Event Description: Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Trish Corcoran and Genesee Land Trust as Trish shares stories of the land and its first people. Trish is a leader of Rochester's Indigenous Peoples' Day and a board member for both Genesee Land Trust and Friends of Ganondagan. You’ll visit the White Pine Tree of Peace planted last year, learn how the Onondowaga (Seneca) Nation connects with and cares for nature, and discuss historical and current impacts on the land and people. Trish grew up exploring the land that’s now under our protection, and also lives nearby. We’re honored to have Trish share her wisdom and experience with on these two walks.
There will be two walks, one at 10 AM and a second at 11:30 AM. These walks are open to all ages and abilities. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.
More about Trish: Trish Corcoran is Tonawanda Onondowaga, Bear Clan. She teaches Indigenous and Environmental studies at the Harley School to all grade levels. The Pollinator Garden and Wild Wood are under her care and have gained over one hundred trees planted by students. Trish also serves on the Indigenous Advisory Council for the Climate Solutions Accelerator, the Seventh Generation Land Defenders, and the Indigenous Peoples’ Health Coalition. Trish works with Neighbors of Onondaga Nation on the Witness to Injustice blanket exercise. She is also a writer and director on “Remnants”, an immersive walking art installation that uncovers the history of the land. Most of all she is the proud mom of two, whose family loves to hike, canoe, and camp amongst all their relations.
Trail Description and Additional Information: The packed soil and grass trail at Deer Creek Woods East has recently been widened and smoothed, but could become muddy after rain. The loop is about half a mile, walking around the meadow and along the creek. Please dress for the weather (rain or shine), bring a bottle of water, and carpool if possible. There is not a bathroom on site. When you register, please let us know if you need assistance to support your participation. For more about the preserve and trail, visit:
Accessibility: For questions about accessibility, reach out to Inclusion Point of Contact, Kevin Farrell, at kfarrell@geneseelandtrust.org.
Parking: The parking lot for Deer Creek Woods East is located at 600 Lake Road in the Town of Ontario. If navigating through Google or Apple Maps, be sure to include ‘Town of Ontario’. The parking lot is made of crushed stone and can accommodate 8-10 vehicles. Please be careful entering and exiting the parking lot on to busy Lake Road. There are no direct public transit options at this time.
Restrooms: There are no restrooms at the preserve. The nearest public restrooms are 5 miles away along Route 104 (McDonalds, Tractor Supply, Bill Gray’s, etc.)
Pets: Dogs, other pets, emotional support, comfort, and companion animals are not allowed at Genesee Land Trust events. Although your pet may be friendly, everyone has different familiarity and experiences with animals. Thank you for being respectful to other attendees.
Service Animals: Service animals, which are dogs or miniature horses that are specifically trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities, are welcome. Service animals must always be under the control of the handler, housebroken, cleaned up after, and vaccinated in accordance with state laws.
Photo by Kathryn Elble