Assemblywoman Russell helps pass legislation to combat invasive species
Increase outreach and education
Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa)
announced that legislation she authored to help fight the spread of invasive
species and bolster soil and water conservation education has passed the
Assembly (A.9132 and A.9131). The bill makes needed updates to the Soil and
Water Conservation Districts Law to reflect their evolving role in the battle against
invasive species and as conservation educators.
The
legislation was crafted by the Commission on Rural Resources of which
Assemblywoman Russell is the Chair. The Commission develops policies and
programs to address the unique needs of rural communities, individuals,
businesses, local governments, service providers and others.
“Good stewardship
of our natural resources is not only a moral responsibility but an economic
responsibility,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Our waters attract thousands of
visitors every year and our soil supports our agricultural industry. These
resources are critical to our economy and our way of life.”
Invasive species
pose a significant threat to the North Country by degrading natural habitats,
displacing or eradicating native species and contaminating waters, forests and
farms. Assembly
bill 9132 provides statutory authority for Soil and Water Conservation
Districts (SWCDs) to continue measures focused on identification, eradication,
prevention and education.
Paul Hetzler, Horticulture
and Natural Resources Educator at Cornel Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence
County said, “A number of invasive species, most notably emerald ash borer and
giant hogweed, represent an imminent and substantial threat to both the economy
of northern New York State and the health of its residents. Even a potential
threat such as the Asian longhorned beetle requires active prevention measures,
as this pest would bring an end to northern New York State’s maple industry and
greatly reduce its timber production. Given these realities, Cornell
Cooperative Extension supports all legislative measures that enable, empower,
or authorize other agencies in the natural resources domain to further their
work in the prevention and control of invasive species. CCE is eager to
continue working with partner agencies in the fight against invasive species.”
In addition to
their efforts to combat invasive species, SWCDs play a significant role in
educating the public about soil and water conservation. Currently, 20% of the state's
SWCDs have Environmental Educators on staff. Assembly bill 9131 solidifies this
role by authorizing them to undertake public information and education programs
relating to water and soil conservation.
Dawn C. Howard,
Conservation District Manager, St. Lawrence County Soil and Water Conservation
District said, “This legislation will provide legislative authority to SWCDs
for providing this service, therefore, recognizing conservation education as a
practice that can stand alone in the protection of natural resources. It will legitimize programs and the value of
education that cannot be understated as an important tool in preserving and
protecting NY’s soil, water and other natural resources.”
SWCDs educate
both youth and adults regarding conservation issues. Many programs are
disseminated through elementary and high school education programs, which
inspire young people to be environmental stewards at an early age. Education
programs include conservation tours, pasture walks, conservation award programs
and dissemination of information on identifying and mitigating invasive species.
-30-