NY DEC Press Releases

NY DEC Awards Over $677,000 in Smart Growth Grants

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has awarded over $677,000 in Smart Growth grants to seven projects in the Catskill region. These grants will support affordable housing, recreational access, and economic growth initiatives compatible with environmental protection.

DEC and Team Rubicon Improve Braddock Bay Trails

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Team Rubicon are collaborating to remove hazardous trees and improve trail systems at Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area. Trail closures are scheduled for March 21 and March 28, 2026, to facilitate this work.

DEC Forest Rangers - Week in Review

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) released a weekly update on Forest Ranger activities. The report details 362 search and rescue missions, 202 wildfires extinguished, and over 1,100 arrests and tickets issued in 2025. It also highlights recent public outreach and training exercises.

NY Sues Harbourview Realty to Stop Pollution Discharges

New York State agencies have filed a lawsuit against Harbourview Realty LLC to halt alleged illegal pollution discharges into Hempstead Bay. The suit seeks injunctive relief to stop the unpermitted discharges and civil penalties for violations of the Clean Water Act.

DEC Announces 2026 I BIRD NY Challenge

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the 2026 I BIRD NY Challenge, encouraging residents to identify birds from March 1 to November 1, 2026. Participants who identify 10 species and submit a challenge sheet by November 18, 2026, will receive a patch and certificate, with opportunities to win prizes.

DEC Forest Rangers Report on Rescues and Wildfires

New York State DEC Forest Rangers reported on their activities in 2025, including 362 search and rescue missions and 202 wildfires. The report also details specific rescue incidents from February 2026, highlighting the rangers' role in public safety and law enforcement.

DEC Forest Rangers - 2025 Actions and Deployments

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) released a review of Forest Ranger actions in 2025, detailing 362 search and rescue missions, 2025 wildfires, and over 1,100 arrests and tickets. The report also highlights deployments to other states and specific rescue incidents.

DEC Environmental Justice Listening Session Announced

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced an environmental justice listening session to be held in Plattsburgh on March 11, 2026. This session is part of a series aimed at enhancing engagement with communities facing environmental justice concerns and prioritizing future outreach efforts.

DEC Conducts Prescribed Fire at Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced it will conduct a prescribed burn at Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area. The burn, planned for February 27, 2026, aims to improve wetland habitat by controlling invasive Phragmites.

DEC Environmental Justice Listening Session in Elmira

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced an environmental justice listening session in Elmira on March 17, 2026. This session is part of an ongoing series to enhance engagement with communities with environmental justice concerns and to prioritize future outreach efforts.