The goal of the Federal Endangered Species Act (“ESA”) of 1973 is to create conservation programs and incentive systems to safeguard the nation’s fish, wildlife, and plants. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (“USFWS”) is tasked with overseeing ESA regulations. New York’s various laws and regulations related to water pollution, waste management, and pesticides are tailored to protect wildlife, aquatic …
Laws Regulating Solid & Hazardous Waste in New York
The Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”) was enacted in 1976 to protect citizens from hazardous waste by controlling the manner in which waste is disposed. The New York Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Law is the state counterpart to the RCRA, designed to safeguard the public while encouraging the conservation of energy and natural resources. Both state and …
Laws Regulating Water in New York Agriculture
The Federal Clean Water Act (“CWA”) was enacted in 1972 with the goal of protecting the country’s waterways from pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) is charged with enforcing the CWA at the federal level. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (“DEC”) works at the state level to protect New York’s water resources. While states must adhere to the …