Premiere Episode Focuses on Impact of Upcoming Solar Eclipse on New York Wildlife 

New Yorkers Reminded to Plan Ahead for Safe Viewing Experience During 2024 Solar Eclipse 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today launched a new podcast, “DEC Does What?!” Each episode will feature conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. The first episode of “DEC Does What?!” is streaming on the DEC website, http://dec.ny.gov/podcast. All episodes will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music and all other major podcast services in the coming weeks.  

“From DEC’s social media feeds and updated website to our press releases and Conservationist magazine, DEC is continuously exploring new ways to communicate with the New Yorkers we serve,” Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “DEC’s new podcast will feature incredible employees from the agency’s regional offices and divisions across the state, all committed to protecting our natural resources and public health. Whether DEC experts are talking about the eclipse, mitigating climate change, cleaning up legacy pollution, or encouraging responsible recreation, our team is at the forefront of efforts to address the evolving environmental challenges facing our state. Tune in to learn something new during DEC Does What?!” 

The first episode of “DEC Does What?!”—featuring biologists Dr. Angelena Ross and Dr. Dan Rosenblatt, both with DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife— focuses on the potential effects of the April 8 solar eclipse on New York wildlife, work underway to protect endangered wildlife, and how different species adapt to changes in their habitat caused by climate change and other factors. Hosted by Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald, the bi-weekly podcast also includes an update on environmental news and recent DEC initiatives. 

For more information on DEC Does What?!, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast

New Yorkers are reminded to be prepared and plan ahead to ensure a safe viewing experience for the 2024 Solar Eclipse. The public is encouraged to review valuable safety tips for travel, viewing, and safe and responsible recreation leading up to the eclipse on the DEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2024/3/dec-issues-public-safety-information-and-viewing-guidance-ahead-of-2024-solar-eclipse. For additional information on the State’s preparations for the eclipse, including health and safety tips and recommendations for enjoying this once-in-a-generation celestial event, visit http://www.iloveny.com/eclipse