Albany, NY – The following is a statement from Erin Crotty, Executive Director of Audubon New York, the 50,000 member state program of the National Audubon Society, on Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to increase the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2015 by $100 million:

“Audubon New York commends Governor Cuomo for including additional funding to protect New York’s natural resources as part of his 2016 agenda.  Increasing funding for the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act is a generous step forward in advancing critical water infrastructure projects across the state.  Clean water is vital for healthy ecosystems, public health, our high quality of life, and a strong economy.  These clean water investments are providing the gift of life to the birds and people of New York.”  

“Audubon once again thanks Governor Cuomo for his strong leadership.  We look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature on securing funding for the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act in the upcoming State budget.”

Audubon New York is the state’s leading voice for the conservation and protection of natural resources for birds. Integrating science, conservation, policy and education, Audubon’s mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitat for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity. With 50,000 members and 27 affiliated chapters state-wide, Audubon New York oversees seven sanctuaries and centers, from Long Island to western New York, and protects priority habitats, including more than 130 Important Bird Areas identified as critical for the conservation of birds.

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