Latest news with #NewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation
CBS News
3 days ago
- CBS News
New York hiking trail closed for over a month due to moose exhibiting "unusual behaviors"
A popular hiking trail in New York's Adirondack Mountains has been closed for more than a month due to a bull moose exhibiting "unusual behaviors," state officials said. The moose has been observed on or near the Goodman Mountain trail in the Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest in northeastern New York. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation first announced the temporary closure of the trail on June 6, and the agency gave an update recently. The moose "continues to demonstrate unusual behaviors," DEC said in a news release on July 11. "It is suspected that this moose may have an underlying illness influencing behavior as it continues to remain on or near the trail and is not responsive to attempts to move it off the trail." DEC wildlife staff were able to get near the moose on a recent visit to observe its behavior and condition, the department said Friday, but further information about a possible illness was not known. The department is also monitoring the animal with three trail cameras. The trail will remain closed until the agency determines it is safe. "Moose are large animals, and while no signs of aggression have been observed, moose can be dangerous if approached too closely," the department said. Signage about the trail's closure is posted at trailhead and access points.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Yahoo
Is a mountain lion really roaming the streets in this upstate NY city? What we know now
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is investigating after a viral video showing what appears to be a large wild cat roaming a Rochester, New York, neighborhood took many by surprise this week. Here's the latest on whether a large cat is actually loose in the city — and what authorities are doing about it. According to DEC officials, based on the doorbell camera video and measurements taken at the scene Thursday, the animal could possibly be a cougar (also known as a mountain lion) — if the footage hasn't been altered. 'If this is actually a cougar, given the location within city limits, it is most likely not a wild cat that arrived to the region on its own, but rather a cat that was previously captive, possibly as an illegal pet,' DEC officials said Thursday. DEC only investigates reports that include physical evidence such as tracks, droppings (scat), fur, or photographs. If there is no such evidence, the report is filed but cannot be verified. At about 4 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, a Ring security camera captured a large animal walking through a yard near East Main Street and Culver Road. The video, shared by resident Stephany Baez, quickly went viral — with over 250,000 views and 1,100 shares on Facebook within hours. 'It doesn't look like a normal cat,' Baez wrote in her post. 'It is something scary and I don't want anyone to get hurt.' DEC officials visited the location on Thursday, July 10, and took measurements and photos that suggest the animal could be a large cat. However, a search of the surrounding neighborhood turned up no tracks, scat, fur, or other physical clues. Following the video's release, Rochester Police received several 911 calls reporting similar sightings across the city, according to Lt. Anthony DelVecchio. But so far, no additional images or physical evidence have been found. 'None of these reports have been substantiated,' DelVecchio said. 'Until the validity of the original video can be confirmed, RPD urges the public to remain vigilant. If anyone observes a large wild animal, they are advised to go indoors immediately and call 911.' According to the DEC, there is no native, self-sustaining population of (also called cougars or eastern cougars) in New York. They once roamed the state — especially the Adirondacks — but were wiped out by the early 1900s due to habitat loss, hunting, and food scarcity. Occasional sightings in recent decades have typically involved: Captive animals that escaped or were released Mistaken identity (bobcats, coyotes, large domestic cats, or even deer) One confirmed wild cougar that passed through from South Dakota during a 1,800-mile migration According to the DEC, adult cougars are: Up to 8 feet long (nose to tail) About 3 feet tall at the shoulder Around 140 pounds on average They have: Long, slender bodies Short, rounded ears Brownish-red to light brown fur Creamy white underbellies Black markings on the tip of the tail, ears, and base of the whiskers DEC will only investigate if there's physical evidence or a confirmed escape of a captive animal. If you think you've spotted a mountain lion: Look for signs: tracks, scat, or fur Take photos of the animal and any physical evidence — only if safe to do so Keep your distance: Back away slowly and treat it like any dangerous wild animal or unknown dog Report sightings to law enforcement or DEC officials immediately. If you think you've seen a cougar in western New York: Weekdays: Contact the DEC's regional wildlife office at (585) 226-5380 or email r8wildlife@ After-hours or weekends: Call the DEC Environmental Conservation Officer dispatch at 844-332-3267 This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Video may show captive mountain lion loose in Rochester NY, DEC says
CTV News
16-06-2025
- Science
- CTV News
Edmonton keeping eye out for ‘relentless killer' in tree canopy
In this Oct. 26, 2011 file photo, forester Jeff Wiegert, of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, removes emerald ash borer larvae from an ash tree at Esopus Bend Nature Preserve in Saugerties, N.Y. There are reports of a potential emerald ash borer beetle infestation in the Concord, N.H.-area. If the reports are confirmed, state officials will need to set up a quarantine to ensure infested ash trees, branches, logs, and firewood are contained. (AP Photo/Mike Groll, File)
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Champlain Area Trails seeks land conservation manager
WESTPORT — Champlain Area Trails recently announced a $100,000 grant from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund to establish a new permanent position of land conservation manager. This role will spearhead land protection efforts throughout New York's Champlain Valley, advancing CATS's mission to maintain trails to connect people with nature and ensure long-term access to outdoor recreation, all promoting economic vitality in New York's Champlain Valley. 'This role strengthens our commitment to protecting critical lands, building partnerships with private landowners, and creating lasting connections for future generations,' Arin Burdo, executive director of CATS, said. 'The land conservation manager will be pivotal in expanding our ability to preserve the natural beauty of our region.' In addition to general land conservation initiatives, the land conservation manager will focus on implementing critical current projects, including: — A New York State Smart Growth grant focused on converting temporary trail agreements into permanent trail easements, ensuring lasting public access to these natural spaces. — The acquisition of the Twin Valleys Outdoor Education Center, which will expand public opportunities for outdoor education, community engagement and environmental stewardship. 'This new position allows us to take bold steps in advancing our conservation mission,' Burdo said. 'We're excited to grow our team and strengthen our efforts to protect and share the beautiful landscapes of the Champlain Valley with everyone.' This new position, funded through a grant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, will focus on major ongoing conservation projects, identify future opportunities and collaborate with local landowners, communities and conservation partners. The land conservation manager will also play a role in securing grants and donations to support future projects. 'We are grateful to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Land Trust Alliance for their support,' Burdo said. 'Their commitment helps ensure that everyone has the chance to experience the beauty and wonder of the Champlain Valley.' The Land Conservation project is supported with funding from the New York State Conservation Partnership Program and New York's Environmental Protection Fund. The NYSCPP is administered by the Land Trust Alliance, in coordination with the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Visit for more information about the land conservation manager position or to apply by the July 6 deadline.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DEC announces $100M fish hatchery modernization effort
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton recently announced the launch of a nation-leading $100 million freshwater fish hatchery modernization plan. The funding supports the first of three phases of modernization projects for 12 hatcheries operated by DEC across the state. The hatcheries are integral to effective fisheries management and conservation, and contribute up to $5 billion in economic benefits provided by New York's recreational freshwater fishing industry. 'DEC's fish hatchery system serves as the backbone for the management and restoration of our freshwater fisheries,' Lefton said. 'Today's launch of the hatchery modernization plan will further strengthen New York State's commitment to the angling community and the continued stewardship of our fisheries resources far into the future.' First established in 1864, New York's fish hatchery system is the oldest in North America. The DEC operates 12 hatcheries that annually produce up to 850,000 pounds of fish that are stocked into more than 1,200 waterbodies for recreational and restoration purposes. The average age of DEC's hatcheries is 93 years and the integrity of many buildings, water supply assets, and fish-rearing structures are at risk. In recent years some of the most crucial needs have been addressed with a steady flow of DEC capital funding, but more extensive work is needed to sustain and improve operations to truly modernize the hatchery system for the future. The historic $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 dedicated up to $75 million for hatchery improvements as part of the $650 million specified for improving access to and protecting nature. This funding, combined with funding from New York Works and other capital funds, provides a solid foundation for creating a modern hatchery system that is technologically advanced, more efficient, adaptable, and environmentally responsible. The DEC will use Bond Act monies and capital funds to leverage other state and federal funding to modernize the hatchery system in multiple phases over the next 10 years. Improvements center on employing contemporary culture technologies to maximize fish production and ensuring greater sustainability by using the best technology available to reduce energy use and minimize the facilities' carbon footprint. DEC will implement its modernization plan in three phases, with Phase 1 beginning immediately. Highlights of Phase 1 include: • Covering the rearing ponds to exclude predators, reduce sunlight, and provide a surface for a photovoltaic system at the Caledonia Hatchery • Refurbishing ponds at the South Otselic Hatchery for increased walleye production • Overhauling the water supply system at the Salmon River Hatchery • Building a new hatch house at Chateaugay Hatchery • Replacing the existing hatchery at Randolph with a brand-new facility 'This plan not only ensures the continued health and sustainability of our state's freshwater fisheries but also preserves critical recreational and economic opportunities for future generations. New York's fish hatchery system is a vital part of our state's natural heritage and supports recreational fishing that benefits local communities, small businesses, and tourism across the state,' New York State Conservation Council President Dr. Keith Tidball said. 'The hatcheries are not just facilities — they are centers of fisheries conservation, education, and economic vitality.' Visit the DEC website for more information about the fish hatchery system. Stocking information, along with fishing regulations, maps, and access information is also available in 'The Tackle Box' feature of the DEC 'HuntFishNY' smartphone app. Other features include driving directions to state boat launch sites and an offline feature that allows a user to access information when cell coverage isn't available.
