Keep Debar Pond wild!

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is developing a Unit Management Plan/Draft Environmental Impact Statement (UMP DEIS) for the Debar Mountain Complex (DMC). The Debar Pond Lodge Site (DPLS) is a site located within the Debar Mountain Wild Forest at the north end of Debar Pond. The DPLS contains the only buildings along the shore of this remote 87-acre pond. The pond is framed by Debar, Loon Lake, and Baldface mountains. The entire shoreline of Debar Pond is owned by New York State.

We gathered signatures for a petition to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) asking them to move forward with their proposed “Preferred Alternative.” Located amidst the northernmost mountains of the Adirondack Park, this pond deserves a wild future.

We would like to see Debar preserved as a wild destination—no lodge, no pavilions, no septic systems. Just the sighing wind through the pine trees as sunlight strikes the rugged mountainsides. This place is already easily accessible and requires no artificial enhancements.

Unparalleled beauty. No non-conforming structures.

Debar Pond is an unspoiled, fjord-like glacial lake unique in the Adirondacks. The pond and shoreline are wholly contained in the Debar Mountain Wild Forest and the only development on the shore is an empty lodge and outbuildings at the northern end. Although it is only a mile from the nearest highway, the pond offers an outstanding experience of unspoiled remoteness and solitude. With a short, easy path from the parking area to the shore, Debar Pond is an unparalleled opportunity for anyone, including those with mobility limitations, to experience a stunning, truly wild place.

Adirondack Wilderness Advocates support the following proposed actions in the Debar Mountain Complex UMP DEIS:

Removal of structures and the reuse of any elements as feasible.
A natural shoreline for Debar Pond that honors the wildness of the place.
Public recreation facilities, including an access route to Debar Pond for persons with disabilities, but nothing should be visible from the water, including lean-tos. Other than a privy, any other “recreation facilities” will detract from the inherently wild and peaceful landscape at this location
Interpretive signage

Improve the area’s trail system by adding to existing trail networks, creating new trail networks, building new connector trails, and rerouting poorly located trails.
Improve access to recreation opportunities by addressing deficiencies at existing parking areas, building new parking areas, and providing better access to water bodies
Construct new primitive tent sites and close tent sites which are not in compliance with the Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan

A lakeside scene during winter with snow on rocks and shrubs in the foreground, a calm lake, forested shore, and snow-covered mountains in the background, under cloudy sky.

Read more!

DEC Draft Unit Management Plan