DEC Does What?!

This Season 4 kick off episode spotlights DEC’s affordable and fun DEC summer camp offerings and the lifelong bonds they help create. DEC’s Summer Camp program attracts 1,400 children each summer to the State’s week-long sleepaway learning experience at four different locations across the state. Episode Notes:   Summer Camp Experience Register Online Employment at Education Camps    For more information on "DEC Does What?!," visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast   

In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton about the opportunities and challenges leading New York’s expansive environmental agency, the foundational role of the State’s natural environment to the health and well-being of all New Yorkers, and the importance of standing up and leading on environmental protections.   Episode Notes: Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton GOGO: Get Offline, Get Outside Transformational Opportunities Under the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act 25 Million Trees Toolkit Mount Vernon Water Infrastructure Improvements BearWise Basics

In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica welcome Alan Ilagan, Associate Director Human Resources, and Natalie Joseph, Human Resources Specialist, with DEC’s Division of Human Resources to highlight DEC’s recruiting efforts to fill positions across every region of New York State, open exam announcements for Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Forest Rangers, and how potential candidates can find jobs through the State’s Civil Service system.   Episode Notes: Employment Opportunities with DEC Apply to Become a DEC Environmental Conservation Officer | VIDEO Apply to Become a DEC Forest Ranger | VIDEO New York HELPS About:   “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Region 4 Director Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

DEC’s first campgrounds—Sacandaga and Sharp Bridge—were established in 1920, and the newest campground, Frontier Town, opened in 2019. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by Campground Program Supervisor Jessica McBride and Conservation Operations Supervisor Andrea Dukett who explain how DEC’s Bureau of Recreation oversees the operations of 55 campgrounds and day use areas in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve visited by an estimated 1.5 million people each year. Episode Notes:   First-Time Camper Weekend Program Camping Reservations VIDEO: Know Before You Go – DEC Campgrounds VIDEO: Throwback Adirondack and Catskill Camping - From the DEC Vault About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

Since the 1930s, DEC (then known as New York’s Conservation Department) has participated in events at the New York State Fairgrounds. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by Oneida Fish Hatchery Manager Bill Evans and Public Participation Specialist Emma Antolos to explore how DEC staff from the Divisions of Lands and Forests, Fish and Wildlife, Law Enforcement, Forest Protection, and Communications, Education, and Engagement promotes outdoor recreational opportunities and environmental conservation efforts across the state.   Episode Notes: The Great New York State Fair VIDEO: DEC Aquarium at the New York State Fair VIDEO: Estimating Walleye Abundance in Oneida Lake About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

Bats are the world’s only flying mammal and New York State is home to nine different species. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by DEC Wildlife Biologists Casey Kennedy and Ashley Meyer with the Division of Fish and Wildlife to explain how DEC’s Bat Diversity Program tracks population changes and distribution of bats throughout the state. Guests also discuss the many benefits bats provide, how New Yorkers can help support and restore bat populations, misconceptions about rabies, and the devastating impact of White Nose Syndrome that causes mass mortality in four of New York’s hibernating bat species. Episode Notes: Bats of New York State (PDF) Protection of Northern Long-eared Bats DEC Encourages New Yorkers to Help Protect Bats During “Bat Week” (Oct. 2024) Bat Week (Oct. 24-31) Video: Catching Bats in a Mist Net (NYSDEC YouTube) About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast  Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

Established in 1949, New York’s Artificial Reef Program is the oldest in the U.S. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by DEC Marine Biologist Christopher LaPorta and Division Director Marty Gary to dive into the history of the State’s artificial reef network and how it artificial reefs help conserve, protect, and improve marine habitat for a variety of species. Guests also discuss how reefs support fishing and diving activities, and the coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and other entities for deploying large vessels to the ocean floor.   Episode Notes: Overview of Artificial Reefs Interactive Map of New York’s Artificial Reefs Timelapse Video: “Jana Marie” Deployed to DEC’s Twelve Mile Reef Saltwater Fishing in New York State About:   “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

New York State is rich in minerals, including sand, gravel, bluestone, zinc, and salt, which are mined for industrial and construction uses and the U.S. Geological Survey estimates the annual value of New York's mineral production at $1.84 billion. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by Psalm Wyckoff, Section Chief for the Mined Land Reclamation Program, and Jami June, Mined Land Reclamation Specialist—staff with DEC’s Division of Mineral Resources—to discuss the essential role of minerals in New York State’s economy and how the agency oversees the mining industry to ensure the protection of natural resources. Episode Notes:  Mining and Reclamation Mined Land Reclamation (Video) Mineral Resources of New York State About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.  

In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica speak with Officer Mary Frano and Officer Craig Tompkins from DEC’s Region 3 (lower Hudson Valley) about the agency’s wide-ranging front line efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Conversations explore the critical work of DEC’s Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) who help protect New York’s air, water, wildlife, and public safety. The episode covers the wide-ranging responsibilities of ECOs as they enforce the New York Environmental Conservation Law, navigate the unpredictable nature of tasks during an “average” day, and guide the next generation of New Yorkers to engage in outdoor activities across New York State. Episode Notes:  Environmental Conservation Police Officers History of Conservation Law Enforcement in New York State Become a NYS Environmental Conservation Police Officer Video: On the Front Lines – Environmental Conservation Police Officer About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica welcome Gordon Batcheller, retired DEC’s Wildlife Bureau Chief and current Wildlife Biologist with the Northeast Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies, and Mike Menza, Environmental Program Specialist with DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife, to discuss the extraordinary restoration success story for New York State’s wild turkey population, the spring and fall turkey hunting seasons, and the importance of continuing the heritage of turkey hunting and provide safe and ethical hunting opportunities to future generations. They also talk about how DEC’s intro song came to be.   Episode Notes: Wild Turkeys in New York State Turkey Hunting Seasons DEC’s Hunter Education Program Opportunities for Youth Hunting Get Outdoors and Get Together Day   About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

Hosts Sean and Erica speak with Captain Nancy Ganswindt and Forest Ranger Chuck Kabrehl about the critical work of DEC’s Division of Forest Protection in responding to wildfires and wilderness emergencies across the State. From fighting forest fires to conducting backcountry rescues to enforcing the laws of New York State, their talents are many. Capt. Ganswindt and Ranger Kabrehl also share their most memorable rescues, investigations, wildfire deployments, and even a surprise celebrity encounter with Nicole Kidman and Martha Stewart. Listeners will also learn about the importance of the annual burn ban, where to get daily air quality updates, and how to be prepared to hike smart before heading out to the woods. Episode Notes: Statewide Burn Ban: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/air-quality/open-burning  Campfire Safety: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping/fire-safety  Fire Danger Map: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/wildfires/fire-danger-map  Make Your Home Firewise: https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/wildfires/firewise-new-york/homeowners  Contact a Forest Ranger: https://dec.ny.gov/about/contact-us/forest-ranger-rosters  Becoming a Forest Ranger: https://dec.ny.gov/about/employment/explore-career-descriptions/forest-ranger-1  About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by staff from DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife— Roy “JR” Jacobson, Habitat Protection Section Head, and Krista Spohr, Freshwater Wetlands Outreach Coordinator—for a conversation about the newly adopted freshwater wetland regulations and general permits, how DEC determines where wetlands are located to enhance conservation efforts statewide, and the long history of state and federal environmental protections for these critical ecosystems.   Episode Notes: Freshwater Wetlands Program DEC Finalizes Regulations to Protect Freshwater Wetlands Free Fishing Weekend Events Moose Rescued from Lake Abanakee Camp Santanoni Winter Weekend Events About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

DEC’s Spills staff respond to more than 10,000 spills each year, part of the agency’s real-time emergency management of petroleum and hazardous and non-hazardous material releases that can have direct impacts to local streams, water supplies, and public health. In this episode, hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by staff from DEC’s Division of Environmental Remediation—Mike Zamiarski, Regional Spills Engineer in DEC’s Region 8, and Kevin Hale, Chief of Spill Response Coordination—to discuss how DEC’s Spill Response program protects and restores New York’s natural environment and how DEC’s spills experts are engaging the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technicians. In this episode, Mike and Kevin explain the three key components of the program (prevention, response, and remediation), how staff use their professional judgement to address spills and clean up materials to protect New Yorkers, how DEC’s spill response staff coordinate with state agency partners, regional staff, local municipalities, and emergency responders on incidents in communities across the state, and New York’s nation-leading work to clean up leaking underground fuel storage tanks. We also learn about the different types of spills DEC responds to, including petroleum, chemicals, sewage, manure, and even beer, milk, and chocolate. Episode Notes: Chemical and Petroleum Spills Reporting a Spill to DEC Home Heating Safety: Oil Fuel Tanks (Video) Underground Heating Oil Tanks: A Homeowner's Guide Register for DEC’s 2025 Summer Camps Upcoming Examinations for Special Licenses DEC’s Annual Tree and Shrub Seedling Sale New Freshwater Wetland Regulations About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

In this episode, hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by Julie Berlinski, a research scientist with DEC’s Bureau of Water Resource Management, and Division of Water environmental program specialists Alene Onion and Leila Mitchell, to discuss the need to reduce rock salt use and how to do it. While the use of rock salt on roadways and sidewalks is necessary for safe and efficient travel during snowy New York winters, it can have negative impacts on lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and groundwater. Learn more about how to reduce rock salt use, and don’t be salty!   Notes: Rock Salt Reduction webpage: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/rock-salt-reduction Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program: https://dec.ny.gov/get-involved/grant-applications/wqip-program Ice Fishing: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/ice-fishing Paint Collection Program: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/recycling-composting/postconsumer-paint-collection Winter Hiking Safety: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/winter-safety Great Winter Hikes: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/great-winter-hikes

In this episode, we explore the work of DEC’s Division of Water to protect the iconic Great Lakes, the largest freshwater ecosystem in the world. DEC’s Great Lakes Program is the largest watershed by land area, working across over 42 percent of the state’s land area and along over 750 miles of shoreline. New York's Great Lakes Basin includes Lake Erie, Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River, and holds 21 percent of the world's freshwater resources. Hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by Shannon Dougherty, DEC’s Great Lakes Program Director, to discuss restoration work in coordination with other counties and states, why DEC uses nature-based shoreline protection methods to protect local habitats and communities and support public access benefits, and recent success stories like the Rochester Embayment Area of Concern Delisting. Shannon also explains how DEC tracks the overall health of the Great Lakes Basin, and the impact of HABs and climate change on Lake Erie and Ontario, including increased erosion and flooding events. Episode 17 also spotlights the latest environmental news and DEC initiatives, including encouraging New Yorkers to sign up for one of DEC’s ‘First Day Hikes’ to celebrate the New Year, reminding outdoor adventurers to follow winter hiking safety tips, and to sign up to become Volunteer Campground Ambassadors for the 2025 camping season. Episode Notes: DEC’s Great Lakes Program New York State Great Lakes Action Agenda Rochester Embayment Area of Concern Delisting Invasive Species: Asian Carp First Day Hikes Winter Hiking Safety (Video) DEC Campground Ambassador Program About:   “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

In this episode, we take a closer look at how DEC supported recovery efforts as part of the New York State Incident Management Team (IMT) operations in the city of Asheville, NC, following the devastation of Hurricane Helene in September 2024. Hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald welcome Division of Forest Protection Forest Ranger Captain Adam Pickett and Division of Communication, Education, and Engagement/DEC Region 5 Public Participation Specialist Erin Hanczyk to discuss their 14-day IMT deployments, which included helping to distribute food and water to impacted communities and coordinating communications and outreach to support recovery efforts in western North Carolina. Adam and Erin also discuss navigating the challenges of deployment, including coordinating logistics between state, federal, and local agencies, maintaining healthy work-to-rest schedules during lengthy workdays, and lending support to fellow disaster response team members with families in impacted communities. They discuss how their experiences help inform incident response in New York, including the recent Jennings Creek wildfire. Episode 16 also spotlights the latest environmental news and DEC initiatives, including the graduation of DEC’s newest class of Forest Rangers, unique job opportunities with DEC, and a special holiday sale for The Conservationist, DEC’s official bi-monthly magazine. Episode Notes: The Conservationist Magazine DEC’s Division of Forest Protection DEC Announces Graduation of Nine New York State Forest Rangers (Photos) Governor Hochul Announces Full Containment of Jennings Creek Wildfire at Sterling Forest State Park (Nov. 22, 2024) “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast    Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.

November is Native American Heritage Month, a nationwide celebration of the contributions of Indigenous peoples and celebration of their heritage, traditions, culture, art, and history while acknowledging how society has impacted Indigenous peoples and culture. New York State was the first state to recognize ‘American Indian Day’ in 1916, originally observed on the second Saturday in May. In this episode, hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by Peter Reuben, Director of DEC’s Office of Indian Nation Affairs, and Beynan Ransom, the Office’s Program Coordinator, to discuss how DEC works to strengthen relationships and engagement with Indigenous Nations on environmental issues, protection of cultural and historical resources, and development of policies around various areas, including environmental justice. Pete and Beynan—who are enrolled members of Indigenous Nations—discuss how their personal experience shaped their careers with DEC, future goals and objectives for the Office of Indian Nation Affairs in the coming years, and the recent return of 1,000 acres of ancestral land in the Tully Valley to the Onondaga Nation. Episode 15 also spotlights the latest environmental news and DEC initiatives, including statewide drought conditions, DEC’s response to recent wildfires across the state—including the Jennings Creek fire in Orange County—and the statewide burn ban in place through Nov. 30, due to increased risk of wildfires.   Episode Notes:  DEC’s Office of Indian Nation Affairs (OINA) Governor Hochul, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Onondaga Nation and Attorney General James Announce More Than 1,000 Acres in Central New York's Tully Valley Returned to Onondaga Nation Statewide Drought Watch Issued (Nov. 2024) Wildland Fire Safety and Prevention About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast      Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.  

Hunting remains one of the most popular forms of outdoor wildlife recreation in New York State, with more than 565,000 licensed hunters generating approximately $1.5 billion in economic activity each year. In this episode, hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by Timothy Pyszczynski and Brendan Quirion—Wildlife Biologists with DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife—to discuss the importance of hunter education and safety programs to recruit the next generation of hunters and help prevent hunting-related accidents, preview the deer and bear harvest for 2024-2025, and explore the role of big game hunting in wildlife management and conservation, including maintaining healthy deer and bear populations. Tim and Brendan also reflect on how their passion for science and the outdoors led to careers with DEC and share their favorite venison meals and how local harvests help reduce our environmental footprint and feed New Yorkers in need.   Episode Notes: DEC Reminds Outdoor Enthusiasts to Share the Woods Safely This Season Learn to Hunt Opportunities in New York Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Learn More: Hunter Education Programs (NYSDEC) Changes to State Sporting License, Carcass Tags for 2024 DEC Announces Nine-Pound Smallmouth Bass Breaks State Fishing Record DEC Rock Salt Usage survey (Deadline Nov. 1, 2024) I Bird New York Challenge ends Nov. 1, 2024 Prioritize Home Heating Safety This Winter by Inspecting Oil Fuel Tanks and Equipment for Leaks and Spills

Every October, more than 5,000 students and educators from across New York State participate in the annual A Day in the Life of the Hudson and Harbor. The event provides opportunities for hands-on activities to encourage discovery and interest in protecting the Hudson River ecosystem. This episode, hosts Sean and Erica welcome Chris Bowser—Education Coordinator with DEC’s Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve and passionate advocate for connecting people to nature—for a wide-ranging conversation on DEC’s education and engagement work in communities along the Hudson River. Bowser is a familiar face to followers of DEC’s social media, often hosting livestream events to engage with viewers and explain DEC’s work to protect New York’s fish, animals, and natural environment. During the episode, Bowser explains his role to encourage environmental stewardship of the Hudson River through a variety of DEC programs and work with scientists and educators at the Norrie Point Environmental Center, and how New Yorkers can get involved in protecting our environment and explore New York’s mighty Hudson River and estuary. He also traces his path from Rutgers University studying the biology of the New York Harbor, serving in the Peace Corps in West Africa, his time aboard the Clearwater Sloop on the lower Hudson River, and career with DEC. Next episode: Sean and Erica talk about big game hunting season in New York State with DEC wildlife biologists. Episode Notes: DEC’s Hudson River Estuary Program A Day in the Life of the Hudson and Harbor Hudson River Eel Project | Video Norrie Point Environmental Center Science on the River Hudson River Almanac DEC Grant Funding Available for Tidal Hudson River Communities (Oct. 2024) Public Meeting: Community Air Monitoring (Buffalo, Oct. 15th, 2024) Big Game Youth Hunting Opportunities (Oct. 2024) “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast.

DEC’s dispatch office receives more than 100,000 calls every year. Sean and Erica talk to Communication Specialist Alicia Bodmer and Communication Technician David McCasland from Ray Brook Dispatch about what it’s like to respond to challenging calls. From coordinating mountain and water rescues to deploying staff and equipment during extreme weather events, DEC dispatchers hear it all, playing a frontline role in helping Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and Spills Response experts get to where they’re needed most. It’s not all emergencies though – you’ll hear some lighthearted stories too, including one about an owl who isn’t such a fan of Garth Brooks. Notes: Hike Smart NY: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/hike-smart-ny DEC Dispatch: (877) 457-5680 Hunting Seasons: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/seasons Oct. 7 Environmental Justice Listening Tour in Rochester: https://dec.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2024/9/us-epa-and-nys-dec-announce-oct-7-environmental-justice-listening-session-in-rochester