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DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis

DEC Budget Testimony to the NYS Legislature

Commissioner Grannis recently provided testimony to the Legislature regarding DEC's budget priorities, citing the continued commitment to advancing a comprehensive and progressive environmental agenda.

Upper Preston Pond, Newcomb, NY

DRAFT 2009 Open Space Conservation Plan

The DRAFT 2009 Open Space Conservation Plan is now available for public comment. The Plan demonstrates how open space conservation can combat climate change, foster green, healthy communities, connect people to nature and recreation, and conserve our common outdoor heritage.

plastic bags

New Law Requires Retailers to Collect and Recycle Plastic Bags

This bill will make it convenient and easy for residents across the state to recycle plastic bags, thereby saving landfill space, reducing litter and decreasing our dependence on foreign oil.

award winner

Winners of 2008 Environmental Excellence Awards Announced

Six winners were selected from more than 40 candidates who addressed environmental challenges by using innovative and environmentally sustainable practices or creative partnerships.

Campers at Camp Colby

DEC Summer Camps to Open Registration Soon

DEC's summer camps change kids' lives. At DEC's summer residential camps, youth are immersed in conservation education, participating in fun activities and games that teach the wise use of natural resources.

public meeting

DEC Launches New Online Events Calendar

This new online tool will help New Yorkers find information on public meetings, educational programs, and other events sponsored by DEC.

nursery manager inspecting seedlings

Saratoga Tree Nursery Ordering Information

DEC through the Saratoga Tree Nursery encourages planting of trees and shrubs by providing low cost, quality stock to the public. Orders for tree seedlings will be accepted from January 5 through March 31. Please see the brochure and order form for details.

Adirondack stream

Acid Rain Harms Streams in Western Adirondacks

A new scientific study of streams in the western region of the Adirondack Mountains has found that two-thirds of them have been harmed by acid rain produced by the burning of fossil fuels. This equates to 450 miles of acidified streams. The western Adirondacks receive some of the highest levels of acidic deposition in the United States.

chemical products

DEC Focuses on Chemicals Policy

Governments, businesses and academia are implementing a number of innovative policy approaches to help manage chemical use in manufacturing and products that can significantly affect public health and our environment.

car transporting firewood

Permanent Firewood Regulation Proposed to Prevent the Spread of Tree-killing Insects and Diseases

An emergency regulation currently in effect prohibits the transport of firewood more than 50 miles. A proposed regulation would make this ban permanent. Public hearings on this regulation will be held on January 14 and 20 and comments will be accepted through February 8.