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Environment DEC
2006 Archive
December 2006
- DEC Issues Emergency Regulations to Halt Spread of the Fish Pathogen VHS - Along with a federal order restricting interstate transport of certain species of live fish, DEC's emergency regulations address intrastate transport.
- Governor Announces $8 Million for Adirondack Water Quality and Infrastructure Projects - The projects will help reduce the amount of phosphorus and other contaminants that enter Adirondack lakes and rivers.
- DEC Announces Draft Policy to Cultivate Environmental Leaders - The new policy encourages businesses to perform beyond minimum compliance levels.
- DEC Announces Conference on Climate Change in the Hudson Valley - Speakers at the event will address the impacts of climate change on water supplies, agriculture, sewage treatment facilities, transportation, and the river shoreline.
- DEC Announces New Ski Chairlift and Improvements at Belleayre Mountain - The new lift will speed skiers to the top in record time and lodge improvements will reduce overcrowding.
- DEC Announces Groundbreaking for the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center - The Discovery Center will enhance environmental education in the Capital Region.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) - These particular LIP grants are designed to assist in grassland protection and management.
- DEC Requests Applications for a Second Round of Habitat/Access Grants - This round of funding will focus on projects that target improvement of habitat and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- DEC to Rehabilitate Freeman's Bridge Boat Launch - The project will enhance access to the Mohawk River at the popular launching location.
- Governor Announces 575-Acre Acquisition for Sterling Forest - The $13.5 million purchase protects critical natural resources in the NY/NJ highlands.
- Governor Signs Legislation to Reduce Harmful Emissions from Heavy-duty Diesel Vehicles - The new law requires use of ultra low sulfur fuel and retrofitting of vehicle exhaust systems.
- Governor Announces 2006 State Open Space Conservation Plan - The final plan identifies priority conservation projects statewide.
- Late Deer and Bear Seasons Extend Hunting Opportunities - Hunting seasons for these popular big game specicies will extend well into December for bow and muzzleloader hunters.
- DEC Announces $200,000 to Assist with Tree Restoration in Western NY - The funding is being made available to local governments so they can implement long-term tree-cover restoration efforts in areas that suffered significant tree damage from the freak October snowstorm in Western New York.
- Read "Brownfields: New Life, New Uses," in December's Conservationist Magazine - See how communities are transforming former industrial wastelands into remarkable community assets.
- DEC Commissioner Reminds Hunters to Follow Safe Hunting Guidelines - Following a few simple safety rules will help ensure that hunters enjoy safe hunting seasons.
- DEC Issues Draft Unit Management Plan for Lake George Wild Forest - A public meeting on the plan is scheduled for December 13 in Queensbury, Warren County.
- Governor Designates Vischer Ferry Bird Conservation Area (BCA) - The 740-acre site along the Erie Canal in Saratoga County will help protect birds and critical habitats, fulfilling the governor's 2005 pledge to create 20 new BCAs in two years.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Compost and Buy Recycled This Holiday Season - Here are some great ways to reduce, reuse and recycle your way through the holidays that will save energy, decrease waste and pollution, and protect the environment.
- New Hazardous Spill Reporting Requirement - Under amended spill notification laws, DEC will respond quickly with information for the public and the media about certain kinds of hazardous chemical spills.
November 2006
- Governor and NYC Parks Commissioner Cut Ribbon for Hudson River Park's Pier 84 - The ceremony marked the reopening of the pier, which includes a boathouse, education center, children's water play area, a community garden and a large public plaza and fountain.
- DEC Offers Landowners in Western New York Advice About Assessing Tree Damage - Although the October snowstorm in western New York damaged many trees, property owners should avoid downed power lines and stay clear of broken limbs and hanging branches when assessing the condition of their trees.
- State Environmental Board Approves Superfund/Brownfield Regulations - The regulations will implement comprehensive reforms for the state's Superfund, Environmental Restoration and Brownfield Cleanup programs.
- DEC Update on Wild Bird Sampling for Bird Flu - Samples collected from mallards in Niagara County indicate low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI); finding poses no risk to human health.
- Experimental Trapping Season Announced - A three-year experimental research trapping season for fisher and bobcat was implemented beginning November 1, 2006 through special permits issued to trappers.
- Motorists Advised to Be Alert for Deer and Moose On and Near Roadways - Because of the breeding season for deer and moose, fall is the peak time for collisions with motor vehicles, and most incidents occur in November.
- Camp Leasing Preserved on Former Champion Lands in Franklin County - New York State will allow Heartwood Forestland Fund III, LLC to continue to lease 220 camps, and Heartwood will transfer more than 2,600 acres of wildlife habitat to the state as part of the agreement.
- $4 Million Announced for Jamesport State Park and Preserve Plan - The shorefront park and preserve encompasses both environmentally significant natural resources as well as areas for traditional active recreation, such as hiking, nature walks and bird watching.
- More Than $58.7 Million in EPF Grants Awarded for Projects Throughout State - The grants will assist local communities in protecting farmland and open space and with historic preservation and waterfront revitalization.
- Agreement Reached with Honeywell to Clean Up Onondaga Lake - A multi-million-dollar plan calls for dredging 2.65 million cubic yards of sediment to remove hazardous contamination from the lake.
- More than $9 Million Earmarked for Brownfield Cleanup in Poughkeepsie - Funding will support redevelopment of the city's waterfront for the benefit of both recreational and commercial users.
- DEC Issues Draft Unit Management Plan for Stewart State Forest - The UMP is available for public review online and at DEC's offices in Albany and New Paltz; comments will be accepted until Friday, November 10, 2006.
- More than $220,000 Announced for Environmental Justice Projects - Ten projects will assess and address the exposure of specific communities to harmful environmental effects and multiple risks.
- Stony Kill Farm EEC Hosts Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Day - In recognition of Disabilities Awareness Month, Stony Kill Farm offered a day of activities designed to accommodate everyone, including those with disabilities.
- Conservationist Article Discusses the Method of Still-Hunting for Deer - In addition to fine articles such as the one excerpted here, special pricing and a bonus gift are available to those who subscribe online to Conservationist magazine.
- Suit Brought Against Upstate Power Plant for Polluting Air - State suing Rochester Gas and Electric Company for excessive emissions at coal plant in Monroe County.
- DEC Investigates Death of Lake Ontario Water Birds - The public is advised to use caution when handling fish and game after numerous dead gulls, grebes and loons were discovered along the shores of eastern Lake Ontario.
- Adirondack Snowmobile Plan Released - The plan charts the future use of snowmobiles in the Adirondack Park while protecting the environment.
October 2006
September 2006
- Governor Signs Legislation Creating New York Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Council - Three million has been appropriated to the new council to coordinate state programs and activities to protect and restore coastal resources.
- Governor Announces Nearly $6 Million to Improve Water Quality - This funding will help to reduce the amount of pollution in waterways and restore critical aquatic habitats throughout New York State.
- EPF Grants Announced for Numerous Counties in New York State - The grants, totalling nearly $10 million, are for open space and historic preservation, recreation, and waterfront revitalization projects in 25 counties.
- 2006-2007 Sporting Licenses and Deer Management Permits Available - Hunting, fishing and trapping licenses and deer management permits (DMP) may be purchased now at any of DEC's license sales outlets or via internet, mail or phone order.
- DEC Enforcing Bear-Resistant Canister Regulation - Forest Rangers and Environmental Conservation Officers have been patrolling the eastern High Peaks Wilderness to ensure that overnight campers are using bear-resistant canisters as required to store food, toiletries and garbage during the mandated period from April 1 until November 30 each year.
- October's Conservationist Magazine Highlights Open Space Conservation Plan - In keeping with the informative and interesting articles found in the Conservationist, "A Land for the Future." details Governor Pataki's decade-long quest to preserve New York State's diverse wildlife habitats, working farms and forests and recreational lands.
- Anglers Advised Not to Move Fish Between Water Bodies - Non-native fish species can harm aquatic ecosystems by preying on fish already present, out-competing native species for food, spreading diseases and changing the amount, size and type of microscopic organisms in the water.
- DEC Reopens Oyster Pond Boat Ramp - In addition to expanding the launch ramp at Oyster Pond by approximately 90 feet, DEC also opened a new boat launch facility along the Mattituck Creek, which includes parking for approximately 20 vehicles with trailers.
- Final Model Rule Announced to Help States Implement RGGI - New York State will propose draft regulations to enable the state's implementation of our nation's first cap-and-trade program for addressing climate change.
- Grants Available for Water Quality Improvement Projects - Applications will be accepted until October 20, 2006 for funding that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is making available to municipalities, soil and water conservation districts and not-for-profit corporations throughout the state.
- DEC Announces Consent Order with Lewis County Farm for Manure Spill - The agreement includes more than $2 million in penalties, compensation for damages to natural resources and environmental benefit projects.
- Seventh Annual Hudson River Valley Ramble Scheduled - From the Capital Region to New York City, the ramble will include more than 160 guided walks, hikes, paddling and biking excursions and cultural events.
- Addendum to Draft UMP for Moose River Plains Wild Forest - As a result of public comment, a change to the March 2006 draft UMP regarding snowmobile trails in the Moose River Plains Wild Forest has been proposed, and the public comment period has been extended as well.
- Commissioner Sheehan Speaks on Climate Change at Chautauqua Institution - Rounding out a week of high-profile lecturers at this prestigious facility, Commissioner Sheehan talked about DEC's participation in regional efforts to manage global climate change.
- Draft Unit Management Plan Issued for White Hill Wild Forest - The public is encouraged to review the proposed plan and to share their comments at a public meeting on September 21, or send written comments to DEC before October 6, 2006.
- Klein, Mazurkiewicz and Maloney Named ECOs of 2005 - These ECOs have done an exemplary job of enforcing the environmental laws and regulations of New York State, detecting and investigating suspected violations and educating the public, even when not on duty.
- A Cornucopia of Family Fun Awaits at DEC Education Centers and Other Facilities - A plentiful harvest of festivals and special outdoor events are ripe for the picking.
August 2006
- More than $10 Million in Grants Awarded for Brownfield Projects Across the State - More than $9 million will fund two cleanup projects at sites in Buffalo and Tonawanda, while more than $1 million will fund seven smaller projects scattered throughout the state.
- Investigation of Lake Ontario Shore Bird and Fish Deaths Continues - Type E botulism has been found in some gulls and terns, so the public is advised to take care when handling fish and game.
- Innovative Energy Programs to be Located at Saratoga Technology and Energy Park - A new alternative fuel research lab and a $10 million program for developing plug-in hybrids will reduce dependence on imported energy.
- More Than $1.6 Million Announced for Parks, Waterfront Revitalization and Preservation Projects in Central New York - Eleven EPF grants were awarded, including $135,000 for the Mohawk River Trail in Rome and $110,000 for Wright's Landing Marina in Oswego.
- Governor Announces Opening of Scaroon Manor Day Use Area - Scaroon is the first new recreational facility constructed in the Adirondack Forest Preserve since 1977.
- The Return to Glory of Onondaga Lake - The rebirth of Onondaga Lake after centuries of pollution is featured in the August issue of "Conservationist" magazine.
- DEC Announces Record State Natural Gas Production in 2005 - The development of the Trenton-Black River Formation leads production.
- DEC Opens New Long Island Sound Boat Launch and Preserves Important Tidal Wetlands - A temporary launch in Mattituck opened July 1 with more improvements to follow. Environmentally sensitive tidal wetlands in Oakdale, Town of Islip, Nassau County, were also preserved.
- Erie Canal Greenway Grant Program Announced - A total of $6 million in competitive grants is available for municipalities and not-for-profit organizations along the New York State Canal System.
- DEC Announces Finalized Bay Scallop and Oyster Regulations - The regulations were adopted as conservation measures to protect and restore these commercially important shellfish species.
- DEC Helps Flood Recovery Effort - DEC has authorized permits to help expedite flood repairs along with a host of other measures in the state's response to the devastating floods that wreaked havoc in New York at the end of June.
- Ground Broken for the First Ethanol Refueling Pump on the Thruway - The fueling station will be one of the first in New York to provide E85 fuel to the public as part of the governor's energy independence plan for New York.
- DEC Acquires Chautauqua Lake Waterfront Property - More than 2,000 feet of undeveloped lake frontage will be protected.
- Comment Period Continues on Revised Superfund/Brownfield Regulations - Because DEC has reissued revised regulations for the State Superfund Program, the Environmental Restoration Program and the Brownfield Cleanup Program, a second public comment period is scheduled this month.
- DEC Rangers, Other Staff and Volunteers, Dispatched to Southern California - The wildland firefighting crew leaves for Los Padres National Forest to help control wildfires.
- Ground Broken on Tribeca Segment of Hudson River Park - The Tribeca segment will include 200,000 square feet of new parkland, 440 new trees and a new playground area.
- Come Celebrate Smokey Bear's 62nd Birthday at Mount Loretto - Don't miss the birthday bash for our nation's most famous fire-prevention celebrity on Saturday,August 6, 2006 at DEC's Mount Loretto Unique Area on Staten Island.
- State Agencies Announce Effort to Restore a Rare Plant in Stewart State Forest - The planting of 400 purple milkweed plants will enhance the preservation of this rare species.
- DEC Protects Bat Hibernaculum in the Adirondacks - This is the first habitat protection project funded under the state's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP).
- Report Finds PCB Damage to Navigation in Champlain Canal - The public is urged to comment on the draft report until August 31, 2006.
July 2006
- DEC Wants ExxonMobil to Clean Up Petroleum Contamination - The New York State Attorney General's office has agreed to initiate legal action to ensure that the company fulfills its obligation to clean up petroleum contamination caused by a number of oil spills and illegal discharges in the Greenpoint, Brooklyn community.
- Governor Announces Purchase of Acreage in Columbia County - The acquisition will improve public access to Harvey Mountain State Forest and expand recreational opportunities at the former homestead of poet Edna St. Vincent Millay.
- DEC Announces Recipients for Invasive Species Eradication Grants - Non-native species can cause harm to the environment, and these grants will be used to help eradicate non-native aquatic species across New York State.
- DEC Issues Draft UMPs for Ausable Point Campground and Zoar Valley - Public meetings will be held on Monday, July 10 for Ausable Point and on Tuesday, July 11 in Cheektowaga and Thursday, July 13 in Gowanda for Zoar Valley.
- New Feature Debuts in August Conservationist - In the comfort and safety of your home, read "Ranger to the Rescue" and learn about how rangers have found and saved the lives of people lost in some of New York State's wildest and most isolated locations.
- State's Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy Approved - This approval indicates that DEC and its partners have developed an acceptable plan for conserving wildlife and preventing additional species from being added to the federal endangered species list.
- Residents and Visitors Encouraged to Enjoy State's Fantastic Bass Fishing - Smallmouth and largemouth bass-the largest members of the sunfish family-are the most popular sportfish of New York State anglers, and catching them generally requires a fair amount of effort and skill.
- State Using $12 Million Settlement to Restore Lake Ontario and Its Tributaries - New York State has reached a settlement in the state's natural resource damage (NRD) claim for Lake Ontario and its tributaries with Occidental Chemical Corporation which has agreed to pay the state $12 million.
- Virus Confirmed in Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Fish - Viral hemorrhagic septicemia, often associated with trout and salmon, recently was discovered in several other fish species such as round gobies and muskellunge.
- DEC Announces $450,000 in Open Space Grants - Governor Pataki has helped to make New York's EPF a strong and dependable source of funds for the state's many environmental needs, including open space preservation, farmland protection, municipal parks, intelligent land-use planning, state land stewardship and continuation of the Conservation Partnership Program.
- New York State Air Quality Health Advisories - When meteorologists from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation predict that levels of pollution are expected to exceed an air quality index value of 100, they and the Department of Health issue advisories so that the public can take whatever precautions they deem necessary.
- Oil and Gas Lease Sale in Central New York - New York State will lease oil and gas development rights on 19,250 acres of land in seven counties while fully protecting the environment and our natural resources.
- Marine Crustacean Regulations Finalized - Changes are necessary in order for New York to comply with the requirements of interstate fishery management plans adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
- Civic Leader Appointed Chair of Niagara River Greenway Commission - Robert J. Kresse, an attorney with Hiscock and Barclay, LLP, will lead the effort to promote the waterfront between downtown Buffalo and Niagara County.
June 2006
- Governor Proposes Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Initiatives - Governor Pataki recently proposed a broad legislative package that protects important fish and wildlife habitat, increases outdoor recreational opportunities and more.
- DEC Receives Theodore Roosevelt Ethics Award - In recognition of outstanding commitment to ethics in state government, the New York State Ethics Commission recently presented the 6th annual Theodore Roosevelt Ethics Award to DEC.
- Two New Sections Debut in the Conservationist - The new sections, Outdoor Discovery and Empire State Adventures, will appear as regular features in New York's premier conservation magazine.
- DEC Increases Assistance for Dam Safety Projects - The maximum allowable state assistance for such projects has been more than tripled.
- DEC Announces Nearly $2 Million for Brownfield Projects - Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act funding will support seven projects in communities across New York State.
- DEC Announces Environmental Justice Grants - Funding is available to help underserved and minority communities address and assess environmental harms and risks.
- Changes to Freshwater Fishing Regulations Announced - After a two-year review process, changes to freshwater fishing regulations for the 2006-2008 seasons were recently finalized.
- Prevent Encounters with Black Bears and Avoid Conflicts with Coyotes - Though fascinating, these wild animals can cause problems and pose dangers to homeowners, hikers and campers which a few simple precautions can avoid.
- Deadline Nears for Comment on Proposed Bay Scallop and Oyster Regulation Changes - The deadline for public comment on the draft regulations is June 5, 2006.
- Wetlands Maps for Putnam and Dutchess Counties Amended - A total of 5,450 acres of additional freshwater wetlands have been added.
- Governor Announces Major Initiative to Reduce Mercury Emissions - His proposal would protect public health and the environment by eventually cutting mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants by 90 percent.
- Governor Announces Nearly $6 Million for Ethanol Plant in Western NY - The assistance will support funding of an $87 million state-of-the-art facility which will help reduce dependence on imported energy and create new jobs.
- DEC Announces Revisions to 2006 Marine Recreational Fishing Regulations - The changes, which were effective immediately and supersede 2005 regulations, bring New York State into compliance with federal and neighboring states' requirements relating to three marine species.
- Governor Announces $15.2 Million to Protect 5,159 Acres of Farmland - Grants have been awarded to 19 farms in 13 counties.
- DEC Hosts National Project WET Conference - The big Water Education for Teachers gathering was held recently at Lake George.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Third Annual Environmental Excellence Awards - The awards recognize achievements in environmental sustainability, innovation and partnership. Applications are due by June 16, 2006.
- DEC Urges New Yorkers to Leave Fawns and Other Young Wildlife Undisturbed - Spring is the peak season for wildlife to give birth and for people to encounter baby animals of all kinds.
- DEC Announces Tentative 2006-2007 Waterfowl Hunting Seasons - This early announcement will allow hunters to plan sooner for their trips afield.
- N.G. Kaul Memorial Scholarship and Merit Award Winners Announced - The scholarship fund to memorialize the former director of DEC's Division of Water was just announced in January of 2006. The winners named are its first recipients.
May 2006
- State Awards Largest Ever Brownfield Grant to New York City - A nearly $18 million grant from New York State is part of an even larger grant-$36 million- to clean up and redevelop the Bush Terminal Piers in Brooklyn.
- Fire Breakout Emphasizes DEC and National Weather Service Warnings - A fire that occurred in the state's Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve demonstrated the importance of heeding warnings about the danger of fires due to extremely dry conditions.
- Pesticide Cleanup in Western New York Part of DEC's CleanSweep Program - DEC's annual CleanSweep event allowed professional applicators in five counties to drop off unwanted pesticides, plastic pesticide containers and metal drums for proper disposal and recycling at a nominal fee, or, in the case of farmers, for free.
- Public Input Sought on Proposed Hunting Regulation Changes for Southern Zone - The public is encouraged to submit comments by June 5, 2006 on proposed changes to regulations for deer and bear hunting in the Southern Zone for the 2006-2007 season.
- Members of Timber Theft Ring Indicted - Folowing an investigation of more than two years, six people were charged with 125 felonies, including scheming to defraud, grand larceny, possession of forged instruments, falsifying business records and forgery.
- 2005 Black Bear Harvest Figures Available - Record takes were reported for the Allegany and Catskill bear ranges, and there was a slight increase overall from 2004's numbers.
- More than 500 Acres Preserved along Battenkill - This acquisition will protect a historic trout stream as well as important wetlands in Washington County.
- More than Three Dozen Communities Receive Urban Forestry Grants in Celebration of Arbor Day - Of the total of 45 awards, 28 will support activities related to tree planting, and 17 awards will help to fund activities that protect and foster urban forestry.
- Spring 2006 Turkey Hunting - DEC biologists expect a good harvest because of weather conditions that were favorable to turkey production and survival, but hunter safety is of foremost concern.
- Tour de Sol and Green Car Show Coming Up Soon - Last year, more than 40 exhibitors and 60 entrants participated, including students who may become the automotive engineers and inventors of the future.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants - These grants provide funding to rural fire departments to enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities through the purchase of fire suppression equipment.
April 2006
- Win a Great Getaway in the "I Love the Conservationist Sweepstakes!" - Enter by July 31, 2006 to win one of the many travel prizes and outdoor adventures that will be awarded in this exciting contest.
- DEC to Build Environmental Education Center at Reinstein Woods - Designed as a green building, the project will demonstrate environmentally-friendly construction techniques.
- DEC Outreach Program Assists Schools in Identifying and Removing Mercury - The pollution prevention program teaches schools how to better protect students.
- DEC Issues Draft Unit Management Plan for Moose River Plains Wild Forest - Public comment will be accepted until April 28, 2006.
- DEC Announces Proposed Marine Crustacean Regulation Changes - The public is encouraged to comment on the draft regulations until May 8, 2006. A public meeting is scheduled for April 17, 2006.
- DEC Proposes Amendment to Willowemoc Wild Forest UMP - A public meeting is scheduled for April 6, 2006 in Livingston Manor.
- State Environmental Board Approves New Regulations on Used Oil, Elemental Mercury and Dental Amalgam - The new regulations will protect the public from exposure to mercury and petroleum contamination.
- RGGI States Announce Release of Draft Model Rule for Regional Carbon Cap - A 60-day public comment period and schedule of public meetings were also announced.
- State Accepting Applications for Environmental Grants - A series of statewide public meetings designed to explain application procedures in a workshop setting have been running since March 27 and will continue until April 11.
- New York State Trout Fishing Season Opens April 1 - Anglers can look forward to a successful season of fishing New York's waters.
- Celebrate Earth Day, Saturday, April 22 - Earth Day was established more than 30 years ago, and environmental awareness and activism has been growing ever since.
- DEC Announces Marine Fishing Regulation Changes - The changes, adopted after public review, affect many popular recreational and commercial fish species.
- Governor Announces $2 Million in EPF Grants to Improve Hudson River Water Quality - Six communities will receive funding for wastewater treatment projects as part of the continuing effort to make the Hudson River swimmable.
- DEC Delivers Lean-to to the Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks - The traditional Adirondack example of this type of structure will be featured in the museum's Wild Center Great Hall starting July 4, 2006.
- DEC Seeks Hunter Input on Fall 2006 Waterfowl Seasons - Task forces have been established to help set season dates in the western, southeastern and northeastern zones.
- W. Branch Ausable-DEC Seeks Anglers' Help - Volunteers will maintain a record of their fishing trip and catch information in a fishing diary provided by the DEC.
- DEC Provides Information on Spring Caterpillar Pests - Advice on how to avoid and control these destructive defoliators is readily available from DEC and Cornell Cooperative Extension.
- Governor Announces Preservation of Nearly Two Miles of Hudson River Shoreline - The collaborative effort in Greene and Columbia counties will protect natural areas in four different places on both sides of the river.
- Governor Announces Preservation of 1,800 Acres of Adirondack Forest - The agreement will add 1,000 acres to the forest preserve, protect 800 acres through easements, and expand historic canal routes in Hamilton and St. Lawrence counties.
March 2006
- DEC Announces New Deputy Commissioners - Lynette M. Stark has been named Executive Deputy Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Ruth A. Moore has been named Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources and Water Quality.
- Conservationist Sweepstakes - Enter to win one of the nearly 200 wonderful prizes that will be awarded in the "I Love the Conservationist" Sweepstakes.
- More than $425,000 Earmarked for Brownfield Projects in Oneida County - Four grants have been awarded for the investigation and cleanup of contaminated sites in the City of Rome.
- DEC to Prepare Management Plan for Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center - At two public meetings, DEC staff will provide a brief overview of the unit management planning process, give information about Stony Kill and facilitate discussion about what issues and ideas ought to be addressed in the draft plan.
- Fisheries Meetings Scheduled - Public meetings in Niagara, Monroe and Oswego counties will discuss Lake Ontario fisheries, which are very popular among anglers and extremely valuable to local state economies.
- Applications Available for DEC Summer Environmental Camps - Families are encouraged to consider enrolling their children aged 12-17 for a week's stay at one of four residential camps to help them become more aware of the environment and to stimulate their desire to conserve our natural resources.
- 2005 Deer Harvest Down as Expected but Hunting Safety Up - It was expected that the number of deer taken would decline because fewer deer management permits were issued to enable the state's deer population to increase and become more stable.
- DEC to Prepare UMP on 46-Corners State Forest Area - A meeting will be held on Thursday, March 16, 2006 to provide the public with an opportunity to meet with planning staff and offer comments regarding future management of the area.
- DEC Website Breaks Visitation Record - Users find that as a communications tool, DEC's website provides the most comprehensive and current information about New York State's natural resources, environmental quality and recreational opportunities.
- Caution on Ice Urged - All winter recreationists should be especially careful of venturing out onto icy surfaces because ice on many of New York State's waters is not as thick or as strong as it normally would be at this time of the year.
- Draft UMPs for Virgil Mountain and Tri-County Uplands - The public is encouraged to comment on these draft unit management plans which will affect five state forests encompassing more than 10,000 acres in Cortland, Tompkins and Tioga counties.
- Leaving Young Wildlife in the Wild...Where They Belong - Sure those little fuzzy, furry and feathered animals and birds are cute and look pretty vulnerable, but you'll do more harm than good by removing them from their natural habitat in a misguided attempt to help.
- More than $1.5 Million Earmarked for Brownfields Redevelopment Across State - Environmental Restoration Program grants will fund investigation and redevelopment of seven contaminated sites across New York State.
- All Electric Hookups at Ausable Point Campground Terminated - DEC has determined that these electrical hookups no longer comply with current electric codes and has terminated them at all 43 sites to ensure the safety of visitors to the campground.
- Governor Announces New Initiative for Hybrid Vehicles - The "Clean Pass-HOV" initiative will allow energy-efficient vehicles to access Long Island HOV lanes, help reduce reliance on foreign oil and improve the environment.
- Sterman Named Environmental Facilities President - Prior to his new appointment, David Sterman served as EFC Executive Vice President, DEC's Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Quality and Pollution Prevention and as Executive Director of the Joint Legislative Commission on Toxic Substances and Hazardous Waste.
February 2006
- Environmental Initiatives in Executive Budget Include Record EPF Funding - The proposed funding will support several important environmental, recreational and economic initiatives, as well as increasing EPF funding by 20 percent.
- Governor Unveils Plan to Cut Dependence on Imported Energy - The initiatives will boost production of renewable fuels, promote use of energy-efficient vehicles, position New York as world leader in renewable energy research, create jobs and provide relief from high heating bills.
- Governor Announces More Than $1.3 Million in Grants for Hudson Estuary Projects - The projects will enhance public enjoyment of the river, clean up pollution, promote environmental stewardship, and preserve the natural resources of the estuary.
- Two Yearly DEC Saratoga Nursery Programs Offer Seedlings - Free tree and shrub seedlings are available to schools and low-cost seedlings are available to landowners to encourage tree planting.
- DEC Issues Draft Unit Management Plan for Tioughnioga - A public meeting on the proposed UMP was held on January 25 in Cazenovia and written comments will be accepted until March 1.
- Conservationist Magazine has the Cure for Mid-winter Cabin Fever - The February Conservationist is packed with great places to go and fun things to do outdoors in New York-plus a FREE full day of skiing at Belleayre Mountain when you subscribe by March 1, 2006.
- DEC Announces Wildlife Rehabilitator and Falconry Apprentice License Exams - Pre-registration is due March 24 for the Wildlife Rehabilitator License Exam slated for April 14, whereas applications are due April 7 for the Falconry Apprentice License Exam slated for April 28.
- DEC Announces Availability of Water Quality Improvement Project Grants - The deadline for submitting grant applications is March 31, 2006.
- Governor Announces $25 Million in New Funds for Rivers and Estuaries Center on the Hudson - At the same time, construction begins on the world-class research and education facility.
- DEC Announces Environmental Grants to Aid NYC Area - The projects encourage community involvement in stewardship and education programs.
- State and City Officials Announce Long Island Sound Environmental Improvements - The governor announced $6.35 million in environmental improvement grants to local governments bordering the sound, while state and New York City officials announced an agreement to improve the sound's water quality by gradually making substantial nitrogen discharge reductions.
- DEC Preserving 43 Acres in Albany County - The parcel-which brings Governor Pataki's goal of preserving one million acres of open space closer-will be added to Five Rivers Environmental Education Center and provide permanent protection for the Vlomankill corridor, including wetlands and grassland habitat.
- Don't Miss "Empire State Outdoors" in February - In each show, you'll discover unique places and meet fascinating people as you explore New York's natural wonders.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Pheasant Release Programs - Applications for the cooperative programs are due by March 15.
January 2006
- Governor Pataki Announces Regional Agreement to Curb Greenhouse Gases - Following a climate change plan by New York and six other states in the Northeast would reduce CO2 emissions from power plants by 10 percent by the year 2019.
- DEC Presents 2005 Environmental Excellence Awards - Six winners were honored for their outstanding efforts in environmental innovation, sustainability and creative partnerships that benefit New York State.
- DEC Issues Draft UMP for Blue Ridge Wilderness and Wakely Mountain Area - The plan is available for review, and a public meeting will be held on February 7, 2006.
- DEC Alerts Visitors to Winter Conditions in Adirondacks - For a safe and enjoyable time in the cold and snow, dress properly, bring the right equipment and be aware of the weather.
- DEC Assisted by SCA in Ridding Norton Basin of "Wrack" - DEC staff and SCA interns worked hard and long to remove phragmities and garbage from this natural resources area in Queens.
- Conservationist Magazine's Stunning Photography Brings the Outdoors to Your Door - Photographs from December's issue are an excellent example of why outdoor enthusiasts of all ages enjoy the Conservationist.
- N.G. Kaul Memorial Scholarship Established - Scholarships in honor of N.G. Kaul's service to the people of New York State will be awarded to students who are working in government and pursuing a degree in civil or environmental engineering.
- Agreements to Protect and Conserve Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin Announced - New York has reached agreements with seven Great Lakes states and two Canadian provinces to improve the management, protection, and conservation of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin and associated water-dependent natural resources.
- DEC Renews Commitment to Hudson River Restoration with Action Agenda - The Action Agenda expands the state's efforts to protect and conserve the Hudson River; outlines initiatives that will continue the progress made thus far, and addresses public comments about the draft released in April 2005.
- DEC Closes on First Phase of State's Largest Land Conservation Project - DEC exchanged final closing papers with the International Paper Corporation on a 41,500-acre working forest conservation easement, part of the overall 257,000-acre project that protects the largest privately held forest land in the Adirondack Park.
- DEC Announces Proposed Fishing Regulations for 2006-2008 - Public comments are encouraged on the new proposals, which are intended to enhance available fishing opportunities while protecting New York's precious natural resources.
- DEC Offering Tests to Fill Lifeguard Positions - These forthcoming tests are being offered for free to help make it easier for those interested and qualified to apply for rewarding and productive summer positions with DEC.
- Belleayre Offers Transportation to Ulster County Skiers - Belleayre sees this as an opportunity to fulfill its mission of stewardship to the environment by encouraging visitors to use public transportation.
- DEC Launching Studies to Improve Wild Turkey Management - This four-year study-the first major field assessment of wild turkey harvest management in New York State since the 1970s- will provide wildlife managers with current estimates of harvest rates for male wild turkeys and guide future management efforts.
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