Each species on New York's endangered list is in imminent danger of disappearing from the state. DEC works to protect endangered species that are still living in the state and to restore some species that have disappeared. You can get a list of endangered, threatened and species of special concern from your local DEC office or on this web site. ECO's check pet shops and stores for the illegal sale of protected animals, plants and wildlife products, such as the ivory carvings shown on this card. ECO's also help monitor populations of endangered animals throughout New York State.
Wetlands act like sponges by absorbing water and releasing it during dry time.
The massive root systems of wetland plants help hold the shoreline together. Wetlands offer food, shelter and living space for fish and wildlife. ECOs protect wetlands by enforcing wetland laws. The law protects a 100 foot buffer zone around a freshwater wetland and 300 feet around a tidal wetland. Permits are required to conduct certain activities, such as building a house or a deck or filling in the wetland.