KEENE -- The serpentine artery flowing by the Cascade Lakes and connecting Keene and Lake Placid is one of the most picturesque in New York.

It can also be one of the most treacherous, especially with its micro climate of howling winds and often white-out conditions.

Keeping it open and the surface clear provides a challenge for the Department of Transportation, as well as the environment.

Starting in 2003, Clarkson University conducted a study to determine the environmental impact caused by winter road management -- primarily the use of salt -- on Route 73 in both the Cascade Lakes and Chapel Pond areas.

The report, released in 2006, recommended the continued monitoring of the Lower Cascade Lake, roadside revegetation and installation of educational signs.

An approximate $20,000 project was initiated to re-establish native species along a two-mile section of highway to provide a barrier to road spray, reduce erosion and improve aesthetics.

Salt-tolerant native species were planted, including tamarack, white and gray birches, red osier dogwood and dwarf sand cherry. Blue spruce were added to be a natural snow fence in a wind-swept area. Native grasses and flowers were incorporated to control erosion and visually enhance the area.

Ausable River Association volunteers worked with DOT personnel to help speed up the project and reduce costs.

Over the past decade, a noticeable decline could be seen in the white birches that line the road as it meanders through the glacially cut landscape.

This has been attributed to the Ice Storm of 1998, the short life span of the species and the utilization of salt to combat the ice.

DOT Regional Director Brian Rowback addressed an assemblage gathered Tuesday at the day-use area between the Cascade Lakes.

"For many of us who appreciate and love the Adirondacks, this is such a special place. This is one of the most beautiful scenic areas you will find anywhere.

"We have a lot of responsibilities, knowing the road is intruding on the area and having the effects of de-icing. The efforts will continue to help nature along."

State Sen. Betty Little (R-Queensbury) had praise for all involved.

"It's good to be here with the DOT workers who work so hard to keep this road open. It's a photographer's dream.