Background for Preliminary Habitat Assessment by Dr. Eric Kiviat

As evidenced below, the Comeau Trails Task Force has been conducting due diligence research regarding the feasibility of re-routing the western trail. Please note that this CTTF work project has not, at this point in time, been submitted to WLC for formal review, nor was it one of the potential 2010 CTTF work projects identified in CTTF's submission to WLC in April. (WLC letter reviewing CTTF 2010 projects is posted on the WLC website.)

Hudsonia is a non-profit, non-advocacy, environmental research institute that provides education, training and technical assistance in order to protect the natural heritage of Hudson Valley region. Dr. Eric Kiviat, co-founder and Executive Director of Hudsonia, is a Certified Wetland Scientist and Certified Wildlife Biologist. (The Town of Woodstock and Hudsonia are currently working to secure the final pieces of funding necessary for Hudsonia to conduct a landmark Habitat Mapping Project (HMP) of the entire Woodstock Township).

Dr. Kiviat's assistance was requested at Comeau by the Town Board and Comeau Trails Task Force. He conducted a preliminary habitat assessment specifically pertaining to the current and proposed "western trail" routes. On April 2, 2010 Dr. Kiviat conducted his field work with CTTF Chair David Corbett and CTTF member Jim Hanson present. Kevin Smith, President of WLC's Board, attended as an observer by invitation of the CTTF.

Dr. Kiviat's April 6, 2010 report can be read here.