New York State Parks Partners with Audubon New York to Advance Bird Conservation Efforts

ALBANY, NY (07/21/2011)(readMedia)-- The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and Audubon New York, the state program of the National Audubon Society, are pleased to announce the formation of Audubon in the Parks, a program that utilizes the strengths and resources of both organizations to provide a greater, lasting impact on bird conservation throughout the state.

The initiative will form a unique partnership among Audubon New York, its 27 affiliated chapters, and OPRHP and its friends groups, to advance bird conservation in State Parks through outreach, interpretation, and habitat enhancement efforts.

"For many years, Audubon New York has been dedicated to caring for ecosystems and wildlife habitats while promoting the importance of a healthy biodiversity. With this partnership, I look forward to continuing to work with them to preserve and enhance the wonderful natural resources in our State Park system," said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey.

"The New York State Parks system already supports a rich diversity of birds, and through this unique public/private partnership, we'll be undertaking many important restoration and outreach projects to sustain these critical bird habitats for future generations to enjoy," said Audubon New York Executive Director Al Caccese. "As State Parks has been a strong partner in conservation, we are excited to be launching this effort at a time when the state parks system can use all the support it can muster."

A group consisting of OPRHP representatives and Audubon New York staff will guide and coordinate the initiative. The program will aim to promote appreciation and enjoyment of the natural world, with special attention to Bird Conservation Areas (BCAs) and Important Bird Areas (IBAs).

In addition, by maintaining and enhancing New York's priority birds and habitats, Audubon in the Parks will help the State and municipalities to capitalize on the expanding bird watching tourism industry; the fastest growing form of outdoor recreation in the State, generating billions of dollars each year in much needed tourism revenue.

"This collaboration will be enormously helpful in restoring and protecting the many significant and unique bird habitats located in state parks throughout New York. Additionally, this partnership will combine the education and conservation resources of both Audubon and State Parks to continue and expand upon important bird conservation and education activities. Such partnerships are more important than ever during these difficult economic times," said Lucy Rockefeller Waletzky, Chair of the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park will host the inaugural event on Thursday, July 21 at 9 am. To launch the program, representatives from Audubon New York, State Parks, the State Council of Parks, the Putnam Highlands Audubon Society, Friends of Fahnestock and Hudson Highlands State Parks, and friends and volunteers will lead a bird walk, formally present the program, and undertake an invasive species removal project from the Ann Odell Butterfly Garden.

For a full list of Audubon in the Park events, please visit www.nysparks.com.

Audubon New York, the 50,000 member State program of the National Audubon Society, is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitats that supports them. Their national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in positive conservation experiences.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 178 state parks and 35 historic sites. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.