Senate Democratic Conference Leader, State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins Accepts Award for Protecting the Adirondack Park

Albany, NY - Democratic Conference Leader, State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, was recently recognized with an Adirondack Council Award for her record of protecting the Adirondack Park.

Senator Stewart-Cousins is recognized for her co-sponsorship of legislation that incorporates climate change planning into the permitting process for facilities such as sewage treatment plants and similarly considers risks like sea-level rise during the application process for state-funded environmental infrastructure projects such as those made possible by the Environmental Protection Fund.

She is also commended for her support of legislation to curtail the spread of aquatic invasive species by better informing boaters of proper vessel washing and drying techniques (known as wash, drain, and dry) and ensuring that boaters follow these common-sense preventative measures.

Further, Senator Stewart-Cousins voted against legislation that would increase the size of ATV’s authorized in New York State; vehicles which are known to cause extensive damage to wetlands and other sensitive natural resources, and that have necessitated costly remediation projects in the Adirondack Park.

“The Adirondack Council has awarded Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins for her leadership in protecting the Adirondack Park from the threats of invasive species, climate change, and inappropriate ATV use,” said Kevin Chlad, Adirondack Council Legislative Director. “The Senator has made it clear we all have a stake in securing the Adirondacks for future generations. Adirondack issues are state issues.”

“I would like to thank the Adirondack Council for presenting me with this award and for their work advocating for policies that preserve the natural character of one of not only our state’s, but our nation’s, greatest resources” said Senator Stewart-Cousins. “ The legislative victories we achieved this year will help protect the park from threats as varied as invasive species, climate change, and irresponsible off-road vehicle use”.