Barney
Pond
How big is it and who can use it?
The pond is 37.8 acres and 10-12 feet deep. Its use is restricted
to Diamond Sportsmen's Club members, and their guests who must
be accompanied by their host members.
Can motor boats and jet skis be used?
No. Non-motorized watercraft such as jon boats with electric motors,
canoes, and kayaks preserves the tranquility of the area for all
users.
Can one skate on the pond in winter?
Yes, but first the snow would have to be plowed to create an area
for skating. At present, the club does not maintain such a natural
skating area but, if member interest warrants it, it's possible.
Is there an area for sledding?
Yes, Bungee Hill -not far from parking and Deer Feeding Area.
Can one swim in the pond?
Swimming in Barney Pond is not advisable, but there are several
beautiful beaches just a few miles from the property. The McNeil
campgrounds on Blake Reservoir, approximately 4 miles from the
club entrance, include a lovely beach complete with playground
equipment, public restrooms, and lifeguards. Also, Higley State
Park in South Colton is approximately 5 miles from the club entrance.
What other bodies of water are located near the club's
property?
This region has many streams, ponds, lakes, man-made reservoirs,
and rivers. Three man-made reservoirs - Carry Falls, Blake, and
Stark - are in the club's backyard. Each has excellent launching
facilities and allows motorboats, jet skis, etc. For a complete
overview of all the bodies of water in this area, refer to the
St. Lawrence County Angler's Guide in the membership application
packet, or contact us.
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FISHING
What fish are native to the pond?
It is home to large mouth bass, bullhead, and crappie. A stocking
program for large mouth bass in 1993-1995 has been very successful,
and it will be repeated in the future if necessary. On July 4,
2000, a 20-inch, 4.5 pound bass was caught and released on Barney
Pond.
Is there trout on the property?
With over five miles of streams, trout is plentiful.
Is the Department of Environmental Conservation involved
in the management of the fish?
No.
If a member fishes only occasionally, what kind of
membership is required?
In order to do any fishing on the property, a full membership
is required.
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HUNTING
Is there a feeding program?
No, by law, deer feeding is not permitted.
What is the total number of hunting members now, and
the maximum number planned for the future?
We now have over 100 members. We expect a maximum of 150.
What is the success of deer hunters?
Each year, club members average 20-25 bucks, ranging up to 200
pounds.
What kind of hunting is allowed and when?
Members and their guests may hunt, in season only, for whitetail
deer, black bear, turkey, partridge, rabbits, ducks, and geese.
For a copy of New York State's Hunting Regulations, including
the dates of each season, contact us.
Does the DEC manage the herd of whitetail deer?
No.
Are there separate areas designated for 4-wheeling
and hiking during hunting season?
Not at this time.
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OTHER RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Do separate areas exist for cross-country skiing and
snow shoeing? for snowmobiling and 4-wheeling?
At this time, there are no designated areas for cross-country
skiing and snow shoeing. There are specific, groomed trails for
snowmobiling, but not for 4-wheeling.
Can I host a family gathering?
The club's pavilion area is ideal for hosting family reunions
for 4 or 40. Picnic tables are plentiful, the clubhouse is nearby,
there's a play area with swings and a basketball hoop for the
kids, and ample parking. Advance notice to other club members
requesting exclusive use of the area for the event is an appreciated
courtesy.
Besides fishing and hunting, what other recreational
opportunities are there?
Outdoor enthusiasts can ride ATVs, hike, play horseshoes or basketball,
go berry-picking or simply enjoy the symphony of nature's sounds
around a campfire during warm weather months. There is also a rifle range
with sand bags and bench. In winter, members and their guests
can ride snowmobile on more than 15 miles of groomed trails, and
the club is connected with a main St. Lawrence County Snowmobile
Association trail for access to anywhere in this region. Or, individuals
can cross-country ski and snow shoe. In addition, Diamond Sportsmen's
Club is located near two college towns, Potsdam and Canton, which
offer many activities, including restaurants, movie theaters,
shopping, etc. Antiquing is also a popular past time. For more
information about a specific activity, contact us.
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Diamond Sportsmen
Club
What is the nature of the club?
Diamond Sportsmen's Club was incorporated in July 2000 as a Section
402, not-for-profit organization under New York State law. The
club's by-laws, rules and regulations, and guest policies are
available to prospective members, on this Web site or contact
us.
Who are the current officers and board
members?
Elections were held at the bi-annual meeting held May 6, 2001,
at which time the following individuals were chosen: Richard Todd,
President; Bob Hart, Vice President; Roger Watters, Secretary; Bob
Hunt, Treasurer; Paul McKeever, Brad Paige, Alan Kingsley, and board members
at large.
How are members notified of meetings or other necessary
communications?
Notice of the bi-annual membership meetings, held in the fall
and spring of each year, is provided by first class mail. Newsletters
are issued by the president on an as-needed basis.
What is the influence and oversight of the Adirondack
Park Agency (APA)?
Since the club's property is located in the uppermost northwestern
corner of the Adirondack Park, the APA currently approves cabin
site locations and projects. The club has received two
permits that include approval for 142 building sites.
Who decides/manages the logging rights? How are timber
sales decided and profits distributed?
The membership decides questions of logging rights and timber
sales. Proceeds cannot be divided among individual members, as
the club is a not-for-profit under New York State law. Future
profits from logging will be used to enhance the club's property
or programs, and will be determined by the full membership.
May I visit the property unannounced, or do I need
an appointment?
Prospective members are encouraged to contact us for a guided
tour of the property to ensure an efficient and effective visit.
Tours are arranged free of charge and can be done with relatively
little notice.
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Directions
Diamond Sportsmen's Club is located
off State Highway 56 five miles south of South Colton, New York.
A detailed map is available; just contact us.
From the Albany area (about 3.5 hours)
take Route 87 north to exit 23 (Warrensburg). Follow signs for
North Creek, Indian Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, Long Lake, and Tupper
Lake. In Tupper Lake, take Route 3 west to the junction of Route
56 (Sevey Corners). The club entrance is approximately 13 miles
from this intersection, on the right.
From the Syracuse area (about 3 hours)
take Route 81 north to Exit 48 (Route 11) and follow the signs
for Canton. In Canton, take Route 68 east to Colton, and turn
right onto Route 56. Travel approximately 9 miles to the club
entrance on the left.
From the north - in Potsdam
take Route 56 South for approximately 19.5 miles. The club entrance
will be on the left.
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Club Property
How much did the property cost?
On August 23, 2000, Diamond Sportsmen's Club, Inc. signed a contract
with Lothair, Inc. for $1,360,000. We took immediate possession
of the property and have been paying for the land as memberships
are sold.
How is the money being handled?
New members send their capital contribution directly to Key Bank
in Canton, NY. Money is placed in an interest-bearing account
until the next scheduled payment is made.
Is the property enclosed by fence or gates?
The entrance to the property is gated, and keys are issued upon
payment of the membership capital contribution. Otherwise, the
property is posted, but not completely enclosed by a fence.
Who maintains roads and trails?
The membership.
What is access to the property like in the winter?
There are three plowed parking lots in front of the clubhouse.
Roads may be plowed by members or members nay use all-terrain
vehicles (ATV's), snowmobiles, cross country skis,
or snowshoes to move about the property. There are several miles
of groomed snowmobile trails.
Are electrical and telephone services available on
the property?
The clubhouse is equipped
with electricity and a phone.
What is the clubhouse like and who can use it?
Members constructed the clubhouse in 2004-2005. At approximately
1,200 square feet, it includes an inside toilet, propane heater,
gas stove and tables. It is a great gathering
place, near the playground and pavilion areas.
Are bathroom facilities available?
There is a public toilet facilities are located in the clubhouse. Otherwise,
individuals construct their outhouse on a designated site.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, if they are on a leash at all times.
Is there peace and solitude to be found at all times
of the year?
Yes! With over 3,000 acres of club-owned property adjacent to
another 3,000 acres of state/public use land, there is ample space
for all activities - including the solitary peace and quiet of
the wilderness.
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Sites and Camps
What is required to be eligible for a building site?
Two capital contribution certificates are required for each
building site. This can be one member who has made two or
more capital contributions, or two or more individual members who
have made one capital contribution each.
Are there building sites available on the pond?
No, to preserve the pristine nature of the area, there are no
sites on Barney Pond.
Are there restrictions on the size and type of camps?
Full members only may construct permanent camps up to 1000 square
feet, including second stories, porches and decks. Camp foundations
must be piers. Construction materials should complement the natural
surroundings. There are sites remaining on the Power
Project Road where full utilities are available. Five capital contributions are
required for those sites.
What is the minimum/maximum number of members per camp?
The club does not get involved in occupancy rates for its members'
private camps.
What are the dimensions of a site?
Site size varies depending on location. There is no specific size,
but designation of sites has been done to maximize privacy.
How are sites assigned?
Sites are visited during the guided tour, and are issued to new
members on a first come, first served basis.
Can one reserve a site now and build later?
Yes.
Are wells, septic systems, and generators allowed?
At this time, only generators are allowed. Members may construct
outhouses or use composting toilets.
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MEMBERSHIP
What are the benefits of membership in Diamond Sportsmen's
Club?
Unlike many other clubs on leased land, our members do not face
the prospect of losing their camps or the land on which their
club has operated. And our lifetime transferable membership makes
it possible to pass on the legacy of the club to future generations.
How does the membership process work?
New members make their one-time membership capital contribution
directly to Key Bank in Canton, NY. The form is available in the
free, no obligation membership packet. When payment is received,
the bank notifies the club's membership representative who prepares
the membership certificate for the president and secretary's signatures,
the dues invoice, and a new member packet that includes keys to
the property. When dues are paid, a membership card(s) is issued.
Does membership include one's family?
Yes. When dues are paid, each member is asked to list the names
of immediate family members who also need to receive a membership
card. Immediate family members include spouse or significant other
and children under 18 or who are in college or the military. Or,
a parent over 62 may receive a membership card in lieu of a spouse
and children.
What is the guest policy?
See "guest policy."
Can a group purchase a membership?
No, each membership must be in the name of an individual.
In addition to the one-time capital contribution of
$5,500 to become a member-owner, are other costs are involved?
Annual dues are $340 for membership. A camp
tax is assessed on all camps to help the club pay the property
taxes on those structures.
Can one make a down payment, pay annual dues, and have
access to hunting, fishing, and camping before the balance is
paid?
No, it is necessary to make the full capital contribution of $5,500
in order to become a member and enjoy the rights and privileges
associated with it. Dues must be paid in order to receive a membership
card, which should be carried by members and their families at
all time.
Is financing available?
Prospective members are encouraged to contact their local bank
for a personal loan. Financing through the club is not available
at this time, although payment of the membership contribution,
dues, and camp tax may be done with a MasterCard or Visa.
Is there a directory of members, and is it available
to peruse?
The directory of members is updated each fall after dues have
been paid. It is only distributed to current members.
How many members are there presently? How many total
are expected? Desired?
There are now over 100 members, with 150
being the expected total based on the number of multiple memberships
purchased.
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