Senator Thompson Seeking Testimony on New York State’s Protection of Wetlands. "Public Hearing to address concerns in relation to the loss of beneficial wetlands."

News from the

New York State Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation

PRESS RELEASE

Contact: Rashied McDuffie (518) 455-3368
Rashied_mcduffie@yahoo.com

Buffalo, NY- New York State Senator Antoine M. Thompson (D-Parts of Erie & Niagara Counties), Chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, announced the public hearing schedule to solicit input and obtain feedback from the public on the protection of wetlands in New York State.

“Wetlands improve drinking water quality, act as natural water filters and absorb flood waters,” stated Senator Thompson. ”The United States loses about 200,000 acres of wetlands every year and considering that these wetlands perform many crucial environmental functions, it has become a priority to protect them.  At the same time we have to find balance between protecting our environment and assisting with economic and community development.”

There are two hearings scheduled in New York State.  They are:

1.  Buffalo – Tuesday, October 20, 2009 from 11am-3pm at the Buffalo Science Museum, located at 1020 Humboldt Parkway Buffalo, NY 14211

2.  Albany – Tuesday, October 27, 2009 from 11am-3pm in Empire State Plaza Meeting Room #4 (Concourse) Albany, NY 12247

These hearings are open to the public to both attend and participate.  Depending on the number of people wishing to testify, some may be asked to provide written testimony, rather than oral testimony.  Those wishing to testify are asked to contact Mr. Rashied McDuffie, Director of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee at (518) 455-3368 or rashied_mcduffie@yahoo.com.

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