Environment DEC
Welcome to Environment DEC, DEC's online newsletter. Each issue presents news about New York State's environment, natural resources and DEC's environmental quality programs. Look for a new Environment DEC at the beginning of each month. Subscribe to our free e-mail notification, and you will be notified when each new issue becomes available.
July 2009
Videos highlighting individual species, such as the Peregrine falcon, bluebirds or snapping turtles can be seen on DEC TVDEC TV Debuts
The new online video player provides access to videos on outdoor recreation, nature, wildlife and environmental stewardship.
Protecting natural resource habitat is a major focus of the plan2009 Open Space Plan
The plan includes recommendations on how the state and local governments can protect and enhance riparian, coastal and floodplain areas and forests, while improving wildlife habitat and creating new outdoor recreational opportunities.
This destructive pest has caused significant damage to ash trees in neighboring statesDamaging Invasive Beetles Found in New York State
The emerald ash borer was recently discovered in Cattaraugus County--the first known sighting of this destructive species in New York State.
Many wastewater treatment plants will receive a much needed upgradeFunds for Clean-Water Infrastructure
Funded projects are expected to create about 1,300 jobs statewide, many in communities that have been particularly affected by the recession.
Oceans are a vital part of our ecosystemGovernors Sign Historic Pact to Protect Atlantic Ocean
The agreement will create structure for mid-Atlantic states to collaborate on offshore renewable energy and other pressing ocean issues.
Paying tribute to the man who envisioned a proactive forest protection programDEC Observes Anniversary of "Father" of Forest Rangers
Through the advocacy of William F. Fox, New York State's Superintendent of Forests in 1891, fire patrols were modernized and ultimately led to the creation of forest rangers.
There are easy ways for repair shops to protect workers and the environmentDEC Offers Help for Auto Body Shops
New environmental compliance guides for auto body shops will help owners understand and comply with environmental laws.
Approximately 300,000 tons of limestone will be processed annuallyComments Sought on Lewis County Quarry Project
Written statements on the proposed 78-acre limestone mine in Clayville, New York must be received by the close of business on July 10, 2009
Black bears have become more common in certain regions of NYSTips for Preventing Human Encounters with Black Bears
During the past decade, bear populations have been increasing in number and expanding in distribution, making human encounters with them more frequent.
This mountain biking trail is the first on Adirondack forest preserve landsMulti-Use Flume Trail System Opens
This is a great example of how careful planning and cooperation among diverse interests can result in fun and sustainable opportunities even in wild forest areas.
Lake sturgeon have sharp, scaly plates on their back- photo by Wayne Davis USEPAPossession of Lake Sturgeon in NY Prohibited
Lake sturgeon is a threatened species in New York State and must be released immediately if caught.PREVIOUS ISSUE: June 2009
- Communities Across the State Pledge to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions - More than 30 municipalities are taking part in Climate Smart Communities, a state program that encourages local governments to reduce carbon emissions.
- DEC Plan Upgrades Oversight of More Than 5,000 Dams - Revised safety proposals allow private dam owners flexibility while improving public safeguards.
- DEC Revises Campground Closure Plan - Four of the six facilities originally scheduled to close will now open with a shortened season instead. However, one additional campground will close.
- DEC Funding Available for Grassland Protection Program - Grants are available to eligible private landowners to promote bird habitats.
- DEC Confirms Presence of Didymo in Esopus Creek - The aquatic algae was discovered in one of the most popular recreational waterways in the Catskills region.
- Obama Administration Revokes Rule That Would Have Weakened Endangered Species Protections - DEC Commissioner Grannis applauded the decision by the departments of Commerce and the Interior to reverse the rule imposed during the waning days of the Bush Administration.
- River Day 2009 to Celebrate the Quadricentennial of Hudson's Historic Voyage - Historic vessels and modern-day boats will travel the Hudson River, starting from New York Harbor on June 6 and arriving in Albany on June 13.
- Author Brings His "No Child Left Inside" Campaign to the Adirondacks - Richard Louv, best-selling author of, "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Youth from Nature Deficit Disorder," exchanged ideas about how to tear kids away from computers and video games and get them out into the natural world during a two-day series of events.
- Miscellaneous News Items - Workshop Focuses on Management of Runoff and Sewer Overflows Using "Green" Methods; DEC's "Green" Computer Equipment Purchasing Program is Honored by EPA, and If You Care, Leave Them There...DEC's annual reminder to leave young wildlife that appear abandoned alone.
