The Allegany County Board of Legislators adopted a resolution on March 25 supporting the protection of New York State forests and wildlife, while opposing Senate Bill S4408 and Assembly Bill A10483. The board took this action during its meeting, stating that the proposed legislation would allow the state to grant leases or easements for renewable energy installations on designated reforestation areas.
The issue is significant because these public lands serve as important natural resources. The board said that New York’s more than 800,000 acres of publicly controlled forests act as natural air filters, carbon sinks, and climate regulators. These lands also provide habitats for over 10,000 species of wildlife.
During the meeting, the full resolution was read aloud. It highlighted that New York State Environmental Conservation Law defines these lands’ purposes as watershed protection, timber production, recreation, and related uses. The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for managing these areas with a mission to conserve and protect New York’s natural resources while enhancing public health and safety.
The board emphasized that forested lands support economic growth through nature-based tourism and quality-of-life improvements which help attract residents and businesses. According to the board, “the proposed Senate and Assembly Bills run counter to the State Legislature’s stated goals under the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act” by circumventing community input on development siting as well as bypassing local government zoning authority.
In its resolution, the Allegany County Board urged both houses of the legislature along with Governor Hochul to oppose these bills. The board reaffirmed support for responsible renewable energy project siting—especially protecting prime agricultural land—and encouraged prioritizing marginal sites such as brownfields or rooftops instead. Greater county-level participation in project decisions was also advocated.
