ADK Talks Podcast Episode: Science & Stewardship
The Adirondack Council's Fight for the Park’s Future
What happens in the Adirondacks doesn’t always start in the Adirondacks—it can flow into our air, water, communities, and climate from coal-fired power plants far, far away from our lakes and forests.
In this powerful episode of ADK Talks, hosts Jane and Steve sit down with John Sheehan, Director of Communications for the Adirondack Council, to explore the science, policy, and passion driving environmental advocacy in the largest protected landscape east of the Mississippi.
We cover:
The origins and mission of the Adirondack Council
The threats to air and water quality—and what’s being done
How road salt is quietly degrading lakes, wells, and even washing machines
The scientific tools used to monitor Adirondack lakes
The Council’s support for SUNY ESF’s Timbuctoo Institute, connecting students from underrepresented communities to careers in environmental science
How you can take action to protect the incredible Adirondack Park
John also shares his favorite hidden gem in the park and reflects on decades of conservation wins—and the political battles still ahead.
Blue Mountain Lake
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Upcoming events in the Adirondack Park.
A winter exhibition rooted in New York State’s Champlain Valley.
A Feast Of Fruit And Flowers: Women Still Life Painters At The Hyde Collection.
Lake George’s annual Winter Carnival takes place every weekend in February 2026.
See Visions of Sudan Before the Civil War, a powerful photography exhibit by Denise Silfee.
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson take the stage in a heartfelt musical drama.
Check out next year’s models at SnoFest 2026 in Old Forge, the Adirondack’s premier snowmobile show.
Championship college ice hockey action at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid’s Olympic Center.
Celebrate winter in the Adirondacks at the Ticonderoga End of Winter Carnival & Fireworks.
Everyone’s Irish at Old Forge’s annual St. Patrick’s celebration.
Roll into St. Patrick’s season with Irish Road Bowling in Indian Lake.
Saranac Lake goes full shamrock mode for its annual St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Chestertown is going green (again) when the 14th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns.
Adirondack Brewery's premier beer festival features exclusively barrel-aged beer, cider, and wine.
Live Irish music, a downtown soup stroll, pub pop-ups, and family fun.
2026 Essex Chili Cook-Off brings the heat (and the heart) to Whallonsburg.
A virtual educational event, presented by the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC).
Championship D1 college ice hockey action at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid’s Olympic Center.
NYC comedian Alex Kumin performs live stand-up at The Mill in Westport, NY.
Syrup flows during weekend two of Thurman Maple Days
Winter Meltdown heats up Glens Falls with food trucks, bold flavors, and dishes that dare you to sweat.
Full moon magic in late March near Lake Placid.
Enjoy live local music, chili from 20+ restaurants, and support the Lake George Arts Project.
A virtual educational event, presented by the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation (ACLC).