DEC Contact: Lori Severino (518) 402-8000 August 31, 2017
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DEC ENCOURAGES OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS TO PURCHASE A HABITAT/ACCESS STAMPAnnual Donation of $5 to Help Invest in The Future of New York's Habitat and Outdoor Recreation |
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New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today issued a reminder and encouraged outdoor enthusiasts to consider purchasing a $5.00 Habitat/Access Stamp, an optional stamp that helps support the DEC's efforts to conserve habitat and increase public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation. “Those that purchase a $5 Habitat/Access Stamp can be confident that they are making a difference in helping DEC in its mission and work to improve and grow the state’s open land and public access for increased outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Commissioner Seggos. “The Habitat/Access stamp is a great way that we can individually contribute and help conserve New York's natural wildlife heritage.” New York’s habitat serves a vital role in maintaining healthy and sustainable fish and wildlife resources for all to enjoy. Created in 2002, the Habitat/Access Stamp helps supply financial support towards DEC’s efforts in improving and conserving fish and wildlife habitat, as well as increasing access to public and private lands for fish and wildlife recreation. Revenues from the sale of habitat/access stamps are deposited into the Habitat Conservation and Access Account (HCAA). The HCAA was created in 2015 as part of the young forest initiative and to foster on-the-ground habitat management and enhancement efforts and public access improvement. Since its inception, the stamp has generated $430,000, but sales have decreased over the last two years. With funds resulting from sales of habitat and access stamps, some of the projects completed by DEC and partners include:
A stamp is not required to hunt, fish or trap, nor is an individual required to buy a sporting license to donate for a stamp. A Habitat & Access Stamp can be purchases at a state license issuing agent location (see listing on DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/95448.html) or through the New York’s online license issuing system (see http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6101.html). |
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