DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION Mission:

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1,1970 to combine in a single agency all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment.
Mission: “To conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being.”
DEC’s goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Site Links:

Outdoor Activities

Your guide to outdoor fun in New York
http://www.dec.ny.gov/62.html

Education

DEC has environmental education programs and resources that will help everyone become a better steward of the environment. https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/education

 Permits and Licenses

Have you ever wondered why you need a license to do some of your favorite outdoor activities? Fishing and hunting, as well as other outdoor sports and recreation, require careful management to strike a balance between supply and demand. https://dec.ny.gov/regulatory/permits-licenses

Animals, Plants, Aquatic Life

One of DEC’s main responsibilities is to manage and protect New York State’s wild animal and plant populations. To do this, DEC conserves crucial habitats and sets regulations and policies that protect plant and animal resources.  https://dec.ny.gov/nature 

Nuisance & Invasive Species

While people usually enjoy having wildlife around, problems sometimes arise when the activities of people and wildlife clash. https://dec.ny.gov/nature/invasive-species

Dam Safety

The Department is concerned with the protection of the health, safety and welfare of the people of the State of New York and the conservation and protection of its natural resources. Water stored behind a dam represents potential energy which can create a hazard to life and property located downstream of a dam. In order for a dam to safely fulfill its intended function, it must be constructed, operated and maintained properly.  https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quantity/dam-safety-coastal-flood-protection/dam-safety