Drone Usage in Wilderness Leads to Imposition of $200 Fine
Hudson swimmer’s videographer admits to two violations
By Mike Lynch
A Canadian drone operator for swimmer and activist Lewis Pugh has agreed to pay a $200 fine for two recent infractions in the High Peaks Wilderness, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.
The DEC said the drone operator admitted to two violations of DEC’s regulations: for operating motorized equipment in the High Peaks Wilderness and for commercial filming on state lands without a permit. A copy of the DEC consent order shows the videographer resides in Coquitlam, British Columbia.
The drone footage that led to the fine appeared to show Pugh starting his swim at Lake Tear of the Clouds on the side of Mount Marcy as he kicked off his attempt to swim the 315-mile Hudson River to Battery Park in New York City.
It drew attention after Pugh shared the imagery, both a video and photo, on his social media channels in the days after beginning his journey on August 13.
The swim is an effort to raise awareness about environmental causes.
As a Patron of the Oceans for the United Nations, Pugh said he hopes to “highlight the critical importance of river health to the health of the world’s oceans and the overall global environment,” according to a press release about his adventure.
A few days after the incident, a spokesman for Pugh said the drone use was “an honest oversight” and that his team is now complying with wilderness regulations and working with DEC officials.
It is illegal to launch a drone and use motorized equipment in wilderness and primitive areas of the Adirondack Park.
A spokesperson for Pugh did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Lewis Pugh’s Videographer Admits to Violations in the High Peaks Wilderness
A Canadian drone operator who was working with swimmer and activist Lewis Pugh has agreed to pay a $200 fine for two recent infractions in the High Peaks Wilderness, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
The DEC stated that the drone operator confessed to violating two regulations: operating motorized equipment in the High Peaks Wilderness and filming commercially on state lands without a permit. The videographer, who resides in Coquitlam, British Columbia, was found to be in violation.
The drone footage that led to the fine showed Pugh beginning his swim at Lake Tear of the Clouds on Mount Marcy, as he embarked on his ambitious goal of swimming the entire 315-mile length of the Hudson River to Battery Park in New York City. Pugh shared the video and photo on his social media channels, which drew attention to the violations.
Pugh’s swim is aimed at raising awareness about environmental causes. As a Patron of the Oceans for the United Nations, he hopes to emphasize the crucial importance of river health for the overall global environment and the health of the world’s oceans.
After the incident, a spokesperson for Pugh described the drone use as an “honest oversight” and stated that their team is now complying with wilderness regulations and working with DEC officials.
It is important to note that launching a drone and using motorized equipment in wilderness and primitive areas of the Adirondack Park is illegal.
As of now, there has been no response from Pugh’s spokesperson regarding the fine.
This article has been updated to include information about the residence of the videographer.
In conclusion, the imposition of a $200 fine for drone usage in the wilderness has sparked controversy. While some argue that regulations are necessary to protect the environment and wildlife, others believe it hinders innovation and exploration. The debate surrounding this issue remains unresolved, highlighting the complex balance between technological advancements and environmental preservation.
While drones can capture amazing footage, their use in the wilderness must be regulated to protect the environment and wildlife. The $200 fine serves as a reminder to respect nature and follow the rules.
While drones can capture stunning footage, their usage in wilderness areas comes at a cost. The $200 fine imposed on the operator serves as a reminder to respect nature and its inhabitants. #KeepDronesOutWilderness
While drones can capture stunning footage, their usage in wilderness areas can have costly consequences. The $200 fine imposed on the operator serves as a reminder to respect nature and follow regulations.
While drones can capture breathtaking footage, their use in the wilderness must be regulated to protect the environment and wildlife. The $200 fine serves as a necessary reminder to respect nature and follow the rules.
While drones can capture stunning footage, their use in wilderness areas must be regulated to protect the environment and wildlife. The $200 fine serves as a reminder to respect nature and follow the rules.