New Hires, Profiles, and Reminders 

Welcome Dana

We are pleased to announce that Dana McClure has joined the Office of Environmental Justice as our new Environmental Program Specialist. Dana brings with her a combination of data management, event planning, research, reporting and analytical skills. Prior to joining the DEC, Ms. McClure, was the Development Coordinator at the Agricultural Stewardship Association in Greenwich, NY where she fund-raised to conserve farmland in Washington and Rensselaer Counties. She was responsible for writing grants, the annual report and appeals, coordinated a yearly raffle and assisted with special events. Dana will focus on administering our grants program and will be our point of contact for all grant related issues and questions.

On the Front Lines: Office of Management & Budget

• Tom is an Associate Budgeting Analyst who secures funds for the cleanup of natural disasters such as Hurricanes Sandy and Irene and the massive snowstorm that buried Buffalo a few years ago. Tom manages a small farm with his family and is also a volunteer with his local fire department.
• Katie, an Associate Administrative Budget Analyst, primarily handles the budget for many of DEC’s recreational projects, such as improvements to hiking trails, fishing access sites, and the new Five Rivers Education Center unveiled earlier this year. Katie and her husband also have an affinity for one of the area’s most popular college sports programs and enjoy traveling, most recently to France and Peru.

Learn more about Tom and Katie by watching their video profile.

You can also view additional video profiles of DEC staff throughout the state and the important work they do to protect the environment, conserve New York’s vast natural resources, and serve the public.

Grant Reminders

Remember, grants for the development of Urban Environmental Education Centers are now available. In November, Governor Cuomo announced $1 million to support community-based organizations in their efforts to educate residents about environmental issues.

To apply for a grant, visit the New York State Grants Gateway. If you are currently a registered user on the Gateway, please log in using your credentials.

If you are not a registered user, please select the "request access now" link under Registration and follow the instructions. More information is available at: Grants Reform site.

Applications are due February 2, 2018 by 3:00 PM EST.

Think Green for the Holidays

There are still many opportunities for consumers to be more sustainable during the holiday season. The best way to have a sustainable holiday is to simplify. When you simplify the holidays you often reduce your costs, stress and waste.

Check out sustainable tips for the holidays.

Winter Programs and Recreation

Winter is here! The temperatures may be a little lower, but that doesn't mean the outdoor fun is on hold.

Winter is a great time to explore our parks and open spaces. Try a First Day Hike, visit one of our Environmental Education Centers and take advantage of our special winter programs, or maybe try a winter run.

Remember to stay safe and warm, and always be prepared by following these winter tips.

The outdoors are open all year long, so get outside!

Help Us Serve You

If you have any Environmental Justice related issues, questions, or concerns, please send your email to justice@dec.ny.gov or call 518-402-9498.

Register to vote

Happy Holidays!