Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) announced what they called a "significant step" in the protection of some of the state's most vital land.

While the majority of the country seems to immediately think of the city when they hear the words "New York", local residents know exactly how rural most of the state is. Starting this month, an additional million acres of land will now be protected.

The New York State Department of Environmental conservation (NYS DEC) recently announced new protections on 1 million acres of New York land (Google)
The New York State Department of Environmental conservation (NYS DEC) recently announced new protections on 1 million acres of New York land (Google)
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New Wetland Protections Announced By NYS DEC

While the majority of New York is covered in forests (including possibly the oldest forest on the entire planet), the recent regulations were focused on a different type of ecosystem: local wetlands.

Read More: Rare Snowy Owl Spotted in New York State

New York Wetlands of "Unusual Importance" Focus of New Regulations

"DEC has announced updated regulations to protect an additional one million acres of freshwater wetlands across the state", began a recent post from the NYS DEC (below). After explaining the benefits of healthy wetlands, they shared how New Yorkers could be part of future protection decisions.

New Yorkers Invited to Join the Conversation

Residents can learn the details of the new regulations during a webinar on January 15th (click HERE). New Yorkers are also encouraged to voice their opinion about potential permitting requirements for wetland activities by emailing DEPPermitting@dec.ny.gov.

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While many commenters welcomed the additional protections, others expressed wariness of the mentions of land jurisdiction and land development projects in the announcement.

NYS DEC's 5-Step Guide to Pooping in the Woods

"Hey, Upstate! Slow Down!" There is a Lot to See Along the 183 Miles of NYS I-81

This gallery showcases some big and very small things to see and visit along the 183 miles of Interstate 81. The road cuts through the center of New York in almost a straight line from Canada to Pennsylvania. Here are some historic facts, restaurants, trivia, and other things not to miss along this busy highway! Including a couple of this writer's favorite restaurants. From big cities like Binghamton, Syracuse, and Watertown, to little map dots like Marathon and Homer, there is plenty to see!

Gallery Credit: Chuck DImperio

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