Bill > S07970

This bill establishes a comprehensive management program for the Mohawk River Basin, spanning from its headwaters in Lewis County to its mouth at the Hudson River in Cohoes. The bill creates a dedicated district that includes the Mohawk River, its watershed, tributaries, and adjacent areas, with the primary goal of conserving, protecting, and restoring the river's environmental quality. Key provisions include establishing a Mohawk River Basin management advisory committee composed of representatives from various sectors like drinking water, fishing, tourism, agriculture, and regional planning, as well as appointing a watershed coordinator within the state environmental department. The bill mandates the development of a management strategy and action agenda addressing critical issues such as climate change, land use, fisheries, pollution, drinking water, and recreation. The coordinator will also be required to develop a plan to prevent aquatic invasive species proliferation and submit annual progress reports to the state legislature. The advisory committee will provide guidance on regulatory and policy matters and report annually on its activities and recommendations. The bill aims to promote integrated environmental resource management with consideration of the river's impact on the broader ecosystem, including its connection to the Hudson River and the New York State Barge Canal.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7970