DEC Announces Summer 2017 Oak Wilt Management Actions in New York State

State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced plans to manage the spread of the invasive species that causes oak wilt disease and confirmed that the 15 trees infected by oak wilt in New York during 2016 have been removed. DEC is continuing to monitor for additional infection sites in cooperation with state and local partners, including the Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic (PDDC) at Cornell University, and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (DAM).

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Conservation collaboration in the Catskills

A region as large and diverse as the Catskills can only thrive when organizations collaborate toward common goals. Since 1969, the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development has worked with many partners to preserve scenic lands that sustain our vibrant communities. We understand that people in the Catskills prosper within natural environments that attract visitors and outdoor enthusiasts to drive the economy.

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DEC Reminds 'Blue Hole' Visitors to Follow Regulations and Consider Nearby Alternatives

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today is reminding visitors to the overused Blue Hole swimming area to follow regulations for the Blue Hole and Peekamoose Valley in the town of Denning, Ulster County. The regulations increase public safety and reduce impacts to the swimming area located on Rondout Creek in the Sundown Wild Forest. This unique natural resource is at risk from overuse due to its popularity. The area is in the New York City drinking water watershed.

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U.S. – India Exchange comes to Mount Tremper and the Catskill Interpretive Center

April 11, 2017: A delegation of senior level Forest Supervisors from India’s state agencies will be in Mount Tremper to give a presentation on forest management and water for drinking, agriculture and hydro-power in India. The presentation will be on Wednesday, April 26, at 6:30 PM at the Catskill Interpretive Center—5096 Route 28, Mount Tremper, New York. This special presentation is open to the public, free of charge and anyone who is interested in this unique perspective on forest lands and public water supply in India is encouraged to attend.

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