NY State Senate Bill 2015-S7476A

Senate Bill S7476A

2015-2016 Legislative Session

Provides for the designation of geologically significant areas, territories and sites throughout the state, and for the establishment of a state geological trail

download bill text pdf

Archive: Last Bill Status - In Senate Committee Rules Committee

Introduced
- In Committee Assembly
- In Committee Senate
- On Floor Calendar Assembly
- On Floor Calendar Senate
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
Delivered to Governor
Signed By Governor

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Actions

View Actions

	Assembly Actions - Lowercase Senate Actions - UPPERCASE
Jun 17, 2016	committed to rules
Jun 06, 2016	advanced to third reading
Jun 02, 2016	2nd report cal.
Jun 01, 2016	1st report cal.1343
May 23, 2016	print number 7476a
May 23, 2016	amend (t) and recommit to environmental conservation
May 04, 2016	referred to environmental conservation

Votes

- Jun 1, 2016 - Environmental Conservation Committee Vote
  S7476A
  
  12
  
  Aye
  
  0
  
  Nay
  
  1
  
  Aye with Reservations
  
  0
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  0
  
  Abstained
  - - Environmental Conservation Committee Vote: Jun 1, 2016
      
      aye (12)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Avella
      
      Espaillat
      
      Funke
      
      Hoylman-Sigal
      
      Kaminsky
      
      Latimer
      
      Little
      
      Marcellino
      
      O'Mara
      
      Ortt
      
      Young
      
      aye wr (1)
      
      LaValle

Bill Amendments

Original

A (Active)

2015-S7476 - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A9881
Current Committee:: Senate Rules
Law Section:: Environmental Conservation Law
Laws Affected:: Add Art 49 Title 5 §§49-0501 - 49-0505, En Con L; amd §100, Ec Dev L
Versions Introduced in Other Legislative Sessions:: 2017-2018: S967, A1505
2019-2020: S1166, A2437
2021-2022: A4328

2015-S7476 - Summary

Provides for the designation of geologically significant areas, territories and sites throughout the state, and for the establishment of a state geological trail.

2015-S7476 - Sponsor Memo

                                 BILL NUMBER:  S7476

 TITLE OF BILL :

An act to amend the environmental conservation law, the highway law
and the economic development law, in relation to establishing a state
geological trail

 PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL :

This bill will designate geoparks and other sites, as well as
establish a state geological trail. The purpose of such trail shall be
to identify and promote such areas, territories, and sites to the
public, and promote the economic, scientific, cultural, and
conservation aspects thereof.

 SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS :

This bill will amend the environmental conservation law to allow the
designation of geoparks and other sites and establish a state
geological trail. A "geopark" is defined as an area or territory of
that state encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance,
for not only geological reasons but also by virtue of their
archeological, ecological, and cultural value. Specific areas,
territories, and sites within the state will be studied and then
designated as geoparks by the commissioner. Each designated area shall

have a management plan designed to foster socio-economic development
that is sustainable, as well as established methods for conserving and
enhancing its geological heritage.

The environmental conservation law will also be amended to create a
state geological planning board consisting of the commissioners of the
Department of Environmental Conservation, Commerce, and the Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and two individuals
appointed by the Governor who shall include one citizen who has been
engaged in trail planning and/or management, and one who teaches
geology and/or is a geology professional. The Speaker of the Assembly
and the Majority Leader of the Senate shall appoint two citizens each
with experience in the fields of ecology, conservation, and/or trail
planning. Each public member of the board shall serve for four years
and the Commissioner of the DEC shall chair the board.

The highway law will be amended so portions of the state highway
system are designated as "state geological trail."

The economic development law will be amended by adding a subdivision
to the general powers of the department in order for the commissioner
to be able to implement the state geological trail and designate
geoparks.

 JUSTIFICATION :

There is an abundance of naturally and culturally significant
geological sites in New York that provide an excellent opportunity for
tourism in the state. These geological sites are what form the state's
special landscapes and provide considerable natural, aesthetic,
recreational, and symbolic importance to New York's residents and
visitors alike.

The science of geology is particularly salient in the State of New
York. Geologists assisted in the development of the Erie Canal, as
well as the development of the state's natural drinking water sources.
Geology has real implications for New Yorkers and this state
geological trail is a tool that can be used to highlight them.


New York State has several landmark geological sites including Niagara
Falls, Letchworth Gorge, and both the Adirondack and Catskill Parks.
These, along with the numerous other geological sites in the state
should be highlighted by the creation of the state geological trail.
Tourists would be drawn to such a distinguished and comprehensive
geological trail and it could be connected in such a fashion that
allows for a rewarding educational experience. Such a connected trail
system would strengthen the recreational well-being of the state of
New York and create an enhanced outdoor experience for recreational
visitors.

 PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY :

New bill in 2016.

 FISCAL IMPLICATIONS :

 EFFECTIVE DATE :
This act shall take effect immediately.

2015-S7476 - Bill Text download pdf

                            
                    S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
________________________________________________________________________

                                  7476

                            I N  S E N A T E

                               May 4, 2016
                               ___________

Introduced  by  Sen.  FUNKE  -- read twice and ordered printed, and when
  printed to be committed to the Committee on Environmental Conservation

AN ACT to amend the environmental conservation law, the highway law  and
  the  economic  development  law,  in  relation to establishing a state
  geological trail

  THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

  Section  1.  Legislative findings and intent. The state of New York is
distinguished by its  unique  and  multiple  geological  resources  like
Niagara  Falls, Letchworth Gorge, and the Adirondack and Catskill parks.
Geological resources give the state special landscapes with considerable
natural, cultural,  economic,  aesthetic,  recreational,  touristic  and
symbolic  importance  to  the  people  of  the state and visitors to the
state. Geologists played an important role in developing the  landscapes
of  the  state, including the planning of the Erie Canal and undertaking
geological surveys and mapping. The legislature finds that it is time to
recognize the geological resources of the state and to utilize  them  to
foster conservation awareness and education. Geological resources can be
connected in a trail system that will strengthen the social and economic
well-being  of  the  people  of  the  state. Geological trails can be an
educational resource that will make the outdoors  more  interesting  and
rewarding.  Therefore,  it  is the intent of the legislature to organize
the planners, educators and conservationists to  plan  and  execute  the
establishment of geological trails with interpretive features across the
width and breadth of the state.
  S  2.  Article  49 of the environmental conservation law is amended by
adding a new title 5 to read as follows:
                                 TITLE 5
                         STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL
SECTION 49-0501. DESIGNATION OF GEOPARKS AND OTHER SITES.
        49-0503. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
        49-0505. STATE GEOLOGICAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD.
S 49-0501. DESIGNATION OF GEOPARKS AND OTHER SITES.
  1. FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS TITLE, A "GEOPARK" IS AN AREA OR TERRITORY
OF THE STATE ENCOMPASSING ONE OR MORE SITES  OF  SCIENTIFIC  IMPORTANCE,
FOR NOT ONLY GEOLOGICAL REASONS BUT ALSO BY VIRTUE OF THEIR ARCHAEOLOGI-
CAL, ECOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL VALUE.

 EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                      [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                           LBD14672-02-6

S. 7476                             2

  2.  THE  COMMISSIONER SHALL STUDY AND DESIGNATE AREAS, TERRITORIES AND
SITES WITHIN THE STATE WHICH CONSTITUTE GEOPARKS AND OTHER  SITES  WHICH
HAVE  GEOLOGICAL  SIGNIFICANCE. SUCH GEOPARKS AND SITES MAY INCLUDE, BUT
NOT BE LIMITED TO:
  A.  CAYUGA  HEIGHTS,  ALONG  STATE  ROUTE THIRTY-FOUR IN THE COUNTY OF
TOMPKINS;
  B. CASCADILLA CREEK, ALONG UNIVERSITY AVENUE IN THE  CITY  OF  ITHACA,
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  C.  ITHACA  FALLS PARK FALL CREEK, ALONG LINCOLN STREET IN THE CITY OF
ITHACA, COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  D. TAUGHANNOCK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  E. NIAGARA RIVER GORGE AND POWER PLANT HAUL ROAD,  IN  THE  COUNTY  OF
NIAGARA;
  F. WHIRLPOOL STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NIAGARA;
  G.  THE  MOUTH  OF  EIGHTEEN MILE CREEK AT LAKE ERIE, IN THE COUNTY OF
ERIE;
  H. BUFFALO CREEK AT BULLISI ROAD, IN THE COUNTY OF ERIE;
  I. FALL BROOK ALONG STATE ROUTE SIXTY-THREE, IN THE TOWN  OF  GENESEO,
COUNTY OF LIVINGSTON;
  J. LEROY QUARRY, IN THE TOWN OF LEROY, COUNTY OF GENESEE;
  K. THE POTSDAM SANDSTONE AT AUSABLE CHASM, IN THE COUNTY OF CLINTON;
  L. AUSABLE FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF CLINTON;
  M. WHITEFACE MOUNTAIN, IN THE COUNTY OF ESSEX;
  N. THE CHATTERMARKS ON BEAR MOUNTAIN, IN THE COUNTY OF ROCKLAND;
  O. THE ERRATIC AND GROVES IN CENTRAL PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NEW YORK;
  P. THE GLACIAL CHANNEL IN CENTRAL PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NEW YORK;
  Q.  THE BURROWS IN SANDSTONE IN WATKINS GLEN, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYL-
ER;
  R. THE UPPER DEVONIAN SHALE, SILTSTONE AND SANDSTONE IN  WATKINS  GLEN
GORGE, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  S. WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  T. LETCHWORTH STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF WYOMING;
  U.  PENN  DIXIE  PALEONTOLOGICAL  AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTER, IN THE
COUNTY OF ERIE;
  V. LAFARGE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF ULSTER;
  W. SENECA STONE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF SENECA;
  X. TAUGHANNOCK PARK ROAD IN TAUGHANNOCK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUN-
TY OF TOMPKINS;
  Y. STATE ROUTE FOUR AND TWENTY-TWO, IN THE TOWN OF  WHITEHALL,  COUNTY
OF WASHINGTON;
  Z.  RONDAXE  ROAD  ON  BALD  MOUNTAIN,  IN THE TOWN OF WEBB, COUNTY OF
HERKIMER;
  AA. CANNAN ROAD, IN THE TOWNS OF EAST MARTINSBURG AND KNOX, COUNTY  OF
LEWIS;
  BB. BARNET GARNET MINE, IN THE COUNTY OF WARREN;
  CC. JOHN BOYD THACHER STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  DD. THE PETRIFIED SEA GARDENS, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  EE. LESTER PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  FF. SARATOGA SPRINGS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  GG. SKYTOP LANE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  HH. SIDNEY MOUNTAIN QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  II. SIDNEY MOUNTAIN BLUESTONE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  JJ. SIDNEY CENTER OUTCROPS, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  KK. SHEETZ QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  LL. PINE HILL ROAD, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  MM. CHIMNEY BLUFFS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF WAYNE;

S. 7476                             3

  NN. WISCORY FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  OO. WHITE CREEK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  PP. SIXTOWN CREEK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  QQ. RUSHFORD DAM PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  RR. CANEADEA GORGE OVERLOOK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  SS. BUTTERMILK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF CAYUGA;
  TT. CHITTENANGO FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF MADISON;
  UU. COHOES FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  VV. CLARKSVILLE CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  WW. JORALEMON TOWN PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  XX. NORMANSKILL GORGE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  YY. BARTON GARNET MINE, IN THE COUNTY OF WARREN;
  ZZ. KIMBERLITE DIKE, IN THE COUNTY OF ONONDAGA;
  AAA. HOWES CAVE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  BBB. HOWE CAVERNS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  CCC. KAATERSKILL FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF GREENE;
  DDD. KNOX CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  EEE. MANORKILL FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  FFF. MCFAIL'S CAVE NATURE PRESERVE, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  GGG. MONTAUK POINT, IN THE COUNTY OF SUFFOLK;
  HHH. MONTOUR FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  III. NIAGARA FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NIAGARA;
  JJJ. ONESQUETHAW CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY; AND
  KKK. STARK'S KNOB, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA.
  3.  FOR  EACH AREA, TERRITORY AND SITE DESIGNATED PURSUANT TO SUBDIVI-
SION TWO OF THIS SECTION, THE  COMMISSIONER,  IN  COOPERATION  WITH  THE
COMMISSIONERS OF TRANSPORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SHALL:
  A.  ESTABLISH  A  MANAGEMENT  PLAN  DESIGNED  TO FOSTER SOCIO-ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT THAT IS SUSTAINABLE;
  B. ESTABLISH METHODS  FOR  CONSERVING  AND  ENHANCING  ITS  GEOLOGICAL
HERITAGE; AND
  C. ESTABLISH BEST PRACTICES FOR CONSERVATION.
S 49-0503. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
  1.  THE  COMMISSIONER, IN COOPERATION WITH THE COMMISSIONERS OF TRANS-
PORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SHALL ESTABLISH A  STATE  GEOLOGICAL
TRAIL  TO  INCLUDE  THE  AREAS,  TERRITORIES AND SITES DESIGNATED BY THE
COMMISSIONER PURSUANT TO SUBDIVISION TWO  OF  SECTION  49-0501  OF  THIS
TITLE.  THE  PURPOSE OF SUCH TRAIL SHALL BE TO IDENTIFY AND PROMOTE SUCH
AREAS, TERRITORIES AND SITES TO THE PUBLIC, AND  PROMOTE  THE  ECONOMIC,
SCIENTIFIC, CULTURAL AND CONSERVATION ASPECTS THEREOF.
  2.  TO  THE  GREATEST  EXTENT  PRACTICABLE, THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL
SHALL INCLUDE AREAS AND SITES ACROSS THE STATE GOING EAST AND WEST,  AND
NORTH  AND SOUTH THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE STATE. THE DESIGNATED PORTIONS OF
THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL SHALL INTERSECT AT THE CITY OF ALBANY,  WHICH
SHALL  BE  DEEMED  TO  BE  THE CENTER OF GEOLOGY OF THE STATE. THE STATE
GEOLOGICAL TRAIL  SHALL  POSSESS  SCIENTIFIC  AND/OR  SCENIC  IMPORTANCE
RELATING TO GEOLOGICAL, AND RELATED CULTURAL, ECOLOGICAL AND ARCHEOLOGI-
CAL  FEATURES.   SUCH TRAIL MAY INCLUDE PORTIONS OF EXISTING TRAILS THAT
MEET THE GEOLOGICAL STANDARDS OF THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
S 49-0505. STATE GEOLOGICAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD.
  1. FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS TITLE, "BOARD" MEANS THE STATE  GEOLOGICAL
PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD ESTABLISHED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.
  2. THERE SHALL BE ESTABLISHED WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT THE STATE GEOLOGI-
CAL  PLANNING  AND MANAGEMENT BOARD. THE BOARD SHALL BE COMPOSED OF NINE
MEMBERS AS FOLLOWS:

S. 7476                             4

  A. THE COMMISSIONER, OR HIS OR HER  DESIGNEE  WHO  IS  AN  OFFICER  OR
EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT;
  B.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE
WHO IS AN OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT;
  C. THE COMMISSIONER OF PARKS, RECREATION AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION, OR
HIS OR HER DESIGNEE WHO IS AN OFFICER  OR  EMPLOYEE  OF  THE  OFFICE  OF
PARKS, RECREATION AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION;
  D. TWO MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR, OF WHOM:
  (1) ONE SHALL HAVE BEEN OR IS ENGAGED IN TRAIL PLANNING AND/OR MANAGE-
MENT, AND
  (2) ONE SHALL TEACH GEOLOGY OR BE A GEOLOGY PROFESSIONAL;
  E.  TWO  MEMBERS  APPOINTED  BY THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE,
HAVING EXPERTISE IN THE FIELD OF ECOLOGY, CONSERVATION  OR  TRAIL  PLAN-
NING; AND
  F. TWO MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE SPEAKER OF THE ASSEMBLY, HAVING EXPER-
TISE IN THE FIELD OF ECOLOGY, CONSERVATION OR TRAIL PLANNING.
  3.  THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD APPOINTED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPHS D, E AND
F OF SUBDIVISION TWO OF THIS SECTION SHALL SERVE TERMS  OF  FOUR  YEARS.
VACANCIES  IN  THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD SHALL BE FILLED IN THE MANNER
PROVIDED FOR ORIGINAL APPOINTMENTS.
  4. THE COMMISSIONER, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE, SHALL BE THE CHAIR OF THE
BOARD. THE BOARD SHALL MEET NOT LESS  THAN  THREE  TIMES  EACH  CALENDAR
YEAR, AND MORE FREQUENTLY AT THE CALL OF THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD.
  5. THE BOARD SHALL ESTABLISH:
  A. CRITERIA FOR SIGNAGE ON THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL, INCLUDING MEANS
OF  PROVIDING INFORMATION ABOUT GEOLOGICAL FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH EACH
PARTICULAR PORTION OF SUCH TRAIL; AND
  B. STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL PUBLICATIONS,  GUIDELINES  FOR  INTERPRETIVE
PROGRAMS  AND THEMES RELATING TO PORTIONS OF THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL,
AND AN INTERNET WEBSITE PROVIDING DIRECTIONAL INFORMATION ON EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTIONS THAT HAVE PROGRAMS RELATING TO THE GEOLOGICAL AND CONSERVA-
TION ASPECTS OF THE PORTIONS OF THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
  6. THE BOARD SHALL ESTABLISH GUIDELINES AND CRITERIA  FOR  THE  DESIG-
NATION  OF VOLUNTEERS, WHETHER THEY BE INDIVIDUALS OR ENTITIES, TO BUILD
AND MAINTAIN PORTIONS OF THE STATE  GEOLOGICAL  TRAIL,  TO  DEVELOP  NEW
SEGMENTS  OF  THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL, AND TO IMPROVE EXISTING TRAILS
SO THAT THEY MAY BE DESIGNATED AS PARTS OF THE STATE  GEOLOGICAL  TRAIL.
SUCH  VOLUNTEERS  MAY  ALSO  CLEAN  UP BRUSH AND DEBRIS, REPLACE OLD AND
DAMAGED SIGNAGE, CONSTRUCT TRAIL SHELTERS AND BUILD BRIDGES.
  S 3. The highway law is amended by adding a new section 344-e to  read
as follows:
  S  344-E.  PORTIONS  OF  THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM TO BE DESIGNATED THE
"STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL". ALL THOSE PORTIONS OF THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM
AS ARE DESIGNATED BY THE COMMISSIONER, AND THE COMMISSIONERS OF ENVIRON-
MENTAL CONSERVATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, IN  FURTHERANCE  OF  TITLE
FIVE  OF ARTICLE FORTY-NINE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION LAW, SHALL
BE DESIGNATED AND KNOWN AS THE "STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL".
  S 4. Section 100 of the economic development law is amended by  adding
a new subdivision 48 to read as follows:
  48.  TO  COOPERATE WITH AND PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF
ENVIRONMENTAL  CONSERVATION  AND   TRANSPORTATION   TO   IMPLEMENT   THE
PROVISIONS  OF  TITLE  FIVE  OF  ARTICLE FORTY-NINE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION LAW.
  S 5. This act shall take effect immediately.

2015-S7476A (ACTIVE) - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A9881
Current Committee:: Senate Rules
Law Section:: Environmental Conservation Law
Laws Affected:: Add Art 49 Title 5 §§49-0501 - 49-0505, En Con L; amd §100, Ec Dev L
Versions Introduced in Other Legislative Sessions:: 2017-2018: S967, A1505
2019-2020: S1166, A2437
2021-2022: A4328

2015-S7476A (ACTIVE) - Summary

Provides for the designation of geologically significant areas, territories and sites throughout the state, and for the establishment of a state geological trail.

2015-S7476A (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

                                 BILL NUMBER:  S7476A

 TITLE OF BILL :

An act to amend the environmental conservation law and the economic
development law, in relation to establishing a state geological trail

 PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL :

This bill will designate geoparks and other sites, as well as
establish a state geological trail. The purpose of such trail shall be
to identify and promote such areas, territories, and sites to the
public, and promote the economic, scientific, cultural, and
conservation aspects thereof

 SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS :

This bill will amend the environmental conservation law to allow the
designation of geoparks and other sites and establish a state
geological trail. A "geopark" is defined as an area or territory of
that state encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance,
for not only geological reasons but also by virtue of their
archeological, ecological, and cultural value. Specific areas,
territories, and sites within the state will be studied and then
designated as geoparks by the commissioner. Each designated area shall
have a management plan designed to foster socio-economic development

that is sustainable, as well as established methods for conserving and
enhancing its geological heritage.

The environmental conservation law will also be amended to create a
state geological planning board consisting of the commissioners of the
Department of Environmental Conservation, Commerce, and the Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and two individuals
appointed by the Governor who shall include one citizen who has been
engaged in trail planning and/or management, and one who teaches
geology and/or is a geology professional. The Speaker of the Assembly
and the Majority Leader of the Senate shall appoint two citizens each
with experience in the fields of ecology, conservation, and/or trail
planning. Each public member of the board shall serve for four years
and the Commissioner of the DEC shall chair the board.

The economic development law will be amended by adding a subdivision
to the general powers of the department in order for the commissioner
to be able to implement the state geological trail and designate
geoparks.

 JUSTIFICATION :

There is an abundance of naturally and culturally significant
geological sites in New York that provide an excellent opportunity for
tourism in the state. These geological sites are what form the state's
special landscapes and provide considerable natural, aesthetic,
recreational, and symbolic importance to New York's residents and
visitors alike.

The science of geology is particularly salient in the State of New
York. Geologists assisted in the development of the Erie Canal, as
well as the development of the state's natural drinking water sources.
Geology has real implications for New Yorkers and this state
geological trail is a tool that can be used to highlight them.

New York State has several landmark geological sites including Niagara
Falls, Letchworth Gorge, and both the Adirondack and Catskill Parks.
These, along with the numerous other geological sites in the state
should be highlighted by the creation of the state geological trail.
Tourists would be drawn to such a distinguished and comprehensive
geological trail and it could be connected in such a fashion that
allows for a rewarding educational experience. Such a connected trail
system would strengthen the recreational well-being of the state of
New York and create an enhanced outdoor experience for recreational
visitors.

 PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY :

New bill in 2016.

 FISCAL IMPLICATIONS :

Undetermined.

 EFFECTIVE DATE :
This act shall take effect immediately.

2015-S7476A (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

                            
                    S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
________________________________________________________________________

                                 7476--A

                            I N  S E N A T E

                               May 4, 2016
                               ___________

Introduced  by  Sen.  FUNKE  -- read twice and ordered printed, and when
  printed to be committed to the Committee on Environmental Conservation
  -- committee discharged, bill amended, ordered  reprinted  as  amended
  and recommitted to said committee

AN  ACT  to  amend  the  environmental conservation law and the economic
  development law, in relation to establishing a state geological trail

  THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

  Section  1.  Legislative findings and intent. The state of New York is
distinguished by its  unique  and  multiple  geological  resources  like
Niagara  Falls, Letchworth Gorge, and the Adirondack and Catskill parks.
Geological resources give the state special landscapes with considerable
natural, cultural,  economic,  aesthetic,  recreational,  touristic  and
symbolic  importance  to  the  people  of  the state and visitors to the
state. Geologists played an important role in developing the  landscapes
of  the  state, including the planning of the Erie Canal and undertaking
geological surveys and mapping. The legislature finds that it is time to
recognize the geological resources of the state and to utilize  them  to
foster conservation awareness and education. Geological resources can be
connected in a trail system that will strengthen the social and economic
well-being  of  the  people  of  the  state. Geological trails can be an
educational resource that will make the outdoors  more  interesting  and
rewarding.  Therefore,  it  is the intent of the legislature to organize
the planners, educators and conservationists to  plan  and  execute  the
establishment of geological trails with interpretive features across the
width and breadth of the state.
  S  2.  Article  49 of the environmental conservation law is amended by
adding a new title 5 to read as follows:
                                 TITLE 5
                         STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL
SECTION 49-0501. DESIGNATION OF GEOPARKS AND OTHER SITES.
        49-0503. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
        49-0505. STATE GEOLOGICAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD.
S 49-0501. DESIGNATION OF GEOPARKS AND OTHER SITES.

 EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                      [ ] is old law to be omitted.

                                                           LBD14672-04-6

S. 7476--A                          2

  1. FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS TITLE, A "GEOPARK" IS AN AREA OR TERRITORY
OF THE STATE ENCOMPASSING ONE OR MORE SITES  OF  SCIENTIFIC  IMPORTANCE,
FOR NOT ONLY GEOLOGICAL REASONS BUT ALSO BY VIRTUE OF THEIR ARCHAEOLOGI-
CAL, ECOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL VALUE.
  2.  THE  COMMISSIONER SHALL STUDY AND DESIGNATE AREAS, TERRITORIES AND
SITES WITHIN THE STATE WHICH CONSTITUTE GEOPARKS AND OTHER  SITES  WHICH
HAVE  GEOLOGICAL  SIGNIFICANCE. SUCH GEOPARKS AND SITES MAY INCLUDE, BUT
NOT BE LIMITED TO:
  A. CAYUGA HEIGHTS, ALONG STATE ROUTE  THIRTY-FOUR  IN  THE  COUNTY  OF
TOMPKINS;
  B.  CASCADILLA  CREEK,  ALONG UNIVERSITY AVENUE IN THE CITY OF ITHACA,
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  C. ITHACA FALLS PARK FALL CREEK, ALONG LINCOLN STREET IN THE  CITY  OF
ITHACA, COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  D. TAUGHANNOCK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF TOMPKINS;
  E.  NIAGARA  RIVER  GORGE  AND POWER PLANT HAUL ROAD, IN THE COUNTY OF
NIAGARA;
  F. WHIRLPOOL STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NIAGARA;
  G. THE MOUTH OF EIGHTEEN MILE CREEK AT LAKE ERIE,  IN  THE  COUNTY  OF
ERIE;
  H. BUFFALO CREEK AT BULLISI ROAD, IN THE COUNTY OF ERIE;
  I.  FALL  BROOK ALONG STATE ROUTE SIXTY-THREE, IN THE TOWN OF GENESEO,
COUNTY OF LIVINGSTON;
  J. LEROY QUARRY, IN THE TOWN OF LEROY, COUNTY OF GENESEE;
  K. THE POTSDAM SANDSTONE AT AUSABLE CHASM, IN THE COUNTY OF CLINTON;
  L. AUSABLE FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF CLINTON;
  M. WHITEFACE MOUNTAIN, IN THE COUNTY OF ESSEX;
  N. THE CHATTERMARKS ON BEAR MOUNTAIN, IN THE COUNTY OF ROCKLAND;
  O. THE ERRATIC AND GROVES IN CENTRAL PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NEW YORK;
  P. THE GLACIAL CHANNEL IN CENTRAL PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NEW YORK;
  Q. THE BURROWS IN SANDSTONE IN WATKINS GLEN, IN THE COUNTY OF  SCHUYL-
ER;
  R.  THE  UPPER DEVONIAN SHALE, SILTSTONE AND SANDSTONE IN WATKINS GLEN
GORGE, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  S. WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  T. LETCHWORTH STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF WYOMING;
  U. PENN DIXIE PALEONTOLOGICAL AND OUTDOOR  EDUCATION  CENTER,  IN  THE
COUNTY OF ERIE;
  V. LAFARGE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF ULSTER;
  W. SENECA STONE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF SENECA;
  X. TAUGHANNOCK PARK ROAD IN TAUGHANNOCK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUN-
TY OF TOMPKINS;
  Y.  STATE  ROUTE FOUR AND TWENTY-TWO, IN THE TOWN OF WHITEHALL, COUNTY
OF WASHINGTON;
  Z. RONDAXE ROAD ON BALD MOUNTAIN, IN  THE  TOWN  OF  WEBB,  COUNTY  OF
HERKIMER;
  AA.  CANNAN ROAD, IN THE TOWNS OF EAST MARTINSBURG AND KNOX, COUNTY OF
LEWIS;
  BB. BARNET GARNET MINE, IN THE COUNTY OF WARREN;
  CC. JOHN BOYD THACHER STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  DD. THE PETRIFIED SEA GARDENS, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  EE. LESTER PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  FF. SARATOGA SPRINGS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  GG. SKYTOP LANE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  HH. SIDNEY MOUNTAIN QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  II. SIDNEY MOUNTAIN BLUESTONE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;

S. 7476--A                          3

  JJ. SIDNEY CENTER OUTCROPS, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  KK. SHEETZ QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  LL. PINE HILL ROAD, IN THE COUNTY OF DELAWARE;
  MM. CHIMNEY BLUFFS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF WAYNE;
  NN. WISCORY FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  OO. WHITE CREEK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  PP. SIXTOWN CREEK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  QQ. RUSHFORD DAM PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  RR. CANEADEA GORGE OVERLOOK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALLEGANY;
  SS. BUTTERMILK FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF CAYUGA;
  TT. CHITTENANGO FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF MADISON;
  UU. COHOES FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA;
  VV. CLARKSVILLE CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  WW. JORALEMON TOWN PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  XX. NORMANSKILL GORGE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  YY. BARTON GARNET MINE, IN THE COUNTY OF WARREN;
  ZZ. KIMBERLITE DIKE, IN THE COUNTY OF ONONDAGA;
  AAA. HOWES CAVE QUARRY, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  BBB. HOWE CAVERNS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  CCC. KAATERSKILL FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF GREENE;
  DDD. KNOX CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY;
  EEE. MANORKILL FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  FFF. MCFAIL'S CAVE NATURE PRESERVE, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE;
  GGG. MONTAUK POINT, IN THE COUNTY OF SUFFOLK;
  HHH. MONTOUR FALLS, IN THE COUNTY OF SCHUYLER;
  III. NIAGARA FALLS STATE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NIAGARA;
  JJJ. ONESQUETHAW CAVE, IN THE COUNTY OF ALBANY; AND
  KKK. STARK'S KNOB, IN THE COUNTY OF SARATOGA.
  3.  FOR  EACH AREA, TERRITORY AND SITE DESIGNATED PURSUANT TO SUBDIVI-
SION TWO OF THIS SECTION, THE  COMMISSIONER,  IN  COOPERATION  WITH  THE
COMMISSIONERS OF TRANSPORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SHALL:
  A.  ESTABLISH  A  MANAGEMENT  PLAN  DESIGNED  TO FOSTER SOCIO-ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT THAT IS SUSTAINABLE;
  B. ESTABLISH METHODS  FOR  CONSERVING  AND  ENHANCING  ITS  GEOLOGICAL
HERITAGE; AND
  C. ESTABLISH BEST PRACTICES FOR CONSERVATION.
S 49-0503. ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
  1.  THE  COMMISSIONER, IN COOPERATION WITH THE COMMISSIONERS OF TRANS-
PORTATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SHALL ESTABLISH A  STATE  GEOLOGICAL
TRAIL  TO  INCLUDE  THE  AREAS,  TERRITORIES AND SITES DESIGNATED BY THE
COMMISSIONER PURSUANT TO SUBDIVISION TWO  OF  SECTION  49-0501  OF  THIS
TITLE.  THE  PURPOSE OF SUCH TRAIL SHALL BE TO IDENTIFY AND PROMOTE SUCH
AREAS, TERRITORIES AND SITES TO THE PUBLIC, AND  PROMOTE  THE  ECONOMIC,
SCIENTIFIC, CULTURAL AND CONSERVATION ASPECTS THEREOF.
  2.  TO  THE  GREATEST  EXTENT  PRACTICABLE, THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL
SHALL INCLUDE AREAS AND SITES ACROSS THE STATE GOING EAST AND WEST,  AND
NORTH  AND SOUTH THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE STATE. THE DESIGNATED PORTIONS OF
THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL SHALL INTERSECT AT THE CITY OF ALBANY,  WHICH
SHALL  BE  DEEMED  TO  BE  THE CENTER OF GEOLOGY OF THE STATE. THE STATE
GEOLOGICAL TRAIL  SHALL  POSSESS  SCIENTIFIC  AND/OR  SCENIC  IMPORTANCE
RELATING TO GEOLOGICAL, AND RELATED CULTURAL, ECOLOGICAL AND ARCHEOLOGI-
CAL FEATURES.
  3.  IN  DEVELOPING  AND  APPROVING  SUCH TRAIL, THE COMMISSIONER SHALL
ENSURE THAT PROPOSED TRAIL ROUTES DO NOT CONFLICT WITH  EXISTING  SCENIC
BYWAYS DESIGNATED PURSUANT TO SECTION THREE HUNDRED FORTY-NINE-DD OF THE
HIGHWAY  LAW OR WINE TRAILS DESIGNATED PURSUANT TO SECTION THREE HUNDRED

S. 7476--A                          4

FORTY-THREE-K OF THE HIGHWAY LAW, AND ENSURE THAT  THE  TRAIL  ROUTE  IS
DESIGNED AND LAID OUT SO THAT IT IS RELATIVELY SIMPLE AND EASY TO FOLLOW
FOR USERS AND CONTAINS FEW BRANCHES OR LATERALS THAT DEAD END.
S 49-0505. STATE GEOLOGICAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD.
  1.  FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS TITLE, "BOARD" MEANS THE STATE GEOLOGICAL
PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD ESTABLISHED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.
  2. THERE SHALL BE ESTABLISHED WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT THE STATE GEOLOGI-
CAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT BOARD. THE BOARD SHALL BE  COMPOSED  OF  TEN
MEMBERS AS FOLLOWS:
  A.  THE  COMMISSIONER,  OR  HIS  OR  HER DESIGNEE WHO IS AN OFFICER OR
EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT;
  B. THE COMMISSIONER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, OR HIS  OR  HER  DESIGNEE
WHO IS AN OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT;
  C. THE COMMISSIONER OF PARKS, RECREATION AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION, OR
HIS  OR  HER  DESIGNEE  WHO  IS  AN OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE OFFICE OF
PARKS, RECREATION AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION;
  D. THE COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE  WHO  IS
AN OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION;
  E. TWO MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR, OF WHOM:
  (1) ONE SHALL HAVE BEEN OR IS ENGAGED IN TRAIL PLANNING AND/OR MANAGE-
MENT, AND
  (2) ONE SHALL TEACH GEOLOGY OR BE A GEOLOGY PROFESSIONAL;
  F.  TWO  MEMBERS  APPOINTED  BY THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE,
HAVING EXPERTISE IN THE FIELD OF ECOLOGY, CONSERVATION  OR  TRAIL  PLAN-
NING; AND
  G. TWO MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE SPEAKER OF THE ASSEMBLY, HAVING EXPER-
TISE IN THE FIELD OF ECOLOGY, CONSERVATION OR TRAIL PLANNING.
  3.  THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD APPOINTED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPHS E, F AND
G OF SUBDIVISION TWO OF THIS SECTION SHALL SERVE TERMS  OF  FOUR  YEARS.
VACANCIES  IN  THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD SHALL BE FILLED IN THE MANNER
PROVIDED FOR ORIGINAL APPOINTMENTS.
  4. THE COMMISSIONER, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE, SHALL BE THE CHAIR OF THE
BOARD. THE BOARD SHALL MEET NOT LESS  THAN  THREE  TIMES  EACH  CALENDAR
YEAR, AND MORE FREQUENTLY AT THE CALL OF THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD.
  5. THE BOARD SHALL ESTABLISH:
  A. CRITERIA FOR SIGNAGE ON THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL, INCLUDING MEANS
OF  PROVIDING INFORMATION ABOUT GEOLOGICAL FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH EACH
PARTICULAR PORTION OF SUCH  TRAIL.  PROVIDED,  HOWEVER,  THAT  ALL  SUCH
SIGNAGE  SHALL  COMPLY WITH THE NEW YORK STATE MANUAL AND SPECIFICATIONS
FOR A UNIFORM SYSTEM OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES AS SUCH MANUAL AND SPEC-
IFICATIONS MAY BE AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME,  CERTIFIED  BY  A  LICENSED
PROFESSIONAL  ENGINEER  WHO  SPECIALIZES  IN TRAFFIC OPERATIONS. FOR THE
PURPOSES OF THIS SECTION, THE TERM "NEW YORK STATE MANUAL AND SPECIFICA-
TIONS FOR A UNIFORM SYSTEM OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES"  SHALL  MEAN  THE
NATIONAL  MANUAL  OF  UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES PROMULGATED BY THE
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION PURSUANT TO SUBPART (F) OF  PART  655  OF
TITLE  23  OF  THE  CODE  OF  FEDERAL REGULATIONS AND THE NEW YORK STATE
SUPPLEMENT ADOPTED BY THE COMMISSIONER  OF  TRANSPORTATION  PURSUANT  TO
SECTION SIXTEEN HUNDRED EIGHTY OF THE VEHICLE AND TRAFFIC LAW; AND
  B.  STATE  GEOLOGICAL  TRAIL PUBLICATIONS, GUIDELINES FOR INTERPRETIVE
PROGRAMS AND THEMES RELATING TO PORTIONS OF THE STATE GEOLOGICAL  TRAIL,
AND AN INTERNET WEBSITE PROVIDING DIRECTIONAL INFORMATION ON EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTIONS THAT HAVE PROGRAMS RELATING TO THE GEOLOGICAL AND CONSERVA-
TION ASPECTS OF THE PORTIONS OF THE STATE GEOLOGICAL TRAIL.
  S  3. Section 100 of the economic development law is amended by adding
a new subdivision 48 to read as follows:

S. 7476--A                          5

  48. TO COOPERATE WITH AND PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO THE  COMMISSIONERS  OF
ENVIRONMENTAL   CONSERVATION   AND   TRANSPORTATION   TO  IMPLEMENT  THE
PROVISIONS OF TITLE FIVE OF  ARTICLE  FORTY-NINE  OF  THE  ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSERVATION LAW.
  S 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

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