2023 ANNUAL REPORT

“I am proud to report that 2023 proved a banner year for the Watershed Agricultural Council (WAC) as full programming not only resumed but surpassed prior budget and implementation marks. Infallible efforts within our core Agriculture, Easements, Economic Viability and Forestry programming, (as well as administrative services oversight), helped pave the way for a host of new initiatives including more robust and longer-term agreements with NYC DEP, future building considerations, and a burgeoning analysis of the impact climate change plays in our region. Moving forward, the WAC reaffirms its commitment to those we serve and is devoted to finding greater efficiency and effectiveness in everything we do. On behalf of the WAC and in recognition of our 30th anniversary, I would like to thank the staff, Board, partners and most importantly our participants for their unwavering support.” 

—Ryan Naatz, Executive Director

Read the pages of the 2023 Annual Report here.

MICRO GRANTS AVAILABLE

The next grant round is now open! Start your new year off right by applying for one of our $5,000 grant opportunities in the following categories:

1) Marketing

2) Staffing

3) Event and/or Mileage

4) Training

The application deadline is 2/29/2024. For eligibility, more information, and to apply online visit: nycwatershed.org/economic-viability/micro-grants-program/.

WATERSHED FORESTRY INSTITUTE FOR TEACHERS

July 29-August 2, 2024

“WFIT will change your life!” WAC is now accepting applications for our annual Watershed Forestry Institute for Teachers (WFIT) to be held July 29-August 2, 2024, at Taconic Outdoor Education Center in Cold Spring, NY. WFIT 2024 is a FREE program for 4-8^th grade teachers and non-formal educators from NYC and the NYC Watershed. Participants earn ~30 CTLE credit hours, practice dozens of hands-on activities, and get trained in the Project Learning Tree and Project WET curricula. Apply online by Friday, May 17.

ADDRESSING WEATHER AND CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGES PRODUCER SURVEY

Attention all NYC Watershed Farmers! WAC, NYC DEP and AgMIP/Columbia Climate School have partnered together on the Climate Action Plan project announced here.

Watershed Farmers with BMPs please take the following survey if you haven't already: NYC Watershed Farmer Climate Survey

WATER RESOURCES ART AND POETRY CONTEST

NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is excited to announce the 38th annual Water Resources Art and Poetry Contest. Second through twelfth grade students in New York City and the East and West of Hudson Watersheds are invited to create original art and compose poetry that reflects an appreciation for our shared water resources. The five central themes of the contest, incorporating STEM and humanities disciplines, include: Water, a Precious Resource; NYC Drinking Water; NYC Wastewater Treatment; Harbor Water Quality and Healthy Marine Ecosystems; and Water Stewardship and Climate Change. Entries will be accepted online from now through Friday, March 1. To learn more and submit entries, visit DEP's website. For questions, contact [email protected]

SEASONAL WATERSHED FORESTRY INTERNSHIP

The WAC Forestry Program is hiring a paid Watershed Forestry Educator Intern for summer 2024. Based out of our Yorktown Heights office, the intern will assist with teacher professional learning and forest landowner outreach and education efforts. Applications are due March 15. 

For details on how to apply, see the announcement flyer and go online here.