Catskill Mountainkeeper

Apr 12, 2022

Catskill and Adirondack groups applaud state budget funding for state land stewardship

April 12, 2022 — Albany, NY — Catskill and Adirondack conservation and recreation groups applaud the New York State legislature and Governor Hochul for passing an ambitious budget that prioritizes land stewardship and environmental protection. The final budget includes nearly $50 million for State Land Stewardship within an historic $400 million Environmental Protection Fund.

Within State Land Stewardship, the final budget includes $8 million in funding dedicated specifically for Adirondack and Catskill “visitor safety and wilderness protection activities to address issues relating to overuse.”

"Governor Hochul, the Senate, and the Assembly deserve all the credit they've received for investing in the Catskills and Adirondack Parks in this year's budget and putting a $4.2 billion bond act before voters. These investments are always needed, but the COVID 19 pandemic shifted people outside, intensifying the impact on our public lands. Funding will improve trail safety and maintenance, in addition to supporting public education and outreach to help visitors enjoy the parks while preserving the Catskills' and Adirondacks' splendor," said Katherine Nadeau, Catskill Mountainkeeper's deputy director.

Mountainkeeper Joins Binghamton Residents to Promote Climate Plan Based on Jobs, Justice, and Energy Security

Apr 12, 2022

Assemblymember Lupardo, environmental justice advocates, and community residents spoke to media in advance of public hearing on the Climate Action Council’s Draft Scoping Plan

"In New York, we're lucky--we're up against a climate emergency, but we're not stuck sitting around waiting for solutions," said Wes Gillingham, Catskill Mountainkeeper's Associate Director. "The Climate Action Council's final plan must focus on solutions we can implement now, identify how to pay for the transition New Yorkers need and deserve, and prioritize justice for all New Yorkers. We have the law and the process to transition away from fossil fuels that are destroying our planet, health, and lives. Today, the focus is on how to make this transition a reality."

Click 'read more' for the full release from April 12, 2022's press conference at the Climate Action Council's public hearing.