About DEC

From this page you can find information about the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as an organization: its structure, management and policies, history, contacts, jobs and volunteer opportunities.

How DEC is Organized

The department and its programs are authorized and governed by state Environmental Conservation Law, with some programs also governed by federal law. Each program follows regulations codified in 6 New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (6NYCRR).

DEC is headed by a Commissioner, who is assisted by Executive Managers (PDF, 21 kb). Program divisions are led by Division Directors and organized into bureaus that carry out the functions established by state law.

Working from regional offices across the state and a central office in Albany, some 3,500 DEC staff pursue scientific assessment and vigorous action to protect and enhance New York's environment and natural resources. Each regional office serves communities within its boundaries.

Citizens sometimes help in DEC's work without compensation, either as participants in advisory groups, or as volunteers on important projects, such as environmental education.

Contacting DEC

The DEC regional office that serves your county is your first point of contact for all issues, including: obtaining and renewing DEC permits; reporting environmental or natural resource problems; finding the best places to hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors, or reaching any DEC program for any reason.

More about About DEC:

Contact Us - Program, regional directories; reporting problems; obtaining documents; 800 numbers
Divisions and Regions - Links to pages describing DEC's programs and regional offices
Offices and Directions - Central and regional office addresses and driving directions
Commissioner - Welcome to the web site of New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation
Boards and Commissions - Independent advisory groups; professional groups in which DEC participates
Using the DEC Website - Background and policies regarding DEC's web content and applications

Employment - There are many careers available in the environmental field, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers exciting opportunities for qualified individuals looking to make a difference in environmental protection and natural resource management.