Editor Phil Brown reports that New York State is expected to buy the Essex Chain of Lakes this year — more than 19,000 acres — and added to the forever-wild Forest Preserve.

A staff report notes that the Adirondack Mountain Club is urging hikers to clean their boots and clothes so as not to unknowingly spread invasive plants.

Reporter Amanda Purcel reports that a plan that couples low-cost power and industrial land is being put together by the St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency to attract businesses to St. Lawrence County.