NY DEC Press Releases

DEC Announces Start of Trout Fishing Season

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that the spring trout fishing season will begin on April 1, 2026. The DEC will stock over 1.7 million trout across the state, though some brown trout may be shorter than average due to drought conditions impacting a hatchery.

NY Archery Tournament Names 2026 Winners

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced the winners of the 2026 National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP®) state tournament. The event hosted 560 students from 43 schools, with top performers qualifying for the national competition.

DEC Forest Rangers Report Statewide Actions

The NY DEC released a weekly review detailing actions by Forest Rangers across the state. The report highlights search and rescue missions, wildfire responses, and law enforcement activities, including specific incidents of illegal dumping and wilderness rescues in March 2026. The document also provides statistics from 2025, noting 362 search and rescue missions and 202 illegal wildfires extinguished.

DEC Lifts Drought Watch for Upstate Regions

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that all upstate drought regions have returned to 'Normal' status, lifting the 'Drought Watch'. Nassau and Suffolk counties remain in a Drought Watch. The DEC continues to encourage water conservation measures statewide.

DEC Announces Start of Prescribed Fire Season

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the start of its prescribed fire season, which will take place on DEC-managed lands from March 26 through early May. These controlled burns are a land management tool used to improve habitats, reduce wildfire risk, and eliminate invasive species.

DEC and Orange County Water Authority Acquire Land for Newburgh Water Supply

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Orange County Water Authority (OCWA) announced the acquisition of a 13.5-acre conservation easement to protect the City of Newburgh's drinking water supply. Funding was provided through DEC's Water Quality Improvement Project Program.

NY DEC 2025 Hunting Safety Statistics

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has released its 2025 hunting safety statistics, reporting the safest season on record with seven hunting-related shooting incidents (HRSI) and no fatalities. The report also noted nine falls from tree stands, including one fatality, and emphasized the importance of safety protocols for both HRSI and elevated hunting incidents.

DEC, Audubon, Ducks Unlimited Start Wetland Enhancement Project

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in partnership with the National Audubon Society and Ducks Unlimited, has begun a 50-acre wetland enhancement project at Lakeview Wildlife Management Area. This initiative aims to improve habitat for waterfowl, marsh birds, and fish, while also enhancing recreational opportunities.

2025 Bear Harvest Estimates

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced an estimated 1,759 black bears were harvested during the 2025-26 hunting seasons. This represents the second-highest statewide harvest since 1955 and a record for the Southern Zone, reflecting the growth of New York's bear population and successful wildlife management efforts.

NY DEC Awards Grants for Hudson River Water Quality Projects

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has awarded $964,468 in grants to 14 projects focused on protecting water quality and enhancing environmental education along the Hudson River Estuary. The funding, part of the Hudson River Estuary Grants Program, will support local stewardship planning and initiatives in communities, with a significant portion directed towards disadvantaged areas.