Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles Program to rescue stranded animals. The most comprehensive information on the status and locations of New York's rare plants and animals and significant natural communities and habitats. Bureau of Fisheries Visit our fisheries pages for information on fish species and fishing. Bureau of Habitat Take a tour of our programs to protect and maintain New York's rich and diverse ecosystems. Bureau of Marine Resources Take a tour of our programs to protect and enhance marine fisheries and habitats.
Diversity means variety.
In order to support this diversity of animals, there must be a variety of habitats. One hundred and thirty-eight ecological communities have been classified and described in New York. These communities represent areas where some of the 3,603 vascular plants and an estimated 500 non-vascular plants occuring in New York State can be found. The Department has developed many programs as part of its mission to protect and conserve wildlife and important habitats. We invite you to follow the links at left to find out more about these featured programs.