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Environment DEC
2007 Archive
December 2007
- State Seeks Reversal of Department of Energy Power Corridor Designation - The designation would allow the federal government to override the state's environmental review process for power transmission projects.
- State Requests Full Environmental Assessment at Indian Point Nuclear Plant - The application for a 20-year license merits more than just a generic review, according to the comments submitted jointly by DEC and the State Attorney General's Office to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
- New York Joins Car-emissions Lawsuit - Fifteen states are suing EPA for the ability to aggressively reduce automobile emissions.
- State and City Crackdown on Truck and Boiler Pollution to Assist Urban Neighborhood - A combination public health and environmental justice effort, the enforcement action targets high asthma and high traffic areas in East Harlem, where asthma hospitalization rates are four times the national average.
- State-City Agree to Major Expansion of Recreational Access to Catskill Watershed Lands - Generally, city permits are required for access to city-owned land in the watershed, but this agreement eliminates the need for such permits on 11,000 acres adjacent to the State Forest Preserve.
- Meetings Set for Belleayre Mountain Proposals - DEC welcomes comments from the public on the scope of environmental review required for the expansion of the ski center and addition of a private resort in the Catskill Park.
- Grannis and King Announce Jones Inlet Dredging Funds Now Available - Work to protect beaches and properties, improve navigation and reduce erosion will begin this winter.
- DEC Advances Plan for NY Section of North Country Trail - The national trail would connect through the Adirondacks, ending at Lake Champlain. Three public meetings from December 5 through December 7 are scheduled to discuss the proposed trail route.
- Ceremony Marks 20,000th Seedling Planted in Long Island Pine Barrens - The ceremony was a tribute to the nine-year volunteer effort by Estee Lauder Corporation employees.
- DEC Announces Habitat and Recreation Improvement Grants - The projects are funded by DEC's Habitat Access Stamp Program. Habitat/Access Stamps are sold by sporting license sales agents throughout New York, though you don't need to buy a license to get one.
- Grannis Marks "America Recycles Day" - Marking the annual event, DEC's Commissioner encouraged New Yorkers to participate by making a commitment to recycling.
- Public Meeting Set for Charleston State Forests Management Plan - The meeting to discuss management of the more than 7,000-acre parcel is scheduled for December 10 at 6:30 PM at the Montgomery County Annex Building in Fonda, NY.
- DEC Announces Recipients of Grants to Protect Private Grasslands - The grants, through the Landowner Incentive Program, help landowners manage and protect dwindling grassland habitats on their properties.
- DEC Confirms More Cases of Deer Disease EHD in NY - Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been detected in deer in Albany, Rensselaer and Niagara counties.
- Migratory Bird Die-off in Great Lakes Region Prompts DEC Investigation - The type E botulism poisonings are linked to invasive species that have spread in the Great Lakes for the past several years.
- Commissioner Grannis and Cardinal Egan Dedicate "John Cardinal O'Connor Lighthouse" - The state, the Archdiocese of New York, and other partners also announced the preservation of 100 more acres of open space on Staten Island.
- New Online Resource for Anglers Available on DEC's Website - A hotline phone number and web page, featuring weekly fishing updates for western Lake Ontario and its tributaries, is now available to help anglers find fishing hot spots.
- DEC Acquires Junius Ponds and Gathercole Properties - A total of 172 acres will be preserved in the Finger Lakes region of Central New York.
- Green Up Your Holidays by Reducing, Reusing, Recycling, Composting and Buying Recycled - People everywhere are seeing the need to live greener. Conserving resources, even during the holidays, is a truly meaningful way to put environmental principles into practice now and continue following them in the New Year.
- Workshops Held on Resolving Canada Geese Conflicts in the Hudson Valley - Information was provided on goose biology, control methods, aversion techniques, community-based strategies and regulations.
- DEC Announces $2.75 Million to Help Vulnerable Wildlife - Twenty projects will receive funding to assist species most in need of protection.
November 2007
- New York Issues Draft Regulations for Cutting-Edge Initiative to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions - Cutting-edge regulations proposed by Governor Spitzer will help to reduce emissions, foster energy efficiency and conservation and spur development of clean and renewable sources of energy.
- DEC Hosts Inclusive Day-Long Event and Opens Universal Access Trail - In recognition of National Disability Awareness Month, DEC hosted a family-friendly day of inclusive, outdoor recreation activities at Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Albany County and officially opened a new, universally accessible trail at Lampson Falls in St. Lawrence County.
- DEC and Other Partners in Air Quality Data Exchange Receive Innovations Award - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and its sister agencies in New Jersey and Delaware were the recipients of the AQDE Award for helping to make air-monitoring data available almost immediately upon its collection.
- New Initiatives Enhance Protection of Hudson River Areas - As New York celebrated National Estuaries Day, the Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area was designated as the state's first natural heritage area, providing new and greater protections for the land and waters it encompasses.
- 2007-2008 Trapping Season Open - Trappers may voluntarily submit samples and trapping diaries to DEC and Cornell University for research designed to improve the state's trapping and furbearer-management programs.
- Team to Address Vanishing Jamaica Bay Wetlands - The objective of the DEC response team is to look at the potential causes of vegetation loss in the marsh islands and outline goals, recommendations and actions to address this threat and protect the remaining tidal marsh from further loss while improving the marine environment.
- Protection of Water Resources is Focus of 7th Annual "Make A Splash with Project WET" Water Festival - The festival, which includes fun, hands-on activities that make it easier for students to learn about the environment, is designed to raise awareness of the need for water and watershed education and draw attention to the vital role this important resource plays in our everyday lives and in our ecosystem.
- Brownfield Grants - ERP grants totaling more than $286,000 have been announced for the Village of Dolgeville in Herkimer County and the City of Newburgh in Orange County to investigate and remediate environmental contamination at sites in these locations.
- Due to Drought, DEC Closes or Delays Fishing in Some Areas - Fishing in the West Canada Creek has been closed, and fishing in a portion of the Salmon River has been further delayed to protect trout and salmon fisheries during the current drought.
- Eastern Lake Ontario Barrier Beach State's Newest Natural Heritage Area - A 17-mile stretch that encompasses one of the largest inland dune systems in the eastern Great Lakes would become New York's latest natural heritage area, providing heightened protection to the 5,800-acre site.
- Rapid Waters Unit Management Plan Developed - This UMP will provide a framework for addressing issues regarding forest ecosystems, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities enjoyed by the public.
- Delaware River Plan - A new water-management proposal for the Delaware River reservoirs would improve trout habitat, bolster flood-mitigation efforts and restore a more natural flow to the river.
- DEC Investigation Into Aquebogue Hazardous Waste Dumping Results in Conviction, Penalties - Thanks to a phone call, an investigation into illegal dumping of hazardous waste at a site in the Town of Riverhead resulted in a criminal conviction and $1.575 million in penalties.
- Following Detection of EHD in Dead Deer, DEC Seeks Hunter Input on Deer Health - Following the discovery last month of several dead deer that tested positive for a disease not previously seen in New York State, DEC is requesting that hunters provide information about any sick, dying or dead animals they may encounter in the field.
- Invasive Algae Found in Additional Fishing Waters - In addition to the discovery of didymo or "rock snot" in the Batten Kill this summer, it recently was discovered in both the east and west branches of the Delaware River as well.
- DEC Names New Head of Bureau of Marine Resources - With more than 30 years of environmental experience, James Gilmore has been appointed Bureau Chief of Marine Resources in DEC's Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources.
- Moose Population on the Rise: Motorists Urged to be on the Alert - Due to the fall breeding season and an overall increase in the moose population in New York State, motorists need to be vigilant, especially in the Adirondacks.
October 2007
- A "Greenprint" for New's York's Environmental Future - Commissioner Pete Grannis recently outlined DEC's policy priorities to achieve sustainability in New York.
- Governor Spitzer Announces Agreement on Major Catskills Resort - The agreement on the $400 million project has substantial environmental safeguards built in.
- DEC Receives New York State "Best of the Web" Award - The New York State Forum, a consortium of state and local government agencies and public officials, recognized DEC's redesigned website.
- DEC Seeks Proposals to Reduce Toxics and Pollution throughout the State - The agency is establishing a pollution prevention institute to focus the energies of public, private, educational and non-profit organizations on ways to reduce toxic substances in the environment.
- DEC Among Sponsors of Compost Workshop and Recycling Conference Nov. 14-16 - The theme for this year's conference, to be held in Cooperstown, is: "New York State's Partners in Recycling."
- Major Shift in New York's Approach to Coastal Conservation Announced - At the first meeting of the New York Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Council, an approach known as "ecosystem-based management" was adopted.
- Proposed SIP Revisions will Improve Air Quality - Revisions to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for the NY Metropolitan and Poughkeepsie areas are available for public comment.
- DEC Opens Adirondack Smart Growth Applications - A total of $1 million is available for municipalities within the boundaries of the Adirondack Park.
- DEC Announces Brownfield Grants for Counties Across the State - Cleanup of contaminated sites in several towns and cities will receive more than $5 million in grant funds.
- State Creates New Invasive Species Council - The council will implement measures to combat threats to native species of plants and animals.
- Low Water Levels force a Delay of Fishing Season on a Small Portion of the Salmon River - Drought conditions caused DEC to take this step to reduce the mortality of fish entering its Salmon River Fish Hatchery.
- DEC Issues Emergency Trapping Regulations - The agency is also taking public comments on proposed permanent regulations regarding the use of body-gripping traps.
- DEC Issues Report on 2005 Pesticide Use in New York State - Violations of pesticide use laws are down for the third straight year.
- DEC Proposes Draft Unit Management Plans for Chenango Trail and Five Streams - A public meeting on the Chenango Trail UMP was already held on September 26, however, comments are still being accepted. A public meeting on the Five Streams UMP is scheduled for October 3.
- DEC Explores Woody Biomass as an Alternative Energy Source - A feasibility study currently underway centers on using Adirondack logging leftovers for fuel.
- DEC Seeks Input from Ruffed Grouse Hunters - Hunters provide invaluable assistance in population surveys and research on this popular game bird.
- DEC Names New Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources Director - Commissioner Pete Grannis names the renowned conservation biologist Patricia Riexinger to the post. Riexinger will be the division's first woman director.
- Rifle and Pistol Association Names Otsego County ECO "Officer of the Year" - Officer Thomas Harrington was recognized for his dedication to hunter education and many other career accomplishments.
- Power Authority, DEC Expand Hunting at Wilson Hill Wildlife Area - The area will be open for hunting every weekend of the waterfowl seasons. Opportunities to hunt pheasant and deer will increase as well.
- DEC Announces Decision in Floating Camp Case - The camp violated Environmental Conservation Law regarding construction of structures on navigable waters of forest preserve lands.
- Bureau of Environmental Crimes Investigations Restructured - Promoted to the rank of major, Charles Johncox will serve as Coordinator of the Bureau of Environmental Crimes Investigations assisted by Scott Florence, who was promoted to the rank of captain.
- Northern Zone Big Game Seasons in Progress, Longer Catskill Bear Season Proposed - Early season and expanded regular season hunting provide more opportunities to bag deer and black bear in New York.
September 2007
- Green Schools Summit in Long Island - A free, day-long summit on "green schools" hosted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority in cooperation with the Long Island Power Authority is being offered at Farmingdale State University on Monday, October 15.
- First NYS Green and Affordable Housing Development Opens - Governor Eliot Spitzer and New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg presented 64 homeowners with keys to new, environmentally responsible and energy-efficient houses in South Bronx.
- New Legislation Will Enable Consumers to Compare Vehicle Emissions - Beginning with the 2010 model year, automobile manufacturers will be required to affix a "global warming index" sticker to new cars and light-duty trucks to inform consumers of vehicle emissions.
- Agreement Signed to Clean Up MPG Sites in Brooklyn and Nassau Counties - Broadening a February 2007 consent order, DEC and KeySpan Energy Delivery have agreed to clean up contamination at five manufactured gas plant sites and seven gas storage sites in Brooklyn and Nassau counties.
- St. Lawrence Cement Plant Fined for Smokestack Emissions - In addition to paying a penalty, the cement plant will be subject to more stringent reporting requirements.
- Anniversary of Dairy Farm Spill Marks Advancements in CAFOs - The disaster led to improvements in planning, monitoring and enforcement requirements for concentrated animal feeding operations.
- 2007-08 Sporting Licenses Now Available - All sporting licenses will be valid from October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008.
- Eight Counties to Receive Brownfield Grants - The grants will be used to investigate and remediate contaminated sites ("brownfields") in Jefferson, Livingston, Monroe, Montgomery, Orleans, Ontario, Putnam and Rensselaer counties.
- Workshop on Implementing European Union's REACH Legislation - A day-long workshop, sponsored jointly by the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production, will help US companies prepare for REACH and remain competitive by making more informed decisions about chemicals and alternatives.
- DEC Offering "Becoming an Outdoors-Woman" Workshops - The popular workshops offer women the opportunity to learn outdoor skills such as shooting, archery, fly fishing, hunting and canoeing in a fun-filled and stress-free atmosphere.
- Ten-Year Extension Approved for Protection of Catskill/Delaware Watershed - Working together with upstate communities, various levels of government have demonstrated that they can enhance the local economy while protecting environmental resources and the drinking water supply for millions of New Yorkers.
- DEC Environmental Education Camps Celebrate 60th Anniversary - DEC operates four age-appropriate, residential camps where youths can spend a week of their summer vacation exploring the outdoors, learning new skills and becoming familiar with conservation efforts and programs.
- Gene Kelly Named Director of DEC Region 4 - Prior to working in the Attorney General's Office for the past 10 years, Mr. Kelly served as an assistant regional attorney in the Region 4 Office and as senior attorney at DEC headquarters, and he currently is an environmental law judge advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
- Eighth Annual Hudson River Valley Ramble - For the Ramble, DEC will present a series of explorations highlighting the wetlands, wildlife and water resources that make the Hudson a world-famous estuary.
- DEC Pushes EPA on Ballast Rules for Ocean-going Ships - Currently, an exemption to the federal Clean Water Act subjects America's inland water bodies to aquatic invaders riding along in ballast water from ocean-going ships.
- Didymo Found in Lower Section of Batten Kill in Washington County - Fishing becomes difficult, the abundance of bottom-dwelling organisms declines, and trout and other fish that feed on those organisms also decline where this aquatic nuisance algae exists.
- Environmental Conservation Officers Receive Awards - ECOs Kevin Mazur, Michael C. Terrell and Thomas F. Flaitz received Officer of the Year awards for 2006 from the Shikar-Safari Club International, the Northeast Conservation Law Enforcement Chiefs Association and the New York Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation respectively.
- DEC and Partners Announce Successful Green Engineering Internship Program - Through the program, Clarkson University graduate and doctoral interns work with businesses to implement green engineering strategies and to educate staff on pollution-prevention opportunities.
- DEC Completes Easement Purchase of Rayonier Lands - The easement will open access to more than 50,000 acres in St. Lawrence County for public recreation.
- DEC Announces 2007-2008 Waterfowl Season Selections - Hunters going afield at the Oak Orchard or Tonawanda wildlife management areas will need their waterfowl hunting permits for opening day and the first weekend of duck season.
August 2007
- Governor Signs Environmental Protection Fund Bill - The measure increases next fiscal year's funding by more than 10 percent.
- State Announces $1 Million in Adirondack Smart Growth Grants - DEC's commissioner will oversee this initiative in consultation with the Adirondack Park Agency.
- Zoar Valley Unique Area Dedicated to the State Preserve - Nearly 1,500 acres in Erie and Cattaraugus counties will be protected.
- Brownfield Grants for Chautauqua, Albany, Suffolk and Jefferson Counties Announced - More than $500,000 has been granted for clean up of contaminated sites in the cities of Dunkirk and Albany, East Patchogue on Long Island, and the Town of Watertown.
- Veteran Attorney Paul J. D'Amato Named to Direct DEC Region 8 - "Paul has demonstrated his commitment to the environment through his lengthy career with the agency." Commissioner Pete Grannis.
- Bill to Protect Workers, the Environment from Toxic Products with Creosote Signed - A possible human carcinogen, creosote is an ingredient in a variety of wood preservative products.
- Governor Signs Law Reaffirming State's Commitment to Dredge Jones Inlet - The dredging will address years of erosion and storms that have clogged the inlet and ravaged the beaches at Point Lookout.
- New Law Lets Big Game Hunters Use Rifles in Three Counties - The regulation takes effect this year in Chemung, Steuben and Yates counties.
- VHS Found in Three More NY Waters; Nuisance Algae Found in VT - Angler vigilance is critical to stopping the spread of both of these threats.
- DEC Seeks Input from Hunters and Anglers with Disabilities - As the population ages and life expectancy increases, hunters and anglers with disabilities will increase, prompting a need for greater access.
- DEC Forest Rangers, Staff and Volunteers Dispatched to Northeast Oregon - The New York State crew was sent to Wallowa-Whitman National Forest to help control wildfires.
- New "EnviroFlash" Tool Sends You Air Quality Updates via E-Mail, Cell Phone - Operated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the tool is designed to inform the public of air quality conditions and health advisories if the Air Quality Index exceeds certain unhealthy thresholds.
- Find Something for Every Generation in Conservationist Magazine - Conservationist helps your whole family learn and grow through its colorful, informative articles and awe inspiring photography.
- Exxon-Mobil Resumes Cleanup at Greenpoint - Restarted oil spill pumps at the former oil terminals are now required to operate under stricter rules.
- DEC, Oneida County Sign Order to Stem Mohawk River Pollution - The action to remedy Sauquoit Creek overflows gives the county development flexibility as well.
- Leaking Gas Well in Fredonia Successfully Plugged - Unplugged or improperly plugged wells can pose a threat to the environment and public health and safety.
July 2007
- Great Swamp Cleanup in Honor of Bottle Bill's 25th Anniversary - Volunteers collected small trash, bottles and debris along portions of Route 22 and other local roadways surrounding the Great Swamp.
- State Agriculture Priorities Outlined for Congressional Reps - Funding for the dairy industry, organic agriculture and development of renewable energy were cited as New York's top priorities.
- DEC and LTA Announce Partnership Grants - Because of these grants, state residents will be able to enjoy thousands of additional acres of protected farmland, nature preserves and open spaces.
- DEC Using More Stringent Measurement for Air Quality Forecasts - The standard was revised because research indicated that the previous measurement did not adequately protect public health.
- World's First Free-Flow Tidal-Power Turbines Activated in New York - The Roosevelt Island Tidal Energy (RITE) project provides more than 1,000 kilowatt hours per day of clean, emission-free electricity.
- DEC Commissioner Grannis Announces New Trails Supporter Patch - Proceeds from sales of the colorful new patch will help maintain and enhance trails throughout New York State that are not open to motorized vehicles.
- VHS Detected in Dead Fish Found at Skaneateles Lake - Although the disease is not harmful to humans, it frequently is fatal to fish, making it necessary to monitor the situation and take precautions to prevent further spread of the virus.
- DEC to Install Permanent Air Quality Monitor in Rockland County - Data that the permanent monitor will provide will help to assess the air quality, guiding Rockland's response to this important public health and environmental issue.
- Angler Input Needed To Help Manage New York's Freshwater Fisheries - An updated study is necessary because of numerous changes in angler participation and desires, fish populations and DEC's management efforts during the last decade.
- New Trapping Regulations Proposed - DEC's proposal would protect dogs from being harmed by body-grip traps used to catch wildlife, while maintaining the effectiveness of the traps.
- DEC Environmental Educator Receives National Award - Laura Carey of Rogers Environmental Education Center recently received the Project WILD Coordinator of the Year Award.
- Brownfields Bill Key to Increasing Economic Revitalization - If adopted, the new legislation would redirect state tax dollars, providing a real incentive to clean up contaminated sites throughout New York for development.
- 55.6 lb Catch Breaks State Striped Bass Record! - Thanks to effective management, populations of striped bass--such as the recent award winner--have increased in the Hudson River, much to the delight of sport fishers.
- Tentative 2007-08 Waterfowl Hunting Seasons Announced - The dates provided won't become final until late summer, but they are expected to conform to federal requirements for the coming year.
- DEC Investigation Results in Arrests for Unlawful Harvest of Horseshoe Crabs - Enforcement detail in response to local complaints results in the arrests and ticketing of numerous individuals for a variety of commercial fishing violations.
- New Yorkers Urged Not to Disturb Young Wildlife - Although some young wildlife may look as though they've been abandoned or seem helpless and in need of assistance, it usually isn't true, and even good intentions can cause harm.
June 2007
- DEC Launches "25 Days for 25 Years" Bottle Bill Anniversary Drive - The school-based campaign, launched statewide with events in Albany, Syracuse and Brookhaven, highlights the need to recycle all bottles.
- Plans to Make Governor's Mansion a "Green" Building Unveiled - By serving as a model for the state, the "Green Mansion" initiative will help address global climate change, lowering energy bills and fueling the innovation economy by supporting new industries born from the expanded use of clean power.
- New York Joins 31-State Collaboration to Collect Climate Change Information - New York will participate in The Climate Registry, which has been established to help track greenhouse gas emissions across the nation.
- Commissioner Grannis Names Four DEC Executives - The four will serve as follows: 1) Alison H. Crocker, General Counsel; 2) Val Washington, Deputy Commissioner for the divisions of Solid and Hazardous Materials, Environmental Remediation, and Mineral Resources; 3) Jared Snyder, Assistant Commissioner for Air Resources, Climate Change and Energy, and 4) Peter M. Iwanowicz, Director of the Office of Climate Change.
- Commissioner Names Four New Regional Directors - Suzanne Mattei will lead Region 2 (New York City area), Willie Janeway will lead Region 3 (Lower Hudson Valley and Catskills), Elizabeth Lowe will lead Region 5 (eastern Adirondacks), and Judy Drabicki will lead Region 6 (western Adirondacks, Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River).
- DEC Campgrounds Open for the Season - Facilities in the Adirondack and Catskill parks opened on May 18.
- Applications for Hudson Estuary, Invasive Species and Parks Grants Being Accepted Until June 29 - Even if you missed the grant workshops held statewide in May, there's still time to apply.
- State Reaches Historic Agreement With Mirant Over Lovett Power Plant - The company will shut down one unit, will not challenge tax assessments for two years, and will pay $1 million toward energy efficiency projects in northern Rockland County.
- Second Round of Habitat/Access Grants Announced - Eligible projects will target habitat improvements and enhancement of outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Two Companies Penalized for Environmental Violations - As a result of their violations, both firms are paying hundreds of thousands in fines and millions in compensation and clean up costs.
- How to Prevent Conflicts with Black Bears and Coyotes - As warm weather brings more people outdoors, chance encounters with black bears and coyotes also increase. Here's how to keep those encounters safe and enjoyable.
- DEC Treats for Sea Lampreys on the South Fork of the Ausable River - Low stream flows during a previous lamprey control treatment in September of 2006 hindered dispersal of control chemicals, making treatment again this spring necessary.
- DEC Announces New State Record for American Shad - Through DEC's Angler Achievement Awards Program, Robert Kubica of Pittsfield, MA, was recognized for landing the record fish.
- Year of Expanded Dispatch Service Proves the Value of 24/7 Coverage - Since expanding dispatch operations to 24/7 in early 2006, DEC's Region 5 Dispatch Center has ably handled tens of thousands of calls from the public, and greatly improved the agency's ability to protect the people and resources of New York.
- Watch Out for Spring Caterpillar Pests - DEC provides guidance on how to avoid and control the destructive defoliators.
- American Heart Association Honors DEC's Commissioner - Commissioner Pete Grannis received the Heart Association's Legacy Award for his work as a Member of the New York State Assembly on tobacco use prevention and control issues, and improving indoor and outdoor air quality.
- Seasons for Many Popular Gamefish Species are in Full Swing - Walleye, northern pike, pickerel and tiger muskellunge seasons, and catch-and-release bass season are in progress on many of the state's waters.
- Learn About a Hot New Alternative Energy Source in June's "Conservationist" - What's a "geoexchange"? No, it's not a new kind of stock market. Find out what it is in June's "Conservationist."
May 2007
- DEC's New Public Website Goes Live - In 2006, more than 9.2 million people came to DEC's public website for important environmental information. The site has been redesigned to make it easier for people to find the information they want and need.
- New York's Plan for Reducing Energy Costs, Curbing Pollution and Addressing Global Climate Change - The state's aggressive efforts to achieve energy efficiency and to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions are key to realizing our economic and environmental goals.
- State's First Lady and DEC Commissioner Grannis Commemorate Arbor Day in New York - New York's annual Arbor Day observance, featured a tree-planting ceremony, presentation of industry awards and the unveiling of the 2007 Arbor Day poster. An elementary student was also recognized as the state's youth poster contest winner.
- DEC Announces Statewide Brownfield Grants - More than $8 million in grants has been allocated for the cleanup of contaminated sites in ten New York communities.
- Mercury Reduction Plan for New York and New England Waters - The Northeast Regional Mercury TMDL addresses the link between mercury emissions and mercury pollution in water and stresses the need for a nationwide mercury-reduction strategy.
- DEC Closes Catskill Trails Due to Hazardous Conditions - Recent storms have created hazardous conditions on certain hiking trails in the Catskill Mountains which has resulted in some trail closures.
- Grants Available for Eradication of Invasive Species - Applications for projects proposing to eradicate both aquatic and terrestrial invasive species will be accepted until Friday, June 29, 2007.
- Hudson River Estuary Program Grants Available - Grants will range from $10,000 to $100,000 for eligible projects, and the deadline for applications is June 29, 2007.
- Revisions Made to 2007 Recreational Marine Fishing Regulations - The revised regulations will help sustain the recreational fishing opportunities and positive economic impacts that fluke fishing provides, while also meeting federal requirements to protect the fishery.
- Owners of Flood-Damaged Property to Receive Tax Relief - New legislation will provide tax relief to those whose property sustained significant flood damage last summer.
- Spring Turkey Hunting Season Begins - Preceding the May 1 opening of the spring hunting season for turkey, the popular Youth Turkey Hunt was held in late April. The recent Youth Turkey Hunt provided an excellent opportunity for youths ages 12-15 to spend time afield with experienced adult hunters, gaining the necessary knowledge and skills to become safe and responsible members of the hunting community.
- State Reaches Agreement with Wireless Provider on Northway Cellphone Coverage - This agreement will help guide development of a wireless system to cover nearly 50 miles along I-87 where cellphone service currently is unavailable. A limited number of new cellphone towers will be built on private lands rather than in the Adirondack Forest Preserve.
- DEC Accepting Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants - Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance grants provide funding to rural fire departments to enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities.
April 2007
March 2007
- DEC and OPRHP Confirm IPN Fish Virus at Long Island Hatchery - The virus-infectious pancreatic necrosis-does not pose a health threat to humans but can kill vast amounts of young trout.
- New Facility Sets Standard for Monitoring NYC Air Pollution - The remodeled station at Queens College will use the latest equipment, provide extensive real-time data to the public and explore new monitoring technologies to look at new air pollutants.
- First Statewide Conference Held on Invasive Plants - DEC was one of the sponsors of this conference, which brought together partners from around the state to exchange information and continue efforts to combat the threat of invasive species.
- Management Plan Issued for Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area - The plan will help to protect and improve the diverse habitat and increase recreational opportunities in Zoar Valley.
- DEC Warns of Avalanche Danger in the Adirondacks - Winter visitors to the backcountry of the Adirondack Mountains should be aware of avalanches, which can occur in any situation where snow, slope and weather combine to create hazardous conditions.
- State Assists Maryland in Eliminating Pest that Kills Ash Trees - By assisting in locating trees infested with emerald ash borer and eliminating this destructive pest, representatives from DEC and Ag and Markets will gain valuable knowledge and experience to help protect New York's ash trees.
- DEC Announces Grants Totaling Nearly $11 Million to Improve Water Quality - Grants for water quality improvement projects will help reduce polluted runoff, improve water quality and restore habitat in New York State waters.
- DEC Schedules Meetings on State of Lake Ontario - The annual State of Lake Ontario public meetings will be held in Monroe, Niagara, and Oswego counties, providing an excellent opportunity for interested individuals to interact with the scientists who study Lake Ontario fisheries.
- The Conservationist's Current Issue Helps Make Armchair Travelers of All Its Readers - By subscribing to the Conservationist, you'll learn about things such as New York's oldest operating tugboat, the Urger, which promotes communities along the Erie Canal while teaching school children about the history, culture and heritage of the state's canal system.
- Draft UMPs Issued for Nicks Lake and Alger Island Campgrounds - A public meeting was held on February 15, and DEC will accept written comments from the public on both draft UMPs until March 15, 2007.
- 2006 Black Bear and Deer Harvests in New York State - Although bowhunters set a record in the Catskills, the black bear take for all ranges was below average for the second straight year, but a slightly increased deer take suggests that populations are growing slowly, and recent management actions are working.
February 2007
- DEC Issues Draft Unit Management Plan for Wilcox Lake Wild Forest - The public is encouraged to submit comments on the draft until March 2, 2007.
- Tests for DEC Lifeguard Positions Ongoing - One test has been held so far with several more are scheduled in order to fill positions at DEC camps this summer.
- DEC Accepting Applications for State Wildlife Grants - A series of statewide informational meetings are scheduled to run from February 12 through 23, and applications must be postmarked by March 31.
- DEC Urges People to Use Caution on the Ice - Thin ice conditions have been a problem across New York State.
- "How Cool is That?!" - Kids from underserved communities find answers to that question in the great outdoors through DEC's Diversity Program. Find out how in February's issue of Conservationist magazine.
- DEC Accepting Applications for 2007 Pheasant Release Programs - Applications for cooperative programs are due by March 15.
- 2007 Wildlife Rehabilitator and Falconry Exams Slated - The application deadline for the rehabilitator exam is Friday, March 23, and for the falconry exam is Friday, April 6.
- A Key Acquisition in the Long Island Pine Barrens is Announced - The 49.2-acre parcel is in the Central Long Island Core Preservation Area in Suffolk County and includes rare dwarf pitch pines.
- Rangers and Others Rescue Injured Hikers in the Adirondacks - Thanks to the skill and dedication of DEC Forest Rangers, firefighters, EMS personnel and State Police, two hikers injured in the High Peaks Wilderness Area survived a potentially deadly ordeal.
- DEC Aids Dolphin Rescue Effort on Long Island - Around January 11, a pod of dolphins became trapped in Northwest Creek near East Hampton and several DEC staff were among those enlisted to free them.
- DEC Announces $2.4 Million to Help with Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Disposal - Twenty-one municipalities will receive assistance with preventing the serious safety and environmental problems that can occur when household hazardous waste products are improperly disposed of.
- Public Meetings Announced on Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Fisheries Plan - Meetings will be held from February 12 through February 15.
- DEC Extends Public Comment Period on Key Global Warming Policy - Comments will be accepted until March 13, 2007.
- DEC Announces Brownfield Grants for Lewis, Herkimer and Jefferson Counties - The Town of Leyden, Village of Dolgeville, and the City of Watertown will receive $912,000 to clean up contaminated sites.
January 2007
- Legal Action Announced to Remediate Contamination at West Valley - The West Valley site once was home to the nation's first and only privately operated, commercial, nuclear fuel reprocessing facility, and New York State is seeking to clarify the U. S. Department of Energy's responsibility for certain aspects of the cleanup.
- Free Tree Seedlings for Schools and Sales to Public Begin - Beginning January 2, 2007, schools and the public should contact DEC's Saratoga Tree Nursery or their nearest regional forestry office to request free seedlings or to place orders respectively.
- DEC Issues Preliminary Draft RGGI Proposal for Public Review - A comment period and public meetings will be held on the proposal to implement this historic program.
- DEC Announces Brownfield Grants for Orange County - More than $825,000 has been designated for cleanup of contaminated sites in the City of Newburgh and the Town of Chester.
- More Than One Million Acres of Open Space Protected in State - A recent conservation easement on more than 50,000 acres in St. Lawrence County marks New York State's unprecedented effort to conserve habitat, farms and other lands for the public's enjoyment.
- State Environmental Board Approves New Regulation to Improve Air Quality - The new regulation will reduce mercury from coal-fired power plants.
- Second Season of Wild Turkey Studies Beginning - Banding wild turkeys and surveying winter flocks will begin again this month, and landowners are invited to participate.
- First Plug-in Hybrid Added to State Fleet - Conversion of all the state's hybrid vehicles to plug-ins, which can achieve 100 mpg, will help to reduce our dependence on imported energy.
- DEC Reminds State Residents of Hunting/Trapping Seasons - New Yorkers are urged to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions for themselves and their pets in areas where hunting and trapping are in season.
- Ribbon Cut for Hudson River Park's Chelsea North Section - The recent opening of the northern Chelsea section of the Hudson River Park brings us another step closer to reopening New York City's waterfront for everyone to enjoy.
- Informational Meetings on Fish Virus Scheduled - Viral hemorrhagic septicemia, or VHS, is a pathogen that affects fresh water fish, causing bleeding, fluid retention and erratic swimming patterns, but it is not a threat to humans.
- DEC Releases Hudson River Estuary Wildlife and Habitat Conservation Framework - The framework describes key plants, animals and habitats in counties bordering the Hudson River Estuary and identifies strategies for protecting them as the region's growth continues.
- DEC Presents Third Annual Environmental Excellence Awards - Six winners received New York State Environmental Excellence Awards for their outstanding efforts in environmental innovation, sustainability and partnerships.
- Get the Mercury Out-Another Informative and Timely Conservationist Article - In addition to extolling the state's abundant resources and recreational opportunities, Conservationist magazine informs readers about health concerns, such as chronic wasting disease and mercury poisoning, making it well worth subscribing.
- Agreement Announced to Support Development of Advanced Clean Coal Plant - The state will work with NRG Energy to promote construction of a new energy source.
- DEC Announces Funding to Develop New Boat Launching Site on Lake Champlain - The boat launching facility is part of a larger scale waterfront revitalization project in the City of Plattsburgh and should be available for use during the 2008 boating season.
- State Awards More Than 25 Million for Development of Cellulosic Ethanol Facilities - Two projects will build upon ongoing research at several New York universities and accelerate efforts to make cellulosic ethanol a viable energy option for commercial use.
- DEC Announces Results of 2006 Bald Eagle Breeding Season - Biologists attribute the record population to the mild and dry weather that prevailed when eagles were laying and hatching eggs, as well as to state and federal initiatives to protect this species.
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