The Northeast
region of New York is dominated by the Adirondack Park, created by
the State of New York in 1892 for the purpose of conserving water
and timber resources. The park encompasses approximately 6 million
acres, half of which are owned by New York State and protected as
“forever wild.” The other half of the park is privately
owned. The Adirondack Park Agency closely regulates land use and
development to preserve the natural beauty and resources. The region
is sparsely populated and the economy is driven by tourism. Today
the region faces a number of challenges including poverty, an aging
population, limited broadband access, and a shortage of clinicians.