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News and Announcements

View of expansive forest in the Hudson Highlands

NYSDEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the completion of two conservation plans identifying important connections in nature that support wildlife and people. The Green Corridors Plan for the Eastern New York…

A hiker looks out over the Hudson River from the Anthony's Nose lookout - by L Heady

Data released by the federal government shows that thousands of people moved into the Hudson Valley during the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. In fact, pandemic-driven migration throughout the United States resulted…

A group of volunteers hold a sign "Quassaick Creek Watershed Alliance" while standing in front of an area recently planted with small trees

Do you own or manage land along a stream? You can apply for free native plants to help reduce erosion and improve habitat along your stream.…

Two Town of Wawarsing officials review a map at town hall. Photo by L. Heady

NYSDEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the latest round of communities to achieve certification as part of New York State's Climate Smart Communities program, which…

Distant view of Shawangunk Ridge with meadow in the foreground and wildflowers in bloom.

Like many towns in the Hudson Valley, Gardiner is known for its stunning vistas and scenic environment. With more and more people moving into Ulster County, Gardiner residents are growing increasingly concerned…

Members of the Gardiner CPP committee stand in front of the Gardiner town hall.

Professional community planners are undersung heroes. They keep saving us from  ourselves, stepping in before it’s too late to keep our beloved cities and towns from ruination by unchecked dollar-driven…

View of Rondout Creek, with clouds reflecting in water and views of Fall foliage and boats. By L Heady

The City of Kingston is preparing a Community Preservation Plan (CPP), which will guide future investments in the city’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. The CPP can identify priorities for resource…

Autumn view of an emergent marsh with fall foliage in the background

NYSDEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the selection of two municipalities to receive technical assistance from DEC staff and partners to advance local conservation priorities. Through a competitive application…

Front of Town Hall in Rhinebeck, NY, a brick building with flagpole in front.

Town Board members have approved a report meant to be used as a land planning tool and which also makes several recommendations to address climate change. Supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia said that the 176-page…

Stream under leafy branches. Photo courtesy Town of Montgomery CAC.

The Montgomery Town Board heard from members of its Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) and the general public last week which sought to protect two critical watersheds within its boundaries.

Jefferson-blue spotted salamander in volunteer hands - by Joanna Lentini

Each spring as the ground begins to thaw, an epic migration unfolds in New York’s Hudson River estuary watershed. Amphibians emerge from their winter shelters and head for woodland breeding pools. Some of these…

Town of Gardiner volunteers gather around a map on a table. Photo by Nate Nardi-Cyrus

NYSDEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced $1.14 million in competitive grant funding is now available to help communities in the Hudson River Estuary watershed increase resiliency to flooding, protect water quality…