Senator Young Presented with Award from New York Association of Conservation Districts

ALBANY - Senator Catharine Young (R, I, C–Olean), Chair of the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources, was deeply honored to accept this year’s “Appreciation Award” from the New York Association of Conservation Districts (NYACD).

NYACD represents Soil and Water Conservation Districts located in counties throughout New York State. NYACD represents and supports individual districts as they work to conserve soil, water, and other natural resources.

Senator Young was recently recognized with the honor during an award ceremony at NYACD’s annual conference in Utica, New York.

“The New York Association of Conservation Districts is pleased to recognize Senator Young for the ongoing support she has given to the State’s 58 Soil and Water Conservation Districts over the past 10 years. The Senator has a true understanding of the value that districts have in their local communities in terms of natural resource conservation,” said Judy Littrell, Executive Director of NYACD.

“Having grown up on a third-generation dairy and crop farm in Livingston County, I have personally seen the benefit of combining sound agricultural practices with efforts to conserve natural resources. It is why I advocate for the important work of Soil and Water Conservation Districts in New York State,” said Senator Young.

“I am grateful for both this award from NYACD and for the day-to-day efforts of Soil and Water Conservation Districts throughout our great state,” said Senator Young.

Soil and Water Conservation Districts have a profoundly positive impact on the health of New York State’s natural resources. The work conducted by the districts provides a direct benefit to local communities across the state. Their ability to adapt to new challenges is at the core of their success. Therefore, it is not surprising that the role of Soil and Water Conservation Districts has evolved and expanded over time.

During the past year, Senator Young sponsored and passed two bills that officially incorporate some of these new roles into law. Both bills were signed by the governor in August.

The first of these bills expands the districts’ authorization to educate local communities about conservation practices. It ensures that the districts and their educators are recognized for this important activity, and that they will continue to receive needed resources to meet these vital educational needs in their communities. Education is key to preserving and protecting New York’s soil, water, and other natural resources.

The second bill authorizes the districts to engage in the prevention and eradication of invasive species. This is a critical issue throughout New York State. Fortunately, soil and water conservation districts are already on the front lines in the fight against invasive species. This bill formally recognizes that role and enables districts to continue to effectively battle the invasive species that threaten our land and waterways.

“As a vital resource to municipalities, organizations, businesses, and individuals, I expect that Soil and Water Conservation Districts will become increasingly important within their local communities. In my role as a State Senator, I will continue to defend and advance the important work of Soil and Water Conservation Districts,” said Senator Young.

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