News and Announcements
DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the adoption of regulations updating the list of endangered, threatened, and special concern species of fish, a recently discovered species of frog (Atlantic…
There are many unknowns concerning forest migration, the process of tree species moving as they seek climatic zones similar to what they’ve known for millennia. Some researchers the Times Union spoke with said…
The City of Rensselaer is embarking on a new initiative to protect its vital waterways with assistance from the NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Program and Cornell University. The city was award a technical assistance…
DEC announced that warmer temperatures and rain have spurred the start of annual migrations of vernal pool breeding amphibians like frogs and salamanders. Throughout the Hudson Valley, Amphibian Migrations and…
In a bold step toward environmental sustainability and climate resilience, the town of Bethlehem is establishing itself as a leader in open space conservation. Over the past seven years, the town has protected 693…
Open Space Institute has closed on the purchase of 91.6 acres of former farmland and forested property, 15 of which are set aside for the development of affordable housing. The property is planned for…
Cornell University and the NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Program are offering a free technical assistance opportunity for a community interested in using conservation overlay zoning to conserve priority lands and…
DEC announced $15 million is available through the new Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant Program to expand, restore, and create urban forested natural areas. The funding helps fulfill the 2024 State of the…
DEC announced proposed changes to the regulations for Real Property Tax Law Section 480a to lessen the administrative burdens on participating forest landowners while improving sustainability practices.
The draft list of New York's potential Species of Greatest Conservation Need and draft revised Species Status Assessments for the 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan are now available for public review and comment…
Highlights from the Conservation and Land Use Team's work in 2024 include diverse partnerships that are addressing emerging issues, municipal planning and policy outcomes that incorporate biodiversity priorities,…
Conserved properties in Stanford and Pleasant Valley will preserve habitats for species of greatest conservation need, high priority forests, and ecological connectivity. Winnakee purchased 153.2 acres in Stanford…