WATERSHED AGRICULTURAL COUNCIL OF THE NEW YORK CITY WATERSHEDS INC

The Watershed Forestry Program (WFP) works with forest landowners, foresters and loggers on a voluntary basis to develop and implement Forest Management Plans (FMP). A FMP gives landowners an opportunity to learn about the important resource they own and its many values (lumber, firewood, aesthetics, habitat, open space, recreation, etc.). The WAC connects forest landowners with watershed-trained forestry consultants and loggers who can assist them in managing their forestland. The WFP also oversees three model forest sites which serve as living classrooms on erosion-control techniques, sustainable timber harvesting, ongoing research and invasive species. Funded by the USDA Forest Service (USFS) as well as DEP, this program also develops and supports economic development strategies to encourage the retention and growth of the forest products industry.

Conservation Eeasement Program (CEP) works to conserve farm and forest land by purchasing the development rights to these lands. Permanent protection of “undeveloped” lands through conservation easements (CEs) is THE most lasting water quality protection. Sale proceeds from CEs expand landowners’ options to continue/exit) farming, to maintain contiguous forested tracts, to invest in/expand their business, or to transfer farm/forest enterprise to next generation. Landowners with approved WFPs are eligible to participate. This program preserves farmland in perpetuity by offering CEs while maintaining present land use. It provides incentives for family farms to continue operating in a competitive market environment and prevents land-use conversion to commercial/industrial/residential development. CEs prevent parcelization and provide immediate economic benefits with estate-planning guidance for participating landowners.

The East of Hudson Program focuses on the needs of the Croton watershed and its landowners. This program follows the same protocols in agriculture, forestry and easements with minor adjustments to accommodate for this filtered water supply system. Currently, 65 farm and forest landowners participate in the Council's programs.

The Economic Viability Program works with Catskill region food producers to assist them develop new skills/markets to improve profitability. Farmer education and producer groups reach the Council's key audiences. 
Pure Catskills, a regional brand and “buy local” campaign, stimulates local economy by uniting food- and wood-based businesses and their products with local/regional consumers. Marketing under one brand identity, Pure Catskill, further extends regional economic strength