The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has temporarily closed part of the Stanley J. Hamlin Marsh Wildlife Management Area in Onondaga County following a fire that damaged a boardwalk and viewing blind.
DEC officials said the closure affects the trail at the Old Wetzel Road access point in the Town of Clay. The fire occurred Wednesday, May 13, and is currently under investigation by the DEC Division of Law Enforcement.
According to the agency, the trail was closed at the parking area on Old Wetzel Road while crews assess damage and remove debris and other potential hazards. Officials expect the cleanup and closure to last several days following completion of the investigation.
The Stanley J. Hamlin Marsh Wildlife Management Area spans approximately 1,686 acres, with nearly 88 percent designated as wetland habitat. The area is managed by DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife for conservation and outdoor recreation activities including hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing, and photography.
The wildlife management area was previously known as Clay Marsh, Little Cicero Swamp, and Peat Swamp before being renamed in 1994 in honor of conservationist Stanley J. Hamlin, who played a key role in the state’s acquisition of the property.
DEC is asking anyone with information related to the fire to contact investigators at 315-426-7431.
