New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Office of Natural Resources, Region 3
21 South Putt Corners Road
New Paltz, New York 12561-1696

Re: Conserving Open Space in New York State 2001 Draft Plan

Dear Mr. Rudge:

I am writing on behalf of Federated Conservationists of Westchester County, Inc., a 36 year old not-for-profit coalition of groups and individuals dedicated to the protection of this region's natural and historic resources and the education of the public about environmental issues. Among many other activities, FCWC has been instrumental in the protection and expansion of open space in Westchester, the creation of a biodiversity program in the county, and the education of the public through its newspaper Westchester Environment and programs for high school students and adults.

New York State's commitment to preserve and expand open space as demonstrated in the Draft 2001 State Open Space Conservation plan is crucial to the protection of our environment and FCWC commends the state for the resources that have been devoted to this program to date. This commitment should not be allowed to falter.

The priority resource areas in Westchester County described in the Plan represent accurately the priorities in this area. We urge that all four areas- the Hudson River Corridor Estuary/Greenway Trail, the Croton section of the New York City Watershed lands, the Westchester Marine Corridor and the Highlands Greenway Corridor - be included in the final version of the plan. FCWC has been privileged to participate as a member in the Region 3 Advisory Committee process and commends the staff for their effectiveness throughout the process and on the fine product reflected in the Plan. We would suggest that a clarification be made adding the areas designated in Westchester to the map on page 292.

Much of the successful history of the open space plan has been due to the availability of funds for acquisition from the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). Local support for open space acquisition has been growing dramatically in recent years with significant commitments of funds by the county and municipalities in Westchester. However, a partnership of resources, including resources from the state through the EPF, is essential for continued success. Funding must be provided for the EPF so that continued progress can be made on preserving our precious resources.

We thank you for the opportunity to comment and look forward to the implementation of the Plan.

Respectfully submitted,

Edna Sussman,
Executive Director