Family Fun




  • Last Free Fishing Day this year

    Fall’s free pass to try fishing

    November 11 (Veterans Day) is the last day of 2025 that the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • DEC seeks inspiring images of trees for Annual Poster Contest

    The annual Arbor Day Poster contest encourages photographers and artists of all ages to submit images that capture the power and beauty of trees. read more »
  • NYS Birding Trail has expanded again!

    12 new locations added

    The new additions provide a diversity of habitats that include forests, meadows, vernal pools, streams, and peat bogs. read more »
  • 2025 I Bird NY Challenge

    Win prizes and have a blast

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced the start of the 2025 ‘I BIRD NY’ Challenge for birders of all ages and abilities. The challenge provides opportunities to identify birds and learn about birdlife and awards program finishers with a commemorative I BIRD NY Challenge patch and the chance to win birding equipment. read more »
  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • Add Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations

    Get your hosting game on with this recipe

    Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat. read more »