The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has introduced an updated version of New York’s Great Lakes Action Agenda (GLAA) 2023. This strategic plan aims to guide restoration and conservation efforts and foster sustainable communities in New York’s Great Lakes region, which spans over 40 percent of the state’s land area. The updated GLAA focuses on preserving water quality, enhancing habitats for wildlife, managing invasive species, promoting sustainability, and bolstering community resilience to climate change.
DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos praised the GLAA for strengthening collaborative relationships between federal, state, and local partners. The updated agenda also incorporates new actions to protect drinking water sources, address emerging contaminants, and implement natural and nature-based resilience measures. It further emphasizes engaging diverse stakeholders and disadvantaged communities. The agenda, which includes new metrics to evaluate progress, can be accessed on the DEC website.
The GLAA is funded by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), supported by the highest level of funding in the program’s history of $400 million. In conjunction with the updated GLAA’s release, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is developing a fourth federal action plan for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The DEC’s Great Lakes Program will also host public engagement workshops to foster additional partnerships and support local priorities.
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