Audubon New York Statement on FY 2013-2014 Executive Budget

The following is a statement from Albert E. Caccese, Executive Director of Audubon New York, the 50,000 member state program of the National Audubon Society, on Governor Andrew Cuomo's 2013-2014 budget proposal.

"During these continued trying economic times, Audubon New York applauds Governor Andrew Cuomo for once again recognizing the important role environmental investments play in the state's economic recovery. In particular, we thank him for his budget proposal which increases funding for the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) to $153 million, ensuring that investments in open space protection, water restoration, and nature centers are enhanced. This renewed attention to the EPF will have wide ranging impacts across New York, and result in significant returns on the states investment."

"We also commend the Governor for his continued attention to the critical infrastructure needs facing our State Parks, and for dedicating another infusion of NY Works capital funding to put people to work upgrading these aging facilities. Our parks provide important destinations for New York's tourist economy, supporting a $4.2 billion wildlife watching industry. Last year, we launched our 'Audubon in the Parks' initiative, a model public-private partnership to enhance habitat and restore natural resources found at our state parks. This new NY Works funding will greatly augment these efforts and ensure these jewels can be safely enjoyed by the 43.7 million visitors that frequent them each year. This initiative, combined with the continued investments in the Department of Environmental Conservation and Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, show the Governor's commitment to our environmental Agencies and programs."

"In addition, the Governor's focus on spurring the transition to a clean energy economy, though investments in the 'New York Sun Solar Program', and Cleaner Greener Communities program is an essential step to combating climate change head on by helping consumers and municipalities bring new renewable energy onto the grid and curb our reliance on fossil fuels. The Governor's additional emphasis on prioritizing a balanced approach to storm risk reduction and climate change adaptation efforts that rely on a mix of structural and natural solutions will certainly help to comprehensively protect coastal communities from future storm events and sea level rise, and create long-term resilience for the region.

"We look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature in the coming months to continue to put people to work protecting and restoring our natural resources, and enhancing eco-tourism initiatives across the state."