With nearly 3 million New Yorkers potentially losing their federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assistance in November, DEC is encouraging hunters to help fight hunger in our … more

Zach Picinich of Walton harvested this estimated 350–400-pound black bear with his bow and arrow around 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 at Holley Hill Farm off county Route 21. Picinich thanked the Holley … more

In observance of Bat Week and to raise awareness about the critical role of bats in the environment, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) encourages outdoor enthusiasts … more

Halloween is a fun time for tricks and treats, but many of those treats come in wrappers that can’t be recycled. Candy wrappers are often made of shiny plastic and foil and are tricky to … more

Smash up any pumpkin rinds and guts before mixing them into your backyard pile with plenty of carbon sources (leaves, wood chips, twigs, etc.). Be sure to remove any candles, wax, or lights from … more

Heading out on the trails is a great way to enjoy fall foliage. Want to support New York state’s trails this fall? Consider purchasing a Trail Supporter Patch. Each patch costs $5, and all … more

Fifteen-year-old Wyatt Pacheco of Fleischmanns shows off his impressive five-pointer, harvested under the supervision of his father on Oct. 13 during New York’s 2025 Youth Hunt Weekend, a … more

Heading out on the trails this fall? All outdoor recreation enthusiasts can take steps to prevent the spread of invasive species! Invasive plants such as Japanese stilt grass, swallow-wort, and … more

The new “Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge” is part of New York state’s many efforts to help address the youth mental health crisis by encouraging teens to engage in interesting … more

Join the Delaware Highlands Conservancy for eagle-watching all winter long, including for its popular series of Eagle Watch bus tours in January and February. Bus Tours Winter 2026 Join the … more

With hunting seasons underway and fall hiking still at its peak, DEC is encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to follow safety precautions while recreating this fall and winter. Whether you are a hiker, … more

For 12-year-old Lydia Vitarius, this year’s youth big game hunt was one she’ll never forget. The young hunter from Bloomville harvested her first buck, a nine-pointer weighing 160 pounds … more