really don’t know what this winter will look like and we will have to wait to see.    Meanwhile, I’ll be doing my snow dance.

 

Winter storm Nemo aftermath in Portland. ME

Cited

http://www.adirondacklifemag.com/blogs/2015/10/22/will-el-nino-mean-a-snowless-adirondack-winter/

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/ninonina.html

Climate Change in the Adirondacks

For much of the second half of the semester, we have been focusing on the damage done to the park by developers and recreationalists. However, climate change also plays a major role in the health and sustainability of the park. As we have learned, the Adirondacks is especially vulnerable to the threat of climate change because of its thin, nutrient-depleted soils. Acid rain presents one of the greatest threats to the forests in the region, which are inherently more vulnerable to acidic soil conditions because of the harsh Adirondack climate. Winds funneling from the Midwest pollute the Adirondack region in the form of acid rain, snow, sleet, fog and dry particles. However, looking to end the semester on a positive note, I found that acid rain conditions have shown great improvements in the area. The International Acid Rain Conference held this past October announced that the pollutants that cause acid rain have curbed sharply. These pollutants, primarily nitrogen oxides and sulfur have declined broadly across America. As the nation transitions away from coal and other fossil fuels, and begins to invest in clean energy, we are beginning to see great results. New York State has seen a drop in sulfur-based air pollution at a rate of 92 percent since 1985. Nitrogen oxides have also decreased by more than 70 percent.  

One success story involves the fish populations in Silver Lake. During the 1970s, the lake was for the most part considered dead. More than half of its fish had suffocated from gill damage cause by acid rain. Populations continued to drop because the pH remained too low for the fish to reproduce. Today, however, the chemical balance has recovered and the fish populations are thriving again. Brook trout are being caught at record-breaking sizes and the people are starting to enjoy the benefits of clean water. 

Looking towards the future, we should use the success story of the acid rain dilemma to motivate to reduce other forms of climate change. New York and the EPA are using a cap-and-trade program to give financial incentives for companies to reduce their levels of pollution. While levels of acidity in the region’s water sources have shown great improvements, fish populations are still at danger of suffering from rising temperatures in the rivers and streams. However, society as a whole seems to be shifting towards more environmentally conscious forms of living, including the cars we drive, the food we eat, and the energy we consume. This gives some hope for the future. Climate change poses a major threat for the Adirondacks, and we should focus our efforts not only on controlling sustainable development in the park, but also in reducing the effect of climate change and pollution from inside, and outside sources.


Sources Cited:
http://www.adirondackalmanack.com/2015/12/57463.html
http://acidrain2015.org

What Do We Do Now?

As the year and semester come to an end, it is time for us to ask ourselves an important question. What do we do now? What do we do with all this knowledge of Adirondacks? We have been so lucky to have studied, dissected, and explored the history and ecology of this incredible place, but now what do we do about it? There are many whose interests lie in distant fields, so pursuing the path of environmental activism may not be an appealing or realistic one. However, even if this is the case, the important idea is to keep caring about the Adirondacks, even if you aren't the head of a committee or a member of an environmental club of some kind. There are other little things that people can do to make a difference in the park even from the position of a tourist.
It is so important to be a responsible explorer of the Adirondacks. Not only must we be respectful and aware of the ecological environment around us, but also of the human community we are surrounded by. Here are some important things to remember for the every day lover of the Adirondacks:

  

1. Hike, camp, work, play, explore responsibly
Think before you toss that wrapper or bushwhack off that path. Instead of crunching over fragile lichen or possible nesting grounds, be happy with the selfie that you take on the trail, and try not to wander off it. Bring a trash bag with you to pick up stray trail mix bags or other litter that you or other hikers may have left behind by accident. If you're renting a cabin or if you've set up camp for the summer, make sure you are aware of harmful invasive plants or animals in the area so you don't unknowingly help them spread! Also, remember that people actually live in this park, so instead of revving the motor of your snowmobile in the middle of the night as you pass a home in the dark, save your excursions for more secluded roads and choose reasonable hours. The same goes for any kind of recreation that may disturb the local residents of the park.

2. Buy local
This is so important. The Adirondack Park is not just a playground for tourists, explorers, and adventurers. It is the site of many many livelihoods, homes, jobs, etc. etc. By supporting local businesses and farms when you're in the park, you are giving back to a place that has given you so much joy. There are many struggling communities in the Adirondacks, so instead of going to shop at that huge chain store that you can find in your own state, check out the unique local stores that you pass on the way to a mountain or fishing spot.

3. Use your vote
For those New Yorkers living outside the park, your vote can still make a difference! Pay attention during elections, and see who is advocating for environmental preservation. Avoid supporting those who have no interest in helping the park's ecosystems as well as the economy. The government has a huge say in what gets done and what is put off in terms of environmental issues, and if nothing is done, nothing will get better. Make a difference and take the time to vote for what will help the Adirondacks.

4. Educate others

The John Brown farm and gravesite

Think of how much of the information that was presented to us this semester was completely new to us. Do you think your sister of brother have any idea what alpine ecosystems are like, or does your best friend know how important the writings of William H. H. Murray were to the tourist movement? Share the knowledge you found so fascinating with your friends and family. Only then will they begin to value the park as you do!

5. Little everyday green acts
These are so so so easy. Unplug your computer and shut it down at night, or when you're not using it. Take shorter showers. Turn off unnecessary lights or appliances. Buy less stuff. Eat everything in your fridge. Bike more, drive less. Pick up trash. Slowly but surely make the switch to renewable energy. If you are an example to others, more and more people will begin to make a difference. Climate change is a huge threat to the Adirondacks' ecosystems, and slowing that down will not only help the park, but will help our world.

6. Keep learning, and build knowledge of your own community

Keep up with news of the Adirondacks and causes you might want to support even from afar. There is still so much to learn about the environment, culture, and history of this place. But also, try to develop the same level of knowledge and awareness that you have of the Adirondacks with your own community at home. It could be that you have no idea how your own town was founded or what endangered ecosystems exist in your back yard. What green movements and improvements can be started in your city or school or own house. Stay connected with your own community and stay involved.

Thank you for reading, and if you have anything to add to this list, please leave a comment below!
Have a wonderful winter holiday everyone!

Sources:
http://adkinvasives.com
http://www.adirondackalmanack.com

Images:
First image is my own
http://www.lakeplacid.com/blog/2015/12/5-winter-things-you-dont-know
http://www.lakeplacid.com/do/activities/john-browns-farm-state-historic-site#
http://www.sugarhousecreamery.com/farm-store/

Tater-tastic

Source: www.burpee.com

Bet you weren’t expecting this: the Adirondacks has a famous potato- and it’s blue. Cornell University School of Integrative Plant Science has a potato breeding program headed by Robert Plaisted, Ken Paddock, and Walter De Jong, who created this blue variety of potato. While the potato was officially released in 2003, it was first grown experimentally in a large scale setting at Tucker Farms, Inc. in Gabriels, NY in 2002. At this time, the potato was simply known as S45-5, but Tom and Steve Tucker, who run the farm, suggested that the potato have a common name for marketing. Thus, the Adirondack Blue potato was born. The Adirondack Blue is a spreading plant and produces round or oval shaped tubers with a deep purple skin and flesh. It can easily withstand the harsh Adirondack climate, making it an ideal crop for the area, although it is still susceptible to most common potato diseases, including common scab, Golden nematode, and late blight.

The Adirondack Blue has been gaining popularity in speciality foods and farmer’s markets. It has a distinctive flavor sometimes described as ‘rich’ and ‘nutty’ and can be prepared like almost any other potato: baked, mashed, roasted, steamed, boiled, or even made into chips or fries. It holds its color extremely well during cooking, fading only when boiled to produce a different shade of blue. After cooking, the potato is firm but moist, holds its shape, and is less mealy that the All Blue variety. It is very high in antioxidants, especially in the skin, associated with reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.

Yet it’s the color that makes these potatoes a hit. Blue potatoes aren’t exactly new; the color is caused by high levels of anthocyanins, which also give pomegranates, blueberries, and purple cabbage their color. However, blue potatoes are not widely embraced and most of the public does not know they exist. People are simply dumbfounded by the vibrancy. Penn State alumni have started producing them as school spirit potato chips. Still, many restaurants prefer shipping in Russets or Yukon Gold potatoes across the country for cheap. Cornell, in partnership with many New York farmers are working to educate chefs and integrate the Adirondack Blue and other local varieties into the New York diet.

Sources:

http://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/theres-joy-in-the-blues-8212-potatoes-that-is/

http://www.tuckertaters.com/p_d_ad_blue.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/14/dining/14spuds.html?_r=0

A Very Adirondack Christmas

Although many recreational activities in the Adirondacks are ideal for summer months, tourism is always alive and well in the winter. In the spirit of the holiday season, here’s a look at annual events everyone looks forward to for an Adirondack Christmas.

Santa Claus in front of his Adirondack residence.
Source: http://www.northpoleny.com/

North Pole in the Adirondacks: North Pole, NY is a hamlet in the foothills of Whiteface Mountain, where Santa’s Workshop, one of America’s first theme parks, has be operating since 1949. Throughout December, it offers Yuletide Family Weekends which includes lodging, breakfasts, dinners, entrance to Santa’s Workshop, and entertainment for two days. Special features often include holiday rides, live reindeer, carolers, Nativity pageants, holiday skits, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa Claus himself.

Adirondack Christmas on Main Street: The towns of Inlet and Old Forge team together for a weekend-long celebration right after Thanksgiving to celebrate the holiday season. Events include tree lightings in both towns, parades (including a holiday dog parade), horse drawn carriage rides, candy cane hunts, contests, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

North Country Christmas: Ticonderoga hosts a week-long festival in early December to ring in the season. Highlights of the week are the tree lighting ceremony, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train, family book readings, the Fourth of July in December BBQ, and SantaFest.

Sparkle Village Arts & Crafts Fair: The Adirondacks are home to amazing artists and craftspeople who have all sorts of gifts available for sale at this fair in Saranac Lake. It’s one of the largest craft shows in the Adirondacks and over the course of one weekend, over 1,500 visitors are expected. You can find pottery, photography, knitwear, original paintings, jewelry, candles, and more from over 40 different vendors.

Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll: A classic winter destination, Lake Placid offers a weekend full of mostly free special events including music, shows, children’s activities, wine tastings and gourmet food samplings from local restaurants, and specialty shopping. Skating party, Jingle Bell run/walk, Breakfast with santa, performances of “A Christmas Carol”, Yule log hunt, tree lighting,

First Night Saranac Lake: Saranac Lake rings in the New Year with a family-oriented celebration of the arts, including 17 acts and 37 performances this year, from live music, to opera, puppet shows, and improv comedy groups. Saranac Lake hosts its own ball drop and firework display at midnight.

Source: http://www.adirondack.net/holiday/annual-events.cfm