Cabin fever and warm weather encourage people to get outside and enjoy nature for recreation, education and an environmental adventure. It’s good for your heart, soul, and mental well-being.
It’s important to consider the well-being of others during the new COVID-19 way of life. Rivers, trails, and parks provide plenty of room to stay socially distant and still enjoy yourself. Here are a few tips to increase that enjoyment:

• Know before you go: Check the status of the place you want to visit. If it is closed, don’t go. If it’s crowded, have a plan B. Visit this page for paddling and river level info.
• Stay close to home: This is no time to travel long distances to recreate. Most places are only open for day use.
• Plan: Prepare for facilities to be closed, pack lunch, and bring essentials like hand sanitizer and a face covering.
• Practice physical distancing: Adventure only with your immediate household. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth and give others space. If you are sick, stay home!
• Play it safe: Slow down and choose lower-rise activities to reduce your risk of injury. Search and rescue operations and health care resources are both strained.
• Leave no trace: Respect public lands and communities and take all your garbage back home with you.
• Be grateful for what we have: We are fortunate to have numerous and accessible waterways, ponds, lakes and trails to enjoy. Please respect our environment and do what you can to keep it clean and safe.

Source: American Canoe Association and Chemung River Friends in Elmira, N.Y.

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