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 fund the Environmental Protection Fund at $300 million.   

“Audubon New York commends Governor Andrew Cuomo’s prominent leadership and bold commitment to protecting and enhancing our environment.  A $300 million Environmental Protection Fund will fund critical projects across the State that protect the environment, enhance habitat, provide cleaner water, and generate economic activity, including creating jobs.  This investment in our natural resources will result in a better quality of life for the people and communities of New York as well as the birds and other wildlife that rely on them for survival.”

“Today’s historic commitment solidifies Governor Cuomo as a champion for the environment.  Audubon looks forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature to advance the protection and restoration of New York’s natural resources and heritage and ensuring a $300 million EPF funding level 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.