New York State Wildlife Action Plan

New York State Wildlife Action Plan is a comprehensive plan developed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to conserve and manage wildlife in New York (state). The plan aims to protect endangered species and their habitats, while also promoting ecosystem health and biodiversity in the state. It was developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including The Nature Conservancy, Wildlife Conservation Society, and Audubon Society. The plan is aligned with the State Wildlife Grants Program and the Endangered Species Act.

Introduction

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation developed the plan to address the declining populations of various species in the state, including the Northern Long-eared Bat, Eastern Box Turtle, and Bobolink. The plan is based on the principles of conservation biology and ecology, and it takes into account the state's unique geography and climate. It is also informed by the work of organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature, World Wildlife Fund, and The Wildlife Society. The plan's development involved extensive consultation with stakeholders, including New York State Legislature, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service.

Background and Development

The plan was developed in response to the State Wildlife Grants Program, which was established by the United States Congress in 2000 to support wildlife conservation efforts in the states. The program is administered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and provides funding to states to develop and implement comprehensive wildlife conservation plans. The development of the plan involved a thorough review of the state's wildlife and their habitats, as well as an assessment of the threats facing these species. The plan was also informed by the work of organizations such as the Cornell University, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and New York State Museum.

Conservation Strategies and Goals

The plan outlines a range of conservation strategies and goals to protect wildlife in the state, including the protection of habitats, the restoration of ecosystems, and the management of invasive species. The plan also aims to promote sustainable land use practices, such as agroforestry and permaculture, and to support ecotourism and wildlife watching initiatives. The plan's goals are aligned with those of other organizations, such as the National Wildlife Federation, The Trust for Public Land, and American Bird Conservancy. The plan also takes into account the state's climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, as outlined in the New York State Climate Action Plan.

Species of Greatest Conservation Need

The plan identifies a range of species that are in need of conservation attention, including the Wood Turtle, Eastern Hellbender, and Piping Plover. These species are listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act or are considered to be of special concern by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The plan outlines specific conservation strategies and actions to protect these species, such as the protection of habitats, the reduction of pollution, and the management of invasive species. The plan also takes into account the work of organizations such as the Zoological Wildlife Foundation, Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, and New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council.

Implementation and Funding

The plan is being implemented by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in partnership with other state agencies, such as the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The plan is also being supported by federal agencies, such as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service. The plan's implementation is funded through a combination of state and federal funds, including the State Wildlife Grants Program and the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act. The plan also receives support from non-profit organizations, such as the Nature Conservancy, Wildlife Conservation Society, and Audubon Society.

Monitoring and Review

The plan is subject to regular monitoring and review to ensure that it is meeting its conservation goals and objectives. The plan's implementation is monitored by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and other state agencies, as well as by federal agencies and non-profit organizations. The plan is also reviewed and updated regularly to reflect new information and changing conservation priorities. The plan's review and update process involves extensive consultation with stakeholders, including New York State Legislature, United States Congress, and International Union for Conservation of Nature. The plan's success is also evaluated in relation to other conservation efforts, such as the North American Bird Conservation Initiative and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Category:Conservation in New York (state)