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Environment DEC
2005 Archive
December 2005
- Denise M. Sheehan Confirmed as DEC Commissioner - Ms. Sheehan had been serving as Acting Commissioner of DEC since Erin Crotty's departure in February of 2005.
- "Empire State Outdoors" Debuts - Empire State Outdoors, a 30-minute TV show first airing on December 10, will originate from different locations throughout the state and present stories, outdoor news, instructional and educational segments and tourism opportunities.
- DEC Announces Grants for Household Hazardous Waste Disposal - State funds amounting to $2.30 million will help municipalities statewide collect household hazardous materials.
- State Releases 2005 Draft Open Space Conservation Plan - Agencies are seeking public comment on the plan, which will be used to guide land preservation efforts.
- Belleayre Opens for 56th Season - With many new improvements adding to the excitement, Belleayre begins its 2005-2006 skiing and snowboarding season in high style.
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Wins State and Federal Recognition - This past summer, the plant was recognized with a state award for excellence and innovation which led to federal recognition in the fall.
- Avalanche of Frosty Fun at Ed Centers - There's no need to hibernate when the DEC Environmental Education Centers offer so many ways for the entire family to enjoy the coming winter.
- Exam for Forest Ranger to be Held - Here's your opportunity to make your life's work protecting the forests, wildlife, air, water and land of the great State of New York.
- 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.
- Meetings on Draft Brownfield and Superfund Regulations Continue - Following up on last month's announcement, full text of the draft regulations have been available for public review since November 16.
- State Environmental Board Approves New Vehicle Emissions Standards - The new standards will help reduce harmful air pollutants that contribute to climate change.
- Invasive Species: DEC Issues Final Report and Announces Eradication Grants - After months of public comment, the final report of the Invasive Species Task Force was issued. Simultaneously, DEC announced that grants will be made available to communities for the eradication of aquatic invasives. Grant applications will be accepted until February 28, 2006.
- DEC Dedicates Renovated Region 5 Sub-office in Warrensburg - The building, designed to meet "Green Building" standards, was completely renovated and expanded to allow DEC programs and services to be provided more effectively, and to make the building more functional and useable for the public.
- DEC Announces Proposed Marine Fishing Regulation Changes - The public is encouraged to comment on the draft regulations until December 30, 2005.
- Big Game Hunting Continues - Open since October 22 in the Northern Zone, hunting lasts through the end of late archery and muzzle-loading seasons on December 20 in the Southern Zone.
- Give the Gift of Nature with a Subscription to Conservationist Magazine - Expert articles and stunning photography make it the perfect way to share your love of nature with family and friends this holiday season.
- New York Recycles Poster Contest Picks Winners - This fourth annual poster contest helps DEC achieve its goal of greater awareness and excellence in waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and buying recycled products and packaging.
- The Beetles Make Another Come Back - by Peter Jentsch - Whether you call them ladybugs or ladybirds, the many benefits of these colorful insects outweigh their few harmful effects.
November 2005
- Grants Announced for Improvements to Long Island Estuaries - More than $9.1 million in grants will help to improve water quality and protect and restore habitats throughout the Peconic and South Shore estuaries.
- Information Meetings Scheduled Regarding Draft Part 375 Superfund/Brownfield Regulations - Beginning on Tuesday, November 29, DEC will conduct the first of seven public information meetings, each of which will consist of two sessions-one about general regulations and the other about soil cleanup objectives.
- Five Rivers EEC Hosts "Inclusive" Outdoor Recreation Day - During this special day, people with disabilities learned about equipment, facilities and opportunities that make it possible and easier for them to pursue and enjoy outdoor activities.
- Celebrations to Mark Anniversaries of Historic Voyages - Although the anniversaries are several years away, the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission is already making plans for multiple celebrations to mark three historic events.
- State Purchasing More Than 400 Acres in Catskill Park - The acquisition of four properties totaling 403 acres in the Catskills includes the Woodstock Guild of Artist and Craftsmen parcel; the Berg parcel; the Karma Triyana Dharmachakra, Inc. (KTD) parcel, and the Illjes parcel.
- Belleayre Mountain Ski Center Improvements - Two new glade runs and a new double-diamond trail will enhance the Belleayre experience for all snow sports enthusiasts this winter, and a forthcoming high-speed chairlift promises to do likewise later in the 2006 ski season.
- Turkey Season in Full Fall Swing - Great weather on the first weekend of turkey hunting season, which began on Saturday, October 1, gave hunters their first opportunity to take home their own Thanksgiving dinners.
- Conservationist Magazine Brings the Outdoors to Your Door - The price for a year's subscription to this great magazine will be increasing to $12, but if you subscribe now, you can still get all six issues-and a free "critters guide" to boot-for only $10!
- Governor Announces $2.42 Million for Brownfield Projects - One of the nine community grants awarded was nearly $349,000 to Warrensburg for investigation of a former mill site on the Schroon River.
- First Wilderness Park for People with Disabilities Dedicated - The 200-acre John Dillon Park, located on New York route 30 between Long Lake and Tupper Lake, makes it possible for people of all abilities to camp, fish and thoroughly enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
- Additional Deer Management Permits Available from DEC - Approximately 19,000 permits will be issued to hunters who were not selected during the DMP instant lottery earlier this year; in addition, a second deer-management permit application period began on November 1 for Long Island and several archery-only wildlife management units.
- DEC Recognizes Hadley Mountain Fire Tower Committee - DEC recognized the committee for restoring and maintaining the fire tower and trail; providing public enjoyment of the fire tower, and instilling the public with knowledge and appreciation of the cultural and natural history of the fire tower and its surroundings.
- 2005 New York State Recycling Conference - All are welcome to attend this two-day event sponsored by the Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and the New York State Association for Reduction, Reuse and Recycling, Inc. (NYSAR3).
- Slow Down, Steer Clear and Look Out for Deer - It's that time of year to be on the lookout for deer on or near roadways, especially during early morning and late afternoon when collisions with them are more likely.
- Department of Environmental Conservation Seeks Assistance from Website Users - The general public is asked to volunteer a little time to help DEC improve our website for the benefit of all users.
October 2005
September 2005
- DEC Announces Statewide Meetings on Chronic Wasting Disease - Information on the response to the discovery of the deer disease will be provided at the meetings.
- Governor Announces $132 Million for Water Projects - Low-interest loans will support 26 projects throughout the state.
- DEC Regulation to Help Reduce Bear Encounters in High Peaks - The regulation requires the use of bear-resistant canisters in the eastern zone of the high-peaks.
- Governor Pataki Signs Clean Energy Tax Credit Bills - The bills will encourage the use of clean, alternative sources of renewable energy and better protect New York's environment.
- Governor Signs Legislation to Increase Boater Safety - As of January 2006, the minimum age for children allowed to operate personal watercraft will be raised to 14 years old.
- DEC Proposes Amended Putnam and Dutchess Counties Wetland Maps - Amended maps will offer increased protection of the region's important ecosystems.
- Governor Announces Protection of 2,500 Acres in Otsego County - From three properties, including 1,036 donated acres, a new state park, a new state forest and an expanded, existing state forest will be created.
- DEC Announces Urban Forestry Grants for 17 Communities - The funding for tree planting will provide beauty and energy-saving shade to urban neighborhoods.
- Draft UMP for Chemung and Schuyler State Lands Issued - A public meeting on the 2,956-acre Great Divide Unit will be held on September 7, 2005 in Montour Falls.
- Take a Ramble...Then a Lark - Fourteen days of fall events, the Hudson River Valley Ramble and Lark in the Park, promise a bountiful harvest of fun for culture lovers and outdoor adventurers from junior to senior.
- DEC Announces Temporary Closure of Three Shellfishing Areas - The areas on the north shore of Long Island will be closed over the Labor Day holiday, but are expected to reopen on Friday, September 9.
- DEC Investigating Death of Birds on Lake Ontario Shore - Type E Botulism has been found in some of the dead birds. The public is advised to take care in handling fish and game.
- Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy Announced - The public is invited to comment by September 16, 2005 on this strategy to help conserve critical wildlife habitat.
- More than 250 Acres Preserved in Dutchess County - The land will expand the Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center.
- Sporting Licenses Available for 2005-06 Seasons - Deer Management Permits, hunting, fishing and trapping licenses are all available, and for the first time, can be purchased over the internet.
- Northern Snakehead Fish Found in New York City Lake - Due to their potential as predators of native New York fish, possession and importation of live snakehead-an air-breathing freshwater fish-was prohibited in New York State as of June 2004.
- DEC Issues Violations for Manure Spill and Fish Kill - An investigation indicates that there were permit and water quality violations at a Lewis County farm.
- Grants for Capital District Announced - Eleven grants will support recreation, preservation and waterfront revitalization projects in Albany, Rensselaer and Schenectady counties.
- Governor Signs Oil and Gas Bill to Help Protect Landowners - The new law helps clarify leasing options and helps mineral owners assess risks and rewards of leasing.
- DEC to Prepare Management Plan on Winona State Forest - A public meeting on the plan is scheduled for September 19, 2005, in Mannsville, Jefferson County.
- Law Signed to Improve Energy Efficiency of Appliances and Electronics - Products that are more energy efficient will help to reduce pollution, energy consumption, and ultimately, our reliance on foreign oil.
- DEC Issues Draft UMPs for Hamilton County Areas - The Lewey Lake Campground and Day Use Area and the 106,770-acre Silver Lake Wilderness are encompassed by the two unit management plans.
- The Brilliance of Autumn Comes to Life in the October Issue of Conservationist - The October issue also features a story and pullout poster about the amazingly speedy ruffed grouse. Here's a preview...
August 2005
- Final Plan for Cleanup of Onondaga Lake Issued - This cleanup will be one of the largest such projects in the history of New York State.
- Agreement to Protect 654 Acres in Croton Watershed - In addition to preserving open space, this agreement will help to protect a critical source of drinking water for millions of people in New York City.
- Draft Report from Invasive Species Task Force - The New York State departments of Environmental Conservation and Agriculture and Markets are seeking public comment on this report, which describes problems associated with invasive plants, animals and pathogens, and discusses existing efforts by government, conservation groups and industry.
- State Announces Completion of Hudson River Swim Study - The objective of the study was to inventory and investigate sites that could accommodate safe swimming while meeting local and state regulations and other factors that govern the establishment of beaches.
- Revisions to Proposed Great Lakes Water Management Agreements - These revisions will strengthen the management and protection of the Great Lakes waters and water-dependent natural resources.
- More Urban Youth Attend DEC Summer Environmental Education Camps in 2005 - Thanks to DEC "camperships," more than 270 urban youngsters will enjoy a free, week-long stay at one of DEC's summer environmental education camps.
- Draft UMP Issued for St. Regis Canoe Area - The St. Regis Canoe Area, the only designated canoe area in New York State, attracts canoeists and kayakers from across the country and also offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, hunting and fishing.
- Governor Announces $100,000 for Adirondack Research Library at Paul Schaefer House - The Association for the Protection of the Adirondacks has constructed a 4,000-square-foot library to house its unique and valuable collection of works depicting the natural, cultural and political history of the Adirondack and Catskill parks.
- Governor Announces Grants for Oneida and Montgomery Counties - Nearly $580,000 in EPF awards administered through the OPRHP and the Department of State will fund five recreation, waterfront revitalization and preservation projects.
- DEC Announces New Online Plant Atlas - The New York Flora Atlas is an online source of information about the more than 4,000 plant species that grow in the state.
- DEC Seeks Public Input on Draft Unit Management Plans - Written public comments on the Broome and Tioga State Forests UMPs are encouraged and will be accepted until August 26 and 27, 2005 respectively.
- DEC and Nature Conservancy to Research Wildlife - The New York Dragonfly and Damselfly Atlas will include the nearly 200 kinds of dragonflies and damselflies in the state, furthering the conservation of this imperiled species.
- New York Acquires Amsterdam Beach as New State Park - The property, more than 122 acres of oceanfront land on the bluffs of Montauk Point in the Town of East Hampton, includes 54 acres of sensitive wetlands and maritime grasslands and is one of the last remaining significant tracts of undeveloped land in Montauk.
- State's Environment Resplendent in the Pages of the Conservationist - All the best that New York has to offer can be found in this award-winning magazine that brings nature to your door.
July 2005
- DEC Announces Adoption of New Deer Hunting Season Changes - The most prominent change is moving the opening day of the Southern Zone regular deer season from a Monday to a Saturday to accommodate young hunters and others who are unable to take time off from work during the week.
- DEC Establishes Marine Enforcement Unit - The new unit will be responsible for protecting the state's marine resources by enforcing state and federal laws and regulations concerning habitat preservation and the recreational and commercial harvesting of fish, shellfish, and crustacea.
- Governor Announces $720,000 for Preservation, Recreation and Waterfront Revitalization in Southern Tier - The Environmental Protection Fund grant will be used to support eight projects in Broome, Chemung, Cortland, Tioga and Tompkins counties.
- Governor Unveils New Vision to Create Erie Canal Greenway - The goal is to link the Niagara and Hudson Valley greenways into one Empire State Greenway.
- Governor Attends Groundbreaking for Syracuse Center of Excellence - The new facility, which will be built on a remediated brownfield site, will make central New York a worldwide leader in environmental and energy technologies.
- Bass Season Begins - DEC encourages residents, visitors to enjoy New York's many bass fishing opportunities
- Governor Pataki, Senator Wright, Announce $4 Million for New Biofuel Plant in Fulton - The $4 million will be part of nearly $160 million in total that will be invested to convert the former Miller Brewery in central New York into an ethanol production plant.
- Nearly $2 Million in EPF Grants Will Support 16 Projects in the Adirondacks and North Country - The projects will include waterfront revitalization, recreation and preservation in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.
- Nearly $1 Million in Environmental Grants for Warren, Washington and Saratoga Counties - Among the awards to support waterfront revitalization and recreation projects is a $250,000 grant to the Town of Bolton to implement water quality projects in the Lake George watershed.
- DEC Holds Informational Meetings on Proposed State Oil and Gas Lease Sales - The meetings provided information and gathered public comments about the proposed sales, which are considered important to the future energy needs of New York State.
- DEC Schedules Exam for Leashed Tracking Dog Handler - Successful applicants will receive a license, valid for five years, to use leashed tracking dogs to find wounded or injured big game animals.
June 2005
- Proposed Cuts to Greenhouse Gas Emissions Announced - New York is the first state to propose adopting California's regulations on greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles.
- Governor Announces Brownfield Grants for City of Albany - More than $565,000 have been allocated to help investigate properties in the Arbor Hill section of the city. The grants are being funded through the 1996 Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act Environmental Restoration Program.
- DEC Regulation to Help Reduce Bear Encounters in High Peaks - The proposed regulation will require the use of bear-resistant canisters for food storage, toiletries, and garbage on overnight campouts in the High Peaks from April 1 to November 30.
- Grant to Support Cleanup of Former Welch Foods Site in Chautauqua County - More than $783,000 will be used to clean up soil contamination and materials that contain asbestos at the site located in the Village of Brocton.
- Tentative 2005-06 Waterfowl Hunting Seasons Announced - Although the purpose of publishing tentative dates is to enable hunters to plan their activities well in advance, they should be aware that waterfowl hunting season dates will not be final until final federal regulations have been adopted in late summer.
- DEC Announces New Custom License Plate - Sales of the "Conserve Habitat" license plate will help to raise funds for and increase awareness of habitat preservation.
- Agreement to Protect Long Island Sound Imposes Historic Restrictions on Dumping - The agreement imposes specific restrictions to ensure that alternatives to dumping are sought, and it outlines conditions requiring state and federal agencies to work cooperatively on a regional dredged material management plan.
- Hikers Alerted to Muddy Trail Conditions in Adirondack High Peaks - To promote safety and avoid damaging natural resources, hikers are advised to use trails only at lower elevations during the spring mud season because the soil there is drier and less erosive than in the higher peaks.
- DEC Announces $450,000 in Open Space Grants - Projects receiving state grants include strategic stewardship and land conservation plans for local land trusts in Long Island, Orange County, and the Catskills, conservation easement projects in Columbia and Nassau counties and regional-scale open space protection projects along the Battenkill River, the Hudson Highlands and the Eastern Westchester Biotic Corridor.
- Bond Act Funding Will Support 10 Projects Throughout New York State - Nearly $1.2 million has been earmarked for brownfield projects in nine counties.
- Governor Announces Funds for Landfill Closure Projects - Seven communities will receive a total of $8.5 million to close inactive municipal landfills, which will help to prevent polluted runoff or leachate from entering groundwater.
- Governor Introduces Community Preservation Act - The legislation would allow cities, towns and villages in New York State to impose a real estate transfer fee of up to two percent of the sale price of real property to fund the preservation of local communities and the establishment of open space initiatives.
- DEC Issues Draft UMP for Jessup River Wild Forest - A public meeting will be held on June 30, and DEC will accept written comments on the draft until August 1, 2005.
- Raritan Bay Shellfish Transplant Program Reopens - An overall decrease in the prevalence of a hard clam parasitic disease-quahog parasite unknown-has allowed DEC to reopen approximately 2,600 acres out of 10,400 acres for transplant harvesting.
- Season Open for Many Popular Game Fish Species - Walleye, northern pike, pickerel and tiger muskellunge seasons began, as well as a special black bass season on Lake Erie.
- DEC Announces 2004 Black Bear Harvest Figures - Hunters harvested 1,014 black bears statewide-the third highest harvest and well above the previous ten-year statewide average of 851.
May 2005
- Emergency Regulations Issued Due to Confirmation of Chronic Wasting Disease in Oneida County Wild Deer - A sample from a wild, yearling white-tailed deer was confirmed positive and is the first known occurrence of CWD in a wild deer in New York State.
- Governor Celebrates Earth Day on Long Island with Preservation of 300 Acres of Pine Barrens - While on Long Island, the Governor announced a partnership to preserve more than 300 acres of the Central Long Island Pine Barrens, the largest remaining privately owned parcel in the core preservation area.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants - Last year, a $1,000 grant was awarded to each of 301 fire departments to enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities, and comparable funding is expected to be available this year.
- Grants Announced for Various Counties in Central and Western New York - Funds from the state EPF will be used for recreation, preservation and waterfront revitalization projects.
- Governor Renews Commitment to Restore Hudson River - More than $1.3 million in Hudson River Estuary grants for 46 local community projects will help to strengthen and preserve the diverse natural resources of the Hudson River Estuary and its tributaries and watersheds.
- Governor Commemorates Arbor Day in New York State by Announcing $200,000 in Urban and Community Forestry Grants - The grants will be used in 26 communities throughout New York State for tree-planting projects that will help enhance and revitalize local neighborhoods and parks.
- Governor Announces $3.7 Million for Waterfront Projects, Preservation and Recreation on Long Island - Projects will include expanding public access and amenities at waterfront areas in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
- Governor Announces 13 State Campgrounds Among Top 100 in Nation - ReserveAmerica's third annual list of Top 100 Family Campgrounds includes 3 more New York State campgrounds than last year, and DEC operates 5 of the 13 on the list.
- Governor Introduces Clean and Healthy Schools Legislation - The legislation requires New York State schools to use environmentally sensitive or "green" cleaning products to protect the health of schoolchildren and the environment.
- Governor Pataki Breaks Ground for "Green Building" in Battery Park City - A high-rise apartment building is the first green building to be constructed since September 11th without using government incentives.
- Earth Day 2005 Marks Record-Breaking Tree-Planting Effort at Camp DeBruce and DEC's Anniversary Too - On Friday, April 22, 2005, tree planting at Camp DeBruce helped to break a worldwide Guiness record, and DEC observed its 35th anniversary.
- DEC Issues Updated Draft Unit Management Plan for Wilmington Wild Forest - The original draft UMP has been revised to include a proposal to construct a 4.5-mile snowmobile trail on forest preserve lands, and DEC will accept the public's written comments about the proposed change until May 31, 2005.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Second Annual Environmental Excellence Awards - The awards recognize organizations, businesses, local governments, and individuals in New York State that excel in innovative and sustainable environmental practices and partnerships.
- ECOs Named Environmental Conservation Officers of 2003 and 2004 - ECO Brian P. Shea, Monroe County, and Captain Gary L. Bobseine, Cattaraugus County, recently received the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association Law Enforcement Award for 2003 and 2004 respectively.
- Applications Now Available for Citizen Participation in Brownfield Cleanups - Technical assistance grants for eligible community groups will support efforts to increase public awareness and understanding of cleanup activities taking place in their communities.
- Governor Announces Environmental Grants for New York City - The grants are being awarded to metropolitan area organizations to support projects that foster restoration, care, understanding, and enjoyment of the natural areas of the city and designated parts of Westchester County.
- DEC Provides Tips on Avoiding Conflicts with Coyotes - One way of avoiding coyotes is to not leave sources of food such as birdfeeders, garbage, compost or pet dishes unsecured or outside, especially at night.
- Governor Announces $1.1 Million for Westchester Parks and Preservation - Two grants will go to the City of Peekskill for rehabilitating the historic Lincoln Train Depot and constructing a new visitor center at the site.
- Governor Pataki Proposes Additional Wetlands Protections - Under the proposed legislation, wetlands of less than 12.4 acres that are no longer subject to federal protections would be regulated by DEC or the local jurisdiction; permits would be required for activities in these wetlands, and civil penalties for filling in or damaging wetlands would be increased to promote better compliance with state and federal law.
- New Marine Fishing Regulations for 2005-06 - The changes involving season, size, and catch limits will affect summer flounder (fluke), scup, black sea bass, striped bass, and bluefish.
- Proposed Deer Hunting Season Changes Announced - Among the more prominent proposed changes is moving the opening day of the Southern Zone regular deer season from a Monday to a Saturday, which would provide opportunities for young hunters and others who are unable to take time off from work during the week.
April 2005
- New York State Trout Fishing Season Opened April 1 - Relatively cool and wet weather during the last two summers has created ideal conditions for the growth and survival of both stocked and wild trout, promising excellent fishing.
- Positive Cases of CWD Found in Oneida County Deer - Two captive white-tailed deer recently tested positive for chronic wasting disease--a fatal, transmissible disease that affects the central nervous systems of deer and elk.
- New Bird Conservation Areas in New York City and Western New York - A BCA at Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve on Staten Island and another at Joseph Davis State Park in Lewiston, Niagara County will provide for the protection of birds and bird habitat and expand opportunities to enjoy bird watching and the great outdoors.
- Governor Announces Brownfield Grant for Dutchess County - The grant will fund cleanup of the Perx Property, a former apple orchard and food processing facility in the Village of Red Hook, which will be developed for affordable senior housing and commercial space.
- More than $200,000 in Grants for Recreation and Trails in Westchester County - A major project will enhance the Village of Croton-on-Hudson's shoreline at Croton Landing by further development of a multi-use waterfront park.
- Splitting Hares to Save a Species, or When is a Bunny Not Just Any Ol' Wabbit? - New England cottontails--a species of special concern in New York State due to dwindling numbers--are the subject of a Fish and Wildlife Seminar.
- DEC Releases Results of Enforcement Initiative - The results show continued progress in identifying and correcting sources of environmental pollution and promoting greater compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
- DEC Web Site Now Enables Hunters to Comment On Proposed Waterfowl Seasons - Waterfowl hunters are encouraged to send DEC their input via a link on the new web pages.
- Governor, Majority Leader and Speaker Sign Brownfields Agreement - Funds have been allocated for more than 50 projects to develop strategies as well as to assist communities throughout New York State in redeveloping brownfields.
- Applications for DEC Summer Environmental Camps Available - Week-long sessions, at $250 per camper, begin June 26, 2005, and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- DEC Issues Draft UMP for Shaker Mountain Wild Forest - A public meeting will be held on April 14, 2005, and DEC will accept written comments on the draft until April 29, 2005.
- State Releases Draft Policy for ATV Access on Public Lands - The proposed policy will ensure that ATV access on state lands will conform to numerous laws and regulations and protect private lands and the environment.
- Applications Sought for EPA Targeted Watershed Grants - The grants program encourages protection and restoration of water bodies in the U.S. through the use of watershed approaches, and this year's emphasis will be on water-quality trading projects and projects within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
- Harvest Figures Released for 2004 Deer Season - Although the deer take declined in major hunting zones across New York State, related shooting incidents were at their lowest in 2004 thanks to an increase in safety-conscious hunters.
- Electronic Naturalist Enhances Environmental Education - The Roger Tory Peterson Institute sponsors an interactive resource for both environmental educators and students called the Electronic Naturalist
March 2005
- Governor Announces Expansion of Clean School Bus Program - The New York Power Authority will install control devices to reduce diesel emissions from thousands of New York City school buses, evaluate other relevant technologies, and continue to monitor bus emissions.
- Governor Announces Brownfields Grant for Fulton County - A grant of $185,000 will fund investigation of a former tannery and other sites in the City of Johnstown.
- Grants Available for Water Quality Improvement Projects - DEC is making approximately $20 million available to municipalities throughout the state for projects that focus on stormwater management and non-point source abatement and control, and, in certain areas, for wastewater treatment improvement and aquatic habitat restoration.
- DEC Staff Share Award with Cornell University for Training Manual - The Wildlife Society's "Outstanding Professional Award" is the second award that DEC and Cornell University have received for Best Practices for Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators, a manual that has generated interest nationwide.
- DEC Warns of Avalanche Danger in Adirondacks - Winter visitors to the back country of the Adirondack Mountains should be aware of avalanche danger and take appropriate precautions, especially during and immediately after major snowfalls, as well as during thaws.
- Governor Announces Milestone in Protection of Albany Pine Bush Preserve - The recent addition of 70 acres to the Pine Bush Preserve has helped Governor Pataki to reach-and even exceed-his goal of protecting at least 3,000 acres.
- Governor Pataki Announces $136 Million for Water Projects - The New York State Revolving Funds programs will provide long-term loans to 20 communities throughout the state for 29 projects to prevent water pollution and protect local drinking water supplies.
- Five Rivers Environmental Education Center Reaches Attendance Milestone - The number of visitors to DEC's popular environmental education center in Delmar has grown steadily for two decades and recently reached 2.5 million.
- DEC Opening Shellfishing in Long Island's Narrow Bay - Under new regulations, annual shellfish harvesting will be permitted in a 476-acre section east of the Smith Point County Park from January 1 through April 14.
- DEC Offers Free Tree and Shrub Seedlings to Schools - The purpose of this program is to teach children throughout New York State the importance of planting trees and being good stewards of the land.
February 2005
- DEC Presents First Annual Environmental Excellence Awards - This new awards program was established in 2004 to recognize emerging technologies, superior management practices and creative partnerships that achieve exceptional environmental, social and economic benefits for New York State.
- Subscribe to Environment DEC's Mailing List - With this new (free) service, DEC will notify you automatically as each issue of Environment DEC--a monthly publication--is available on our web site.
- Governor Proposes Budget Increases for Environmental Protection Fund - A record $150 million-a 20 percent increase over last year-builds on the Governor's historic commitment to the state's environment.
- DEC Announces Statewide Deer Management Meetings - Meetings are being held in all nine DEC regions, and the public is invited to provide comments on proposed changes for the 2005-06 deer season.
- DEC Announces Exams for Volunteer Wildlife Rehabilitator and Apprentice Falconer - Registration and application deadlines for the Wildlife Rehabilitator and Falconry Apprentice exams are scheduled for March 18 and April 8 respectively.
- Governor Announces Departure of DEC Commissioner Erin Crotty - Denise M. Sheehan, Executive Deputy Commissioner at DEC, will serve as Acting Commissioner of the agency.
- New York State's Largest Coal Plants to Slash Pollution Levels - Landmark agreements will enhance air quality throughout the state, improve public health and reduce acid rain.
- Grants Available for Water Quality Improvement Projects New York City Watershed Protection Program - One million dollars in federal safe drinking water funds are available for applications received by February 28, 2005.
- The Conservationist, New York State's Award-winning Outdoor Magazine - A subscription will bring a year's worth of information, entertainment and beauty right to your door in a format that you can keep and enjoy indefinitely.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Pheasant Release Programs - The Day-Old Pheasant Chick Program and the Young Pheasant Release Program provide hunting opportunities through a partnership among DEC, sportsmen and sportswomen, 4-H youth, and landowners.
January 2005
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