Environment

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced plans this week to release more than 6,100 pheasants ahead of the fall hunting season opener in Western New York. The regular pheasant season for DEC ... more

Lyme disease cases in Ontario County have skyrocketed from 33 in 2021 to nearly 300 this year — and officials say deer are a big reason why, according to the Democrat and Chronicle. City leaders ... more

Water levels on Seneca Lake have dipped well below summer targets, sparking concerns for boaters, shoreline property owners, and environmental stewards. This week’s lake reading came in at 445.34 feet — about six inches lower ... more

A massive, years-long cleanup of the former Philips Lighting plant in Bath has steadily progressed, with crews removing old infrastructure, contaminated soils, and installing long-term systems to protect neighbors and the environment. The site has ... more

New York officials have released draft guidelines for funding habitat restoration projects under the state’s $4.2 billion environmental bond act. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and State Parks announced the eligibility rules this week, ... more

The Finger Lakes Land Trust has launched a major conservation initiative aimed at protecting one of the region’s most ecologically important and scenic landscapes — the 114,000-acre corridor from Hemlock Lake to the High Tor ... more

More than 200 people packed a hearing in Auburn as residents grilled developers over a proposed wind farm in Cayuga County, according to The Citizen. The Agricola Wind Project would install up to 24 turbines ... more

Four harmful algal blooms popped up on Seneca Lake this past week — all on August 22 — but cooler, rainy weather has helped hold new ones back. Heading into Labor Day weekend, lake lovers ... more

Spotted lanternflies are swarming across more than half of New York’s counties, alarming grape growers and state officials, according to the Times Union. The invasive bugs—originally from Asia—can damage over 120 plant species, especially grapevines ... more

A major fish kill in a Cattaraugus County creek has prompted state officials to shut down part of a local cheese facility. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) says Great Lakes Cheese ... more

State officials are urging the public to avoid Ischua Creek in Cattaraugus County following reports of a possible organic waste discharge and a large die-off of fish and wildlife. The New York State Department of ... more

The Finger Lakes Land Trust is expanding its Hemlock to High Tor greenbelt with several new land deals aimed at protecting forests, wildlife, and water quality. The group just announced the acquisition of over 200 ... more

New York’s clean energy workforce just got a boost with the launch of PowerUp2030 — a new state program aimed at helping small and diverse businesses grow in the fast-changing energy sector. Governor Kathy Hochul ... more

When Nick Brown talks about solar power, he isn't focused on panels, turbines, or megawatts. He's focused on people, especially in Rochester, where high energy costs and limited access to the trades keep many families ... more

One harmful algal bloom was reported on Seneca Lake for the week of August 15–21. Cool temperatures and breezy conditions helped keep more blooms from forming. Officials warn that blooms can pop up quickly as ... more

Climate advocates are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to ramp up New York’s clean energy plans by committing to 15 gigawatts of publicly owned renewable energy by 2030. The demand came during two packed virtual public ... more

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is asking for public feedback on a draft plan that could shape outdoor recreation across more than 38,000 acres in Hamilton County. The plan covers the Speculator ... more

The Finger Lakes Region is a hidden gem when it comes to sustainable living. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, we’re witnessing a surge in eco-conscious practices that not only benefit the environment ... more

With the school year just days away, a Seneca County citizens group is calling on state leaders to stop a potential expansion of New York’s largest landfill—and to enforce a local law that would close ... more