DEC to limit vehicle access to Black Pond Wildlife Management Area in town of Henderson

Gate to Interior Parking Lot to Close May 27 through Sept. 6 

WATERTOWN, NY —  The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the May 27 closure of the gate to the interior parking lot of Black Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in the town of Henderson, Jefferson County. The gate will remain closed through Labor Day and reopen on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022. DEC closes the gate every year to protect the WMA.

The Black Pond WMA is a natural wetland complex consisting of dune, open water, emergent marsh, and wooded/shrub swamp. The area is a significant coastal fish and wildlife habitat. Visitors will be able to walk from the outer parking lot area to the boardwalk. However, the portion of the boardwalk that leads to Lake Ontario is closed due to damage caused by flooding events.

Visitors with documented access limitations can apply for and obtain a CP-3 permit through the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD), which will allow use of a vehicle to access the interior parking lot.