Adventures in the Finger Lakes

If this blog post is finding you, I’m grateful! I accidentally, wrecked my blog this summer and I’m hopeful to have it back up.

2023 has been full of change, with an aim of resiliency and sustainability. Priority projects and needs are being attended, and an endless commute is a fading memory.

Moore Dirty Boots can now boast about three incredible collections of educator materials to utilize during events beside our lakes. Gifted by NY Sea Grant, the Great Lakes Basin Bin, Trash Trunk and Marine Debris kit will enhance our programming with so many cool tools, lesson plans and visual aids!

We’ve been sharing our message to become stewards of our area, affectionately referred to as L.O.V.E. for Lake Ontario’s Valued Ecosystems. New friends have gathered debris from beaches, listened attentively during guided walks and shared yummy snacks.

Our affinity for the East Bay Wildlife Management Area, led us to begin a voluntary stewardship agreement with NYS DEC for all of our lake shore marshes. Frequent surveying of these spaces leads to impromptu meetings with allies like Forest Ranger Jane Raffaldi-Smith. Together, we quickly removed debris from the Red Creek Marsh Unit that was more than either of us could remove alone.

As we deepen our relationships upon Lake Ontario’s southern shore, we hope to lead field trips for local students in our wildlife management areas. Experienced colleagues in birding and conservation are eager to work together to engage people of all ages in our amazing outdoor classrooms! Becoming a member in New York State’s Outdoor Educators Association is another way I hope to connect with other educators and continue to deliver innovative programming within my local community.

We’re so thankful for the opportunity to focus on health, happiness, resiliency and sustainability. These are challenges we all face, yet with mindfulness and bravery we may do better.

Thank you for supporting, witnessing and perhaps participating in this journey! ~Kristen