Lesser Wilderness State Forest
This 13,793 acre state forest is actually a group of 6 neighboring forests with similar features. The area is located in the core of Tug Hill, with its mostly poor soils and severe winter conditions. Low quality natural timber stands and large expanses of ecologically important wetland areas predominate the landscape. Most of this property was acquired by the state during the 1930’s and 1940’s, and included abandoned open farm fields and cut over woodlands. Since that time NYSDEC has planted many trees in the open fields and through the efforts of the Department’s professional foresters, conducted many carefully controlled timber harvests aimed at improving the health and vigor of the forest.