Small streams and wetlands constitute a huge percentage of our waterways and serve outsized roles in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, but many do not appear on public maps. Although they are threatened by our land uses and by the changing climate, most are unprotected by federal and state laws. Some Hudson Valley communities have amended their local codes to extend protections to these important resources.
In this field workshop, we will discuss the values of small wetlands and streams; how to find and identify them, even in their dry condition; threats to wetlands and streams; and effective regulatory and non-regulatory protections.
The program is especially designed for municipal officials, including members of planning boards and conservation advisory councils, and for members of watershed groups, land trust staff, and others who are regularly engaged in municipal or other land use planning and policy-making, reviewing land development proposals, advising landowners, or making land management or regulatory decisions.
This workshop will be offered on two separate dates:
- New Paltz, Ulster County: Tuesday, September 26, 2:00-4:30pm (Inclement weather date: September 29) [registration for the New Paltz workshop is now closed]
- Coeymans, Albany County: Wednesday, October 4, 2:00-4:30pm (Inclement weather date: October 5)
The program will be led by Hudsonia Ltd. in collaboration with the Hudson River Estuary Program.
The event is free-of-charge but registration is required. Please register by 22 September 2023.
Space is limited, so early registration is recommended. Applicants from Hudson Valley municipal or county agencies, conservation or watershed organizations, and others involved in local land use planning or decision-making will be given priority to attend.
Municipal training certificates for 2.5 hours of credit will be available. The program will be held outdoors. Participants should be comfortable to stand for the duration of the workshop and to walk approximately a half mile on uneven ground. The workshop locations will be shared with participants prior to the program.
This program is held in partnership with Cornell University and the NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Program, and funded by the NYS Environmental Protection Fund.
Hudsonia staff will email you to confirm your registration 