Wildlife, Fish, and Marine Life Newsletter

2020 I Bird NY Challenges

DEC's 2020 "I Bird NY" challenges for beginner and experienced birders are underway. The I Bird NY program was launched in 2017 to build on the state's efforts to increase access to New York's vast natural resources and promote low-cost opportunities to explore the great outdoors and connect with nature.

Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities in the country. Backyard birding, or watching birds around the home, is the most common way people engage in birding. New York State is home to a wide range of habitats that support more than 450 different bird species throughout the year. There are also 59 designated Bird Conservation Areas to protect bird habitats on state lands and waters across New York. Check the map to find the bird conservation areas in your region. The state's I Bird NY program provides resources for New Yorkers who want to get outdoors and engage in birding all year long. People from all economic backgrounds can experience the joy of birdwatching. While binoculars can help, you can enjoy birds without any special equipment.

The Application Deadline for the Deer Management Assistance Program is August 1

Landowners who are experiencing damage from deer may wish to consider applying for extra harvest tags through our Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP). DMAP helps qualifying landowners and resource managers implement site-specific deer management on their lands to address crop damage or forest regeneration problems, protect areas of sensitive and rare plants, or conduct custom deer management programs. It can also be used by municipalities to reduce deer-related problems in residential communities.

DMAP permittees receive antlerless deer harvest tags that they can distribute to licensed hunters of their choice for use on the property where they are experiencing problems. The tags can be used only during open deer hunting seasons.

To see the eligibility requirements for DMAP or to download an application form, visit the DMAP webpage. Applications for this fall must be submitted to your regional wildlife office by August 1.

Photo by Dick Thomas.

Scam Alert

It has come to our attention that fraudulent websites claiming to sell NYS Freshwater Fishing Licenses are scamming users into providing personal information. While we work to resolve this issue, please be advised that the only legitimate method to purchase your NYS fishing license online is through the official DECALS website.

#GetCountedNY

Did you complete the census yet?

New York urges you to be part of our complete count effort, which will ensure census data is accurate. It’s quick and simple to participate, and it can even be done online now. Don’t be anonymous. Make sure you are counted in the 2020 U.S. Census, and encourage friends, family and co-workers to participate as well. Census data is an important tool that will help shape our future, and an accurate tally will help ensure everyone counts when it comes to key decisions impacting our future.

Learn more.