MakingWaves - Flush Responsibly; DEC Marks 50th Anniversary; Climate Training; Deadline Extended for EEA Applications

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC Delivers - Information to keep you connected and informed from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
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MakingWaves - News from the Division of Water

In this Issue:

  • Reminder to Flush Responsibly
  • DEC and Earth Day Mark Golden Anniversaries
  • Earth Day 2020 Climate Training for Educators
  • Deadline Extended for Environmental Excellence Awards Applications 

A Reminder to Flush Responsibly

Wipes in treatment plant

Certain materials flushed down toilets can damage sewer systems, wastewater treatment operations, or private septic systems, even when they are labeled as flushable. Correcting the damage is expensive, so do not flush any of the items listed below, no matter how small. Please throw them in the trash. 

  • diapers
  • baby wipes
  • disinfectant wipes
  • personal hygiene products
  • any paper products other than toilet paper (e.g., paper towels, facial tissues, paper napkins)

  

                                                            Clogged treatment systems are expensive to clean out.


DEC 50 anniversary logo

DEC and Earth Day Mark Golden Anniversaries

On April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day, legislation was signed creating the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to oversee all environmental concerns through one agency. DEC opened its doors on July 1 that same year and began its work toward addressing environmental problems in the air, water and on land. Over the past 50 years, water quality has vastly improved, but a lot remains to be done as new problems arise, such as climate change, emerging contaminants, and harmful algal blooms. During Earth Week, the Division of Water invites you to find ways to help with its mission, "to protect and conserve the water resources of New York State", as we embark on the next 50 years. Find out more about DEC's 50th anniversary on DEC's History webpage.


Earth Day 2020 Climate Training for Educators

Projects WET and WILD have partnered with National Wildlife Federation (NWF) to provide a free online professional development opportunity for teachers and educators. Visit Project WET's Home and Distance Learning webpage to register. This self-paced training includes information on climate, global warming, biodiversity and more. After completing the course, participants will have access to two activities each from WET and WILD as well as Earth Day resources from NWF. This opportunity is available for free through June 2020.


Deadline Extended for Environmental Excellence Awards Applications

Environmental Excellence Award

DEC has extended the deadline to submit applications for the 17th annual Environmental Excellence Awards program. The Environmental Excellence Awards recognize businesses, institutions, municipalities, and organizations for outstanding commitments to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic viability. The new deadline for applications is Friday, May 15, 2020.