MakingWaves - Trees for Tribs; Well Contractor Registration; Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Funding; FEMA Training

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
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MakingWaves - News From the Division of Water

In This Issue:

  • Free Seedlings Available for Stream-side Plantings
  • Water Well Contractor Program Registration
  • Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Funding
  • Training Available: FEMA's Community Rating System

Free Seedlings Available for Stream-side Plantings

Image of a clear stream with trees, bushes, and grasses along the banks

DEC has announced that the application period for the Trees for Tribs' Buffer in a Bag Program is now open. Private and public landowners who qualify may apply for a free bag of 25 tree and shrub seedlings for planting near streams, rivers, or lakes to help stabilize banks, protect water quality, and improve wildlife habitat. Applications are due by 3:00 p.m. on April 12.

To qualify, landowners must have property in New York State with at least 50 feet that borders a stream, river, or lake, and provide photos or a map of the planting location. Visit DEC's website for more information about the Buffer in a Bag application process and requirements. Contact treesfortribs@dec.ny.gov with questions and visit Trees for Tribs Program on DEC's website to learn more.


Water Well Contractor Program Registration

The DEC Water Well Contractor Program is currently accepting applications for the Certificate of Registration for the period April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022. Registration is required by March 31 each year for all water well contractors who drill or repair water wells in New York State. The on-site contractor must be certified for the work they are conducting (well drilling and/or pump installation). A Preliminary Notice must be filed prior to drilling a well, and a Water Well Completion Report must be filed upon completion of water well drilling. For additional information, contact Water Well Program staff at 877-472-2619 or NYSWaterWells@dec.ny.gov.


Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Funding

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is soliciting applications from eligible applicants to: 

  • assist in the development and use of innovative activities relating to water workforce development and career opportunities in the drinking water and wastewater utility sector, including green infrastructure training, and 
  • expand public awareness about drinking water and wastewater utilities and connect individuals to careers in the drinking water and wastewater utility sector. 

Applications are due by March 26, 2021. For more information, visit EPA's website


Training Available: FEMA's Community Rating System

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is offering a variety of virtual training opportunities about their Community Rating System (CRS) for communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program. CRS can help NYS communities reduce flood risks and save on insurance costs. 

Details and registration information are available on FEMA's CRS Resources webpage. If you are interested in learning more about the CRS program or have questions about floodplain management, contact Division of Water staff at floodplain@dec.ny.gov.