Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation this week that sets the goal to support and contribute to national efforts to conserve at least 30 percent of U.S. land and water by 2030. This legislation will promote biodiversity and preserve New York’s wildlife, forests, and clean water sources, which are all essential to New York’s health and economy.
“New Yorkers rely on our clean water for recreation, forests to provide wildlife habitats, and the outdoor spaces for jobs and adventures,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “It’s more important than ever to safeguard these resources and setting the goal to conserve 30 percent of public land by 2030 will ensure we’re protecting our State for future generations.”
Legislation S.6191A/A.5390B establishes the goal and requires the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to develop strategies and a methodology to achieve the goal while collaborating with a broad group of stakeholders.
“As the state of New York joins with its national and international colleagues to advance this goal, DEC looks forward to working with the public and our partners to implement the critical work ahead and build upon our legacy of environmental protection for the benefit of future generations,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said.
The state says these efforts will build on the New York’s existing conservation efforts.
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