New $228M Deal Enhances New York Watershed Water Quality

By Blake Jackson

The Watershed Agricultural Council (WAC) and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced a renewed partnership with a $228 million commitment to protect water quality in the New York City Watershed.

This investment builds upon a 30-year history of collaboration, with DEP previously investing $400 million in watershed protection programs.

The new agreement will support the implementation of best management practices on farms and forests, such as nutrient management plans and cover crops.

It will also fund the acquisition of conservation easements to protect agricultural and forested lands from development.

“This new investment epitomizes DEP’s long-term commitment to advancing our shared interests with our watershed community partners protecting water quality while helping local industry thrive in an evolving market,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala.

“As an avid fan of Pure Catskills products, I am excited to see more over the next decade, and DEP is pleased to be part of the progress and successes the agricultural community in the Catskills and other parts of the watershed has been able to make.”

“This partnership has protected water quality in the Catskills for New York City and has allowed for agriculture to continue to happen here in a way that’s protective for the environment, has really set the standard for around the world,” said DEP Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Water Supply Paul Rush.

The funding will be allocated across various programs, including:

• $35 million for implementing best management practices on farms.
• $6 million for forestry initiatives, such as erosion control and stream crossings.
• $3.8 million for economic viability initiatives, including the Pure Catskills branding campaign and grants to support watershed producers.
• $7 million for the acquisition of new conservation easements.

"While these agreements mark a renewed partnership between the Watershed Agricultural Council and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, they more importantly demonstrate a commitment to upstate farm and forest landowners and ultimately, City water consumers," said WAC Executive Director Ryan Naatz.

WAC Board Chair Wayland "Bud" Gladstone, said "This 10-year contract solidifies the commitment and trust DEP has in our ability to protect farms, forests, the economic viability of the region, and land conservation as we continue to provide clean drinking water for NYC residents."

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