New York

From Policy to the Streambank: How Conservation Partnerships are Protecting the Upper Delaware River Watershed

Protecting a watershed takes more than good intentions. It takes strong partnerships, thoughtful policy, and boots-on-the-ground action. That's exactly the approach Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR) has embraced for years as the New York state lead for the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed (CDRW).

While many organizations focus on either advocacy or restoration, FUDR has always believed the two go hand in hand. Strong conservation policies create opportunities for meaningful projects on the ground, and successful restoration efforts demonstrate why those policies matter.

Updated Culverts Help Communities Become Flood Resilient in the Upper Delaware Region

Flood mitigation is critically important to a community as it safeguards residents’ health and safety, protects homes, businesses, and infrastructure, and reduces the devastating economic impacts of flooding which the Upper Delaware Region is subject to on an annual basis. Effective flood mitigation also preserves natural resources, recovers aquatic passage, improves stormwater management, and strengthens community resilience, ensuring that recovery is faster, less costly, and more sustainable over the long term. By investing in prevention and preparedness, communities can foster safety, stability, and confidence in their future while maintaining a high quality of life.

DEC, NYSDOT, and Friends of the Upper Delaware River Announce Completion of a New Fishing Access Site in Hancock, Delaware County

The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Transportation (NYSDOT) and Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR) today announced completion of the new Cadosia Fishing Access Site in the town of Hancock, Delaware County. The project bolsters New York’s commitment to expand recreational opportunities on state lands and boost local economies. 

Upper Delaware River Conservation Advocates Celebrate Progress

August 1, 2023 Highland, NY – A broad cross section of Upper Delaware River conservation leaders gathered at the refurbished Highland Access boat ramp on State Route 97 to highlight how federal and state funding programs are helping ensure the future protection and restoration of the Delaware watershed in New York.

Once Again New York’s Budget Fails to Fully Support the Delaware River Basin Commission

Albany, NY (May 4, 2023) — Governor Kathy Hochul signed the Fiscal Year 2024 budget on Tuesday, notably falling short of New York’s commitment to fully fund the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) at the State’s agreed upon amount of $626,000. Instead, New York will fund the DRBC at just over 50% of the agreed upon full fair-share, $359,500, the same level since 2015. 

CDRW, FUDR, and NY Members Gathered in Albany to Show their Love for the EPF & the NYS Environmental Bond Act

CDRW, FUDR, and NY Members Gathered in Albany to Show their Love for the EPF & the NYS Environmental Bond Act

February 14th, The Coalition joined CDRW’s NY State Lead, Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR)   Coalition NY members, and other conservation advocates in Albany to show support and advocate for the $400 million NYS Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). 

$4.2 Billion Environmental Bond Act Passes in New York!

On Election Day 2022, New York voters overwhelmingly approved the $4.2 billion “Clean Water, Clean Air, Green Jobs Bond Act.” This decisive response from the New York electorate is the largest environmental bond act in the history of the state, making investments in:

  • Water Quality and Resilient Infrastructure

  • Open Space Conservation and Recreation

  • Restoration and Flood Risk Reduction

  • Climate Change Mitigation