October 2023 EA E-News Update

 

Help expand stream protections in New York State! Request Governor Hochul sign A4601-A/S1725-A to include Class C streams under NYSDEC’s Protection of Waters Program.

Streams are the lifeblood of rivers, watersheds, and community drinking water sources. In New York State, the ‘best use’ of a stream determines its classification or level of protection. Currently, Class C streams, which have a designated best use of fishing, fish propagation, and non-contact recreation, such as kayaking, are not protected under the New York State Department of Conservation’s Protection of Waters Program. Earlier this year, a bill to add Class C streams under the Protection of Waters Program passed the New York State Assembly and Senate and currently awaits the Governor’s signature. 

Join us in standing up for stream protection – call Governor Hochul at (518) 474-8390 and ask her to sign A4601-A/S1725-A and protect Class C streams under NYSDEC’s Protection of Waters Program.

 

Restoration Advisory Board Meeting + Community Poster Board Session

WHEN: 5pm-9pm, Wednesday, October 25, 2023

WHERE: Newburgh Armory Unity Center (321 S William St, Newburgh, NY 12550 – map). The poster session will take place from 5-7pm, followed by the RAB meeting at 7pm.

 

For decades, firefighting foam runoff Stewart Air National Guard Base flowed into the City of Newburgh’s drinking water supply, Washington Lake with toxic PFOA. PFAS is no longer used in firefighting foams, and environmental cleanup is being studied. The base also has a Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) which provides advice to the New York Air National Guard, regulators, and other government agencies on environmental clean-up activities and community involvement. To learn more about the City of Newburgh’s drinking water contamination, attend the upcoming Restoration Advisory Board Meeting and Poster Session on Wednesday, October 25 at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center (321 S William St, Newburgh, NY 12550 – map). The poster session will take place from 5-7pm, followed by the RAB meeting at 7pm. Learn more about the City of Newburgh’s drinking water contamination.