ALBANY, NY (May 25, 2025) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) encourages outdoor enthusiasts to support trail maintenance by purchasing a trail supporter patch for $5 each. The 3-inch diameter patches feature a new design showcasing a classic lean-to by a wooded lake with mountains in the background, reflecting the over 250 lean-tos managed by DEC across the state for primitive camping.
In 2023, DEC offered activity patches with five designs based on international trail symbols for various recreational activities, available while supplies last. These patches support the maintenance and enhancement of over 3,500 miles of non-motorized trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and other activities on State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas, Forest Preserve, and Multiple Use Areas.
Patches can be ordered online through DEC’s hunting and fishing license portal, by phone at (866) 933-2257, or at locations selling sporting licenses, where outlets may display flyers advertising the patch program. Orders are fulfilled and mailed from DEC’s Albany office, with delivery expected within 4-6 weeks. Organizations interested in bulk patch sales or resales can contact the Trail Supporter Patch Coordinator at volunteer.stewardship@dec.ny.gov.
Funds from patch sales are deposited into the Conservation Fund’s Outdoor Recreation, Trail Maintenance, and Development Account, supporting DEC’s Volunteer Stewardship Program and trail improvements on notable trails like the Northville-Placid Trail, Finger Lakes Trail, and Long Path.
For more information, contact the Division of Lands and Forests at 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233, or call 518-402-9405.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.