Draft - NEW YORK'S GREAT LAKES BASIN: Action Agenda

NEW YORKS GREAT LAKES BASIN:
Action Agenda
2013

[07-2013 draft]

Coordinated by
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Great Lakes Watershed Program

In partnership with state and federal agencies, municipalities, academic institutions,
non-profits, and community partners throughout NYSs Great Lakes basin.

Andrew M. Cuomo - Governor
Joe Martens - Commissioner
ANDREW M. CUOMO
GOVERNOR
STATE OF NEW YORK
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
ALBANY, NEW YORK 12233-1010
JUL 12 2013
JOE MARTENS
COMMISSIONER
Keepers of New York's Great Lakes:
I am pleased to share the draft New York's Great Lakes Basin: Action Agenda 2013. This action
agenda, more commonly called the Great Lakes Action Agenda, is New York State's only fully-
integrated strategic plan for its portion of the Great Lakes basin - representing a synthesis of
numerous existing binational, federal, and state plans to advance environmental restoration,
sustainable development and economic revitalization.
In collaboration with state agencies and organizations throughout the basin, the Great Lakes Action
Agenda is an integrated planning tool to assist stakeholders in identifying, funding, and tracking
projects in NY's Great Lakes basin. Since then, DEC's Great Lakes program has taken the lead to
further update the Great Lakes Action Agenda, to reHect New York's evolving priorities including
reconunendations set forth by the Oceans & Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation initiative, the
New York State 2100 Commission Report, Regional Economic Development Council strategic
plans, and the ClimAlD Report, among many others.
This plan follows the lead of other successful, integrated approaches to watershed planning,
including the Hudson River Estuary Action Plan and the New York State 25-Year Plan for the Great
Lakes - which have proven to be highly successful in leveraging and competing for federal funding
opportunities, effectively applying state agency resources and authorities, and promoting multi-
stakeholder partnerships to achieve New York State and regional priorities. Indeed, the previous
discussion draft of the Great Lakes Action Agenda successfully integrated federal Great Lakes
Restoration Initiative (GLRI) priorities and has, to date, resulted in the award of over 100 GLRI
projects to various stakeholder organizations valued at more than $50 million.
You are invited to review the enclosed draft action agenda and submit any comments you may
have to Great Lakes Programs Coordinator Donald Zelazny at glakcs@gw.dec.state.ny.us or
(716) 851-7130 by September 1, 2013. Please note that action milestone dates and lead
organizations have been suggested for discussion purposes only and will be finalized following the
stakeholder review period.
Once finalized, the action agenda will enhance New York's strategic approach to effectively
address the most pressing problems, assist stakeholders in leveraging financial resources and human
capital, and create opportunities for basin-wide communication, coordination, and partnership.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Enclosure
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS ........................................................................................... 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................................... 5
VISION .................................................................................................................................................. 5
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 6
WATERSHEDS OF NEW YORKS GREAT LAKES BASIN ................................................................... 9
PRIORITY GOALS .............................................................................................................................. 11
CROSS-CUTTING PRIORITIES .......................................................................................................... 12
AGENDA ORGANIZATION ................................................................................................................. 14
Goal 1: Virtually Eliminate Discharges of Persistent Toxic Substances. ................................... 15
Goal 2: Control Sediment, Nutrient and Pathogen Loadings. .................................................... 18
Goal 3: Accelerate the Delisting of New Yorks Areas of Concern. ........................................... 22
Goal 4: Combat Invasive Species. ............................................................................................ 24
Goal 5: Conserve and Restore Native Fish and Wildlife Biodiversity and Habitats. .................. 27
Goal 6: Conserve Great Lakes Water Supplies. ....................................................................... 30
Goal 7: Enhance Coastal Resiliency and Ecosystem Integrity. ................................................. 32
Goal 8: Promote Smart Growth, Redevelopment and Adaptive Reuse. .................................... 36
Goal 9: Enhance Recreation and Tourism Opportunities. ......................................................... 38
Goal 10: Plan for Energy Development. ................................................................................... 40
COORDINATION APPROACH: GREAT LAKES BASIN PARTNERSHIP (GLBP) ............................... 43
FUNDING APPROACH ....................................................................................................................... 51
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 53
Appendix 1: Integrating Existing Plans and Strategies ......................................................................... 55
Appendix 2: Ecosystem-based Management Vision, Goals and Objectives of Lake Ontario Lakewide
Management Plan (LaMP) ................................................................................................................... 59
Appendix 3: Ecosystem-based Management Vision, Goals and Objectives of Lake Erie Lakewide
Management Plan (LaMP) ................................................................................................................... 62
Appendix 4: Beneficial Use Impairment (BUI) Indicators of NYS AOCs April 2012 ........................... 65

3

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS

ACOE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
AOC Area of Concern
BCA Bird Conservation Area
BMP Best management practice
BNRK Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper
BUI Beneficial Use Impairment
CC Climate change
CFA
CREP
Consolidated Funding Application
Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program
CSC Climate-Smart Communities
CSO Combined sewage overflow
CWSRF Clean Water State Revolving Fund
DNR
EAB
Cornell Department of Natural Resources
Emerald Ash Borer
EBM Ecosystem-based management
EFC New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
EPF Environmental Protection Fund
F & W Fish and Wildlife
FCOs Fish Community Objectives
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FL-LOWPA Finger Lakes Lake Ontario Watershed Protection Alliance
GFLRPC Genesee - Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council
GHG Greenhouse gas
GL Great Lakes
GLAA Great Lakes Action Agenda
GLBAC Great Lakes Basin Advisory Council
GLBP Great Lakes Basin Partnership
GLC
GLFC
Great Lakes Commission
Great Lakes Fishery Commission
GLPF Great Lakes Protection Fund
GLRC Great Lakes Research Consortium
GLRI Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
GLWQA Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement
HUD U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
IBA Important Bird Area
IJC International Joint Commission
IS Invasive species
LaMP Lakewide Management Plan
LE Lake Erie
LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
LEWPA Lake Erie Watershed Protection Alliance
LO Lake Ontario
MDNR Michigan Department of Natural Resources
NDZ No Discharge Zone
NGO Non-governmental organization
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service
NYACD New York Association of Conservation Districts
NYS New York State
NYSDAM New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
4

NYSDEC New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
NYSDOH New York State Department of Health
NYSDOS New York State Department of State
NYSDOT New York State Department of Transportation
NYSERDA New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSG New York Sea Grant
NYSPPI New York State Pollution Prevention Institute
ODW Ohio Division of Wildlife
OGS New York State Office of General Services
OMNR Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
OOWPA Oak Orchard Watershed Protection Alliance
OPRHP New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
PAH Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
PBDE
PCB
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers
Polychlorinated biphenyls
PFBC Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
PRISM Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management
RAC Remedial Advisory Committee
RAP Remedial Action Plan
REDC Regional Economic Development Council
RIBS Rotating Integrated Basin Studies
SCORP Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
SLRWP St. Lawrence River Watershed Partnership
SSO Sanitary sewer overflow
SUNY ESF State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
SWCD Soil & Water Conservation District
TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load
TNC The Nature Conservancy
USFWS U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
USGS
WWTP
United States Geological Survey
Wastewater Treatment Plant

___________________________________New Yorks Great Lakes Action Agenda DRAFT 2013
5

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Numerous government and private organizations have worked for many years to achieve economic
renewal and environmental restoration within New Yorks Great Lakes Basin. In 2009, the Federal
government reinvigorated the national priority of restoring the Great Lakes through the Great Lakes
Restoration Initiative (GLRI). Answering the call to action under the GLRI, New York has made
significant progress. This Action Agenda brings together many existing environmental, social and
economic goals previously identified for New Yorks Great Lakes St. Lawrence River region, using an
integrated ecosystem-based management approach. New investment and coordinated action can
improve the health of the ecosystem, enhance economic vitality across the region, and yield important
benefits for major upstate urban centers such as Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Watertown, as well
as waterfront communities all along the lakes and rivers of the region. We need to strengthen
partnerships to attain identified goals, and to leverage needed funding from federal, state and other
sources.

This Action Agenda is not a new planning exercise, but rather is a synthesis of numerous existing
plans, developed over many years, that established a range of important restoration, protection, and
sustainable development goals for New Yorks Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River region. The ten
priority goals, and many of the identified actions, are drawn from those plans, and are aligned with the
priorities in the GLRI. These goals establish a framework for New Yorks near-term priorities.

This Agenda:

Highlights the most urgent actions needed to achieve resiliency, restoration, and sustainable
management outcomes for New Yorks Great Lakes to benefit our communities;

Promotes coordination between the multiple entities implementing these actions; and

Seeks to leverage the capacity and financial resources needed to take action.

This Action Agenda is envisioned to be a living document that can be updated as needed.
Engagement with the regions stakeholders is critical in identifying the most appropriate and high
priority actions needed to accomplish each goal.

Clearly, no one agency or entity has the resources to single-handedly achieve the regions desired
ecosystem outcomes. This Action Agenda seeks an integrative approach by bringing together and
rallying the diverse capacity and talents of the regions stakeholders, including federal and state
agencies, local government, not-for-profit organizations, academia, business and citizens.

VISION

To ensure that the quality of life and standard of living of people are improved by evolving a shared
vision of the Great Lakes ecosystem so that societys actions and attitudes strengthen the viability and
sustainability of this ecosystems unique and valuable resources.

6

INTRODUCTION

THAT sentiment of the human heart which experiences pleasure in the sublime and
the beautiful in nature, can find on the waters of the Great Lakes and in their environment
a wealth of enjoyment that is offered nowhere else on the globe.
1

The Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River Basin is an incredible asset of state, national and international
significance. The freshwater resources of the Great Lakes are invaluable to two countries. The
drainages of Lakes Ontario and Erie and the Niagara and St. Lawrence Rivers are complex
ecosystems that support important habitats and biological communities, and comprise a vital part of
New Yorks natural and cultural heritage and economy. Within New York, these basins total over 700
miles of shoreline and 40% of the States surface area second largest among all Great Lakes states.
These watersheds encompass much of the geography of New York State, and consist of a rich diversity
of communities and natural resources. The combination of diverse topography and geologic formations
with abundant precipitation forms the basis for a complex system of groundwater and surface waters,
which sustains an array of dependent ecosystems, including springs, streams, wetlands, nearshore and
offshore habitats. Over 4 million New Yorkers utilize the regions waterbodies as a source of drinking
water, for recreational activities, support agricultural production, transport people and goods, and for
countless other activities.

Attention to the ecological health of the Great Lakes has a long history. The Boundary Waters Treaty
of 1909 was the first to establish principles for international cooperation to sustainably manage shared
waters. The treaty was followed by the bi-national Niagara River Water Diversion Treaty of 1950; the
Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries of 1954, which created the Great Lakes Fishery Commission; and
the Great Lakes Basin Compact of 1955, which created the Great Lakes Commission and yielded the
Great Lakes - St. Lawrence River Ecosystem Charter in 1995.

Concerns in the early 1960s about deteriorated conditions in the lakes led to lengthy negotiations
between the national governments of the United States and Canada. The ground-breaking 1972 Great
Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) established cooperative programs to address water quality
impairments, particularly phosphorus and bacteria from municipal and industrial sources. The
Agreement set, on a bi-national basis, basin-wide water quality objectives and included commitments to
design, implement and monitor municipal and industrial pollution control programs, in conjunction with
state and provincial governments. A revised Agreement, signed in 1978, added the goal of virtually
eliminating the discharge of persistent toxic substances, as well as a broader goal "to restore and
maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the waters of the Great Lakes Basin
Ecosystem." The GLWQA and its amendments remain in effect today and guide many of our activities.

A solid body of good work and environmental improvement has taken place since the bi-national
agreements were first signed. An array of governance structures, advisory bodies and scientific
organizations has been established. Numerous analyses and studies have taken place, and an
equivalent number of plans and strategies have been prepared to point the way to progress.
Government at all levels, academia, and non-governmental organizations on both sides of the border
have dedicated significant financial resources, and have successfully taken actions to improve
environmental conditions in the Great Lakes.

1
History of the Great Lakes, .J. B. Mansfield, ed., Volume I, 1899, p 10.
7

Despite this progress, considerable work remains to be
completed to fulfill the many restoration and protection goals
for the Basin. Unfortunately, as a result of piecemeal
implementation activities and limited funding over many years,
our collective efforts in the Basin have yet to achieve the
fundamental promise of the Clean Water Act to restore and
maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the
Nations waters. Emerging issues, such as climate change,
environmental justice concerns, deposition of air-borne toxics,
sustainable water quantity management, invasive species and
pharmaceuticals found in our water bodies have brought
attention to the need to address growing threats to human and
ecosystem well-being. Adequate public funding has not been
consistently available to tackle the many actions that have
been identified in the various Great Lakes plans, programs and
strategies. President Obamas Great Lakes Restoration
Initiative (GLRI), enacted in 2009, brought a renewed federal
commitment to restoring and protecting the Great Lakes-St.
Lawrence River. Sustained federal investments in GLRI on a
multi-year basis will be important to effectively implement plans
for Great Lakes revitalization.

Over many decades, the Great Lakes region has been in
economic transition. The regions urban centers share many of
the same characteristics and problems experienced by other older industrial urban economies
throughout the rust belt. The economic stalwarts of the past, manufacturing and the use of waterways
for transportation, have experienced declines. Contaminated industrial sites, job loss, demographic
shifts, vacant property, and suburbanization have contributed to the economic stress and challenges
faced by the regions urban centers. By emphasizing urban redevelopment and making important
strategic investments, drawing on their existing competitive economic assets, these communities can
accomplish their locally-driven community and economic goals consistent with the environmental
restoration goals envisioned by the GLWQA.

To meet the challenges we still face in the Great Lakes Basin and to use our limited funding most
effectively, New Yorks Great Lakes Action Agenda will promote successful environmental protection,
restoration and sustainable development in a manner that: 1) addresses needed actions on a priority
basis, 2) provides for maximum coordination and collaboration between the many implementing entities
throughout the region, and 3) seeks to identify the capacity and financial resources needed to act on
the identified priorities.

Climate change, sound science and ecosystem-based management are key cross-cutting State
priorities integrated into this Action Agenda. Overwhelming scientific evidence shows that New York
States air and water quality, forests, fish and wildlife habitats, people and communities are at risk from
climate change. Continental-scale changes in climate may result in such impacts as changing lake
conditions and lake levels, decreased winter ice cover, increased lake-effect snow events, and related
water-management, navigation, and hydroelectric production issues. Longer shipping seasons may
provide more opportunity for the introduction of invasive species.
2
Changes in the regions
temperatures could affect fish communities, commercial and recreational fishing and the tree

2
Rosenzweig, C., W. Solecki, A. DeGaetano, M. O'Grady, S. Hassol, P. Grabhorn (Eds.). 2011. Responding to Climate Change in New York
State: The ClimAID Integrated Assessment for Effective Climate Change Adaptation. Synthesis Report. New York State Energy Research
and Development Authority (NYSERDA), Albany, New York.
Ecosystem-based management
means an integrated approach to
management that considers the
entire ecosystem, including
humans, to achieve improved
environmental conditions and
sustained ecosystem services that
support human needs and social
goals. Ecosystem-based
management differs from current
approaches that usually focus on a
single species, sector, activity or
concern; it considers the
cumulative impacts of different
sectors, including human, social
and economic activities.
from the Scientific Consensus
Statement on Marine Ecosystem-
Based Management (2005)
8

composition of the regions forests. Recognizing the
relationship between the Great Lakes ecosystem and climate
change, the Action Agenda seeks to support the States dual
climate change goals: to mitigate climate change, through
reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and
enhancement of carbon sinks, and to adapt to the expected
effects of climate change.

In an effort to promote a more integrated response to
ecosystem problems, a 2006 New York State law
3
directed
State agencies to employ ecosystem-based management
(EBM) principles in agency programs. Within this Action
Agenda key EBM principles have been used to guide New
Yorks future restoration, protection and conservation actions.

Sound scientific information and decision-making is the
underpinning that supports all the Great Lakes Action Agendas
goals and actions. Because of its relative importance to
numerous objectives, it has been specifically identified as a
cross-cutting goal.

All State agencies, local governments, scientific and
educational institutions and other stakeholders are key partners
that can help achieve the Action Agenda goals and priority
actions. Through collaborative governance and ecosystem-
based decision-making, we will be more effective in our
planning and implementing our identified protection, restoration
and development objectives. Integrating international, national,
state and local goals and objectives will help ensure successful
long-term sustainability and ecosystem health. Through a
successful, coordinated effort, New Yorks Great Lakes region
will be economically stronger and more ecologically resilient for future generations.

3
New York Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Act, Article 14, New York State Environmental Conservation Law.
The Great Lakes are one of Americas most importantand often-overlookednatural features.[T]he
restoration of the Great Lakes would yield numerous direct, specific economic benefits: Restoring the lakes will
lead to direct economic benefits of $6.511.8 billion dollars from tourism, fishing, and recreation
aloneRestoring the Great Lakes will directly raise coastal property values $12 billion to $19 billion by
remediating Areas of Concern (AOCs)Restoring the Great Lakes will reduce costs to municipalities by $50 to
$125 million dollars All told, the direct economic benefits of restoring the Great Lakes total at least $50
billion.

Is an expenditure of this magnitude [$26 billion] worth it? With so much at stake, the restoration plan [Great
Lakes Restoration Strategy] clearly seems to be a worthwhile, indeed necessary, investment.

John C. Austin, Soren Anderson, Paul N. Courant, Robert E. Litan, September 2007, "Healthy Waters, Strong
Economy: The Benefits of Restoring the Great Lakes Ecosystem" and Americas North Coast: A Benefit-
Cost Analysis of a Program to Protect and Restore the Great Lakes, The Brookings Institution.

Principles of Ecosystem-based
Management
Place-based focus
Protection of ecosystem
structure, function and key
processes
Interconnectedness within and
among systems
Integration of ecological,
social, economic and
institutional perspectives
Sustainable human use of the
ecosystem
Stakeholder involvement
Collaboration
Scientific foundation for
decision-making
Adaptive management
9

WATERSHEDS OF NEW YORKS GREAT LAKES BASIN

Place-based, integrated and scientifically-grounded management of natural resources, human activities
and environmental quality are fundamental elements of EBM which guide this Action Agenda. Many
State and Federal programs have increasingly recognized that specific ecosystem resources can be
more effectively managed through planning and implementation at a watershed scale. Using a
watershed approach, managers have the advantage of being able to consider common variables,
geographic features, history and the many linkages and relationships between aquatic environments,
their associated terrestrial watersheds and the range of human activities affecting those areas.

New York's portion of the Great Lakes Basin can be divided into four sub-basins in order to more
effectively organize future implementation efforts and to address important characteristics unique to
each of them: Lake Erie (including the Niagara River); Southwest Lake Ontario (including the Genesee
River); southeast Lake Ontario (including the Seneca, Oneida, and Oswego Rivers); and Northeast
Lake Ontario (including the St. Lawrence and Black Rivers).
4

4
Geographic descriptions can be found at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/30483.html.
<t O;..__.25'====50:;..
Sub-Basin's within New York's
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
Lllkc Oll/ario
A leglJeny
10

NEW YORKS GREAT LAKES ACTION AGENDA

The ten priority goals identified in this Action Agenda are drawn from numerous existing plans,
developed over many years, which have established restoration, protection, and sustainable
development goals for the Great Lakes and New York State (see Appendix 1). In the following pages,
challenge statements for each goal provide the context and define the issues. The goals are intended
to establish a framework for specific strategic actions that need to be undertaken in the near-term. This
Agenda was purposely developed to align with the priorities identified in President Obamas Great
Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).

To be effective, we need to move beyond the aspirational goals and objectives embodied in the existing
plans for the Great Lakes and define the most urgent concrete actions and measurable targets that
should be undertaken in the near term. Active stakeholder engagement will continually update this
Action Agenda, and will contribute to the identification of additional specific priority actions that should
be included. As highlighted in the Coordination Approach section of this document, work plans will be
developed by regionally-focused workgroups to guide implementation of the Agenda at the local level.
These work plans will be based on the priority goals and actions set forth in this Agenda, but will be
locally relevant including such detailed project-level information such as timelines, project lead
information, and total funding required per project.

11

PRIORITY GOALS

CLEAN UP POLLUTION SOURCES AND RESTORE BENEFICIAL USES

1. Virtually Eliminate Discharges of Persistent Toxic Substances to protect biological and human
health.

2. Control Sediment, Nutrient and Pathogen Loadings so that drinking water quality is protected,
desired aquatic biotic communities flourish, humans and wildlife are protected from coastline
health hazards, and natural processes are sustained.

3. Accelerate the Delisting of New Yorks Areas of Concern
5
by implementing actions focused on
restoring beneficial uses impaired by pollutants.

CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES

4. Combat Invasive Species to sustain a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and to maintain diverse
economic and recreational opportunities.

5. Conserve and Restore Native Fish and Wildlife Biodiversity and Habitats to achieve and sustain
resilient ecosystems and vibrant economies.

6. Conserve Great Lakes Water Supplies in a manner that recognizes the renewable but finite
supply of the waters of the Great Lakes Basin for the long-term sustainable use and enjoyment
of the public.

PROMOTE RESILIENT COASTAL COMMUNITIES & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

7. Enhance Coastal Resiliency and Ecosystem Integrity through restoration, protection, and
improved resource management.

8. Promote Smart Growth, Redevelopment and Adaptive Reuse to create a sustainable and
vibrant economy in the Great Lakes ecosystem.

9. Enhance Recreation and Tourism Opportunities that capitalize on the rivers and lakes, beauty,
and the natural and cultural resources that defines the character of the Great Lakes - St.
Lawrence River region.

10. Plan for Energy Development consistent with natural resource conservation and supportive of
the States energy and climate change goals.

5
Areas of Concern (AOCs) are specific geographic areas where significant pollution problems have been identified as impairing beneficial
uses such as swimming, eating fish, or drinking water. New Yorks current AOCs are the Buffalo River, Niagara River, Eighteen Mile Creek,
Rochester Embayment, and St. Lawrence River at Massena. A sixth AOC, Oswego River/Harbor was delisted in 2006.
12

CROSS-CUTTING PRIORITIES

An effective response to Great Lakes challenges demands a broad array of expertise and depth of
resources beyond what any single agency or organization can contribute. Furthermore, it requires
broad-based public support and a solid understanding of issues and how to address them. To most
effectively address the multi-faceted challenges of NYs dynamic Great Lakes basin, three cross-cutting
recommendations have been identified that will guide and support successful implementation of the
Agendas Priority Goals. Cross-cutting actions are included below each recommendation to provide
additional substance and direction.

Promote partnerships and coordinated action among organizations.
Leveraging resources, expertise, and manpower through partnerships and coordinated action is
essential to achieving our shared vision for NYs Great Lakes basin. Organizations working to
restore and protect the Great Lakes ecosystem - including federal, state, provincial and local
agencies, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and private entities will require
new mechanisms for communication and collaboration that encourage these diverse groups to
work collaboratively toward well-known, common goals while building organizational capacity.

Support regional watershed groups and alliances to facilitate implementation of more
effective and efficient resource actions at the local government level.
Enhance coordination of watershed plan implementation within the basin.
Institute a sustainable mechanism or entity to oversee coordination of the Great Lakes
Basin Partnership.
Reinvigorate the NYS Coalition of Great Lakes Legislators and the Great Lakes Basin
Advisory Council to strengthen New York State leadership in Great Lakes decision-
making processes and policy development.

Enhance coordinated science, monitoring and information management.
To better understand and address our regions most pressing natural resource issues and
vulnerabilities, the study, monitoring, and documentation of environmental conditions is
required. Research and monitoring programs are critical in providing information on air
deposition, climate change, the status of wildlife and habitats, invasive species and water
quality, and to increase management effectiveness. The findings of scientific research and
long-term monitoring will inform better management planning and decision-making for Great
Lakes resources. The wealth of scientific information and plans for the Great Lakes may be
compelling, but their value will not be realized if they are not accessible, widely known, and put
to good use. Furthermore, projects that employ an adaptive management approach, where
practitioners learn by doing, achieve the most impressive and sustainable outcomes, while also
contributing to improved future project designs.

Identify and prioritize research needs that are consistent with state and federal priorities,
foster collaboration, and support adaptive management activities.
Enhance the use of SUNY Centers of Excellence and extension programs to provide
specialized public policy, scientific and technical assistance.
Convene an annual Great Lakes scientific summit to enhance communication and
application of research findings throughout the basin.
Develop information management mechanism to track and document results of scientific
research and conservation projects occurring in NYS's Great Lakes basin.
13

Support environmental education and outreach initiatives.
Environmental education is essential to increase public understanding of Great Lakes
resources, build support for needed actions, and encourage future stewardship by user groups.
To make progress in a manner that maintains the strategic vision, stakeholders and the general
public need readily accessible information about the state of each lake and its ecosystem,
including existing conditions, stressors and their trends, progress over time, and emerging
issues. Similarly, support for Great Lakes stewardship efforts will be enhanced through a
concerted outreach effort that targets a diversity of audiences, including students, elected
officials, and residents throughout the basin.

Coordinate and provide learning opportunities for government decision makers at all
levels to integrate ecosystem-based management principles into decision-making
activities.
Increase environmental education staffing to increase understanding of and appreciation
for Great Lakes ecosystems.
Synthesize and publicize existing information on conditions in Lake Erie and Lake
Ontario ecosystems and the Niagara and St. Lawrence Rivers.
Develop Great Lakes educational resources, interpretation programs and curriculum
development toolkits.
Support campaigns that build understanding of and appreciation for Great Lakes
ecosystems, environmental stewardship, place-based knowledge, the impact of
individual and cumulative human behavior on ecosystem health, and best practices.


14

AGENDA ORGANIZATION

For each goal, priority actions are organized to correspond to the adaptive management cycle as
presented by The Conservation Measures Partnerships Open Standards for the Practice of
Conservation
6
. Adaptive management is a structured, iterative decision-making process designed to
achieve measurable conservation results while maximizing learning opportunities that inform future
project development. It is also a leading principle of ecosystem-based management, recognizing the
importance of scientifically-based decision making, and stakeholder involvement and outreach.

Diagram 1. The five main steps within an adaptive management cycle.

Where applicable, priority actions listed under each goal below are organized sequentially, to
correspond to the five steps of the adaptive management cycle.

Adaptive Management Step Action Agenda Strategy Key
1. Conceptualize Research/ Assessment
2. Plan Actions and Monitoring Monitoring/ Planning
3. Implement Actions and Monitoring Action by Category
4. Analyze, Use, Adapt Evaluation
5. Capture and Share Learning Education/ Outreach

6
The Conservation Measures Partnership (2007). Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation.
http://www.conservationmeasures.org/initiatives/standards-for-project-management.
2. Plan Actions and
Monitoring
Develop goals. strategt&s
assumptions, and objedives
Develop monitoring plan
Develop operational plan
3. Implement Actions
and Monitoring
Develop W<lrk plan and
timeline
Develop and (efine budget
Implement plans
1. Conceptualize
Define initial team
Define scope. vision. targets
Identify critical ItlrealS
Complete situation analysis
Conservation
Measures
Partnership
Open Standards
Prepare data for analysis
Analyze (esulls
Adapt strate>lic plan
4. Analyze, Use,
Adapt
Documenlleaming
Share learning
Create learning environment
5. Capture and Share
Learning

15

Goal 1: Virtually Eliminate Discharges of Persistent Toxic Substances to protect
biological and human health.

Challenge:

Throughout much of the 20
th
century, industrial development supported the economy and prosperity of
the Great Lakes region. One unfortunate legacy of this industrial activity is the well-documented
contamination in places such as Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Rochester and Massena. Persistent,
bioaccumulative toxic substances that were released into the environment include mercury,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Mirex, chlorinated dioxins, dieldrin, dioxins/furans, and others. The
occurrence of these substances in the environment have necessitated restrictions on human
consumption of fish and disposal of dredged sediments, and pose continued risks to the publics health
and to wildlife. Due to the persistence of these contaminants, removal of new inputs will not suffice to
eliminate the ecological impacts of formerly discharged substances. Continued source control and
additional remediation activities are needed. In certain cases, natural attenuation or biodegradation
and periodic monitoring may be the most viable response actions.

While the presence of legacy pollutants in waters and sediments of the Great Lakes basin have
generally been declining, a variety of new substances of emerging concern could significantly impact
biological and human health within the region. Chemicals used in manufacturing, agriculture, and in
domestic settings, which may have negative human and/or ecological health effects, are now being
detected in Great Lakes fish and other media. These chemicals include brominated flame retardants,
brominated degreasing and dry-cleaning fluids, chlorinated compounds, fluorinated compounds,
pharmaceuticals, personal care products, current-use pesticides, and other compounds.

The continued presence of toxic substances in Great Lakes fish serves as a reminder that despite the
many regulatory and remediation efforts of the past decades, there is much more work to do.
Additional clean-up and prevention of exposure to past discharges remains a fundamental priority.

Goal 1 - Priority Actions:

To achieve the goal of virtually eliminating discharges of persistent toxic substances, implementation of
the following priority actions is needed:

7
Objectives are drawn from numerous existing plans, and state and federal priorities, as identified in Appendix 1.
8
Milestones are provided to exemplify which actions and deliverables may help us achieve each objective. Most milestones have not
been developed in collaboration with stakeholders and so will be subject to review and modification during public review activities.
# Strategy Objective
7
Milestone
8
Desired Outcome Lead
Supports
Goal
1.1 Assessment/
Research
Research the effects of emerging
chemicals of concern (e.g.
pharmaceuticals) on NYs Great Lakes fish
and wildlife.

2017: Complete research
study.
Understand the effects
of emerging chemicals
of concern on fish and
wildlife.
GLRC 3, 5

16

9
CC indicates that this action supports climate change adaptation and/or mitigation strategies.
10
XC indicates that this action supports cross-cutting priorities (pg 12).
#

Strategy Objective Milestone Desired Outcome Lead
Supports
Goal
1.2 Assessment/
Research
Complete a basinwide characterization of
WWTP effluent to assess levels of legacy
(PCBs) and emerging contaminants
(PBDEs, pharmaceuticals) that are
discharged.
2015: Complete study.
2017: Utilize study results
to evaluate effectiveness of
collection programs and
other contaminant
reduction strategies.

Quantify contaminant
levels discharged from
WWTPs.
NYSDOH,
NYSDEC
5, 9
1.3 Monitoring/
Planning
Investigate the use of coal tar within the
Great Lakes basin and develop reduction
strategies to reduce associated polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)
contamination.

2013: Investigation
completed and reduction
strategies identified
Understand coal tars
role in local PAH levels
NYSDEC 3
1.4 Monitoring/
Planning
Identify areas of contaminated sediments
and groundwater, and quantify discharge
to surface waters in order to direct
remedial actions where needed and
feasible.
2015: Assessments in high
priority areas completed.
2017: Remediation actions
underway
Remediation of
contaminated areas
within AOCs
NYSDEC 3, 9
1.5 Monitoring/
Planning
Assess the concentrations and
significance of contaminants (e.g.
persistent organic pollutants, mercury,
pesticides, metals) and emerging
chemicals of concern (e.g.
pharmaceuticals) in NYs Great Lakes fish,
wildlife, and vulnerable fish-consuming
populations.
2015: NYSDOH baseline
contaminant level study
completed
2017: Assessments
completed for all AOCs
Ongoing: Assess other high
priority areas, including
areas with contamination
not attributed to AOCs.
A better understanding
of legacy and emerging
contaminant exposure
levels, and the
geographic and
temporal trends of
contaminants in Great
Lakes wildlife and
human populations.
NYSDEC
(wildlife),
NYSDOH
(humans),
NYSERDA
(mercury)
1.13, 3, 5,
9
1.6 Action - Project Remediate high priority contaminated sites
(e.g., posing risk to public health,
vulnerable to climate change impacts, etc).
2015: Remediation projects
underway.
Prevent toxic discharges
to benefit public and
environmental health.
NYSDEC 3, CC
9

1.7 Action - Project Reduce discharge of chemicals of concern
from stormwater and CSOs through
integrated strategies (e.g. green
infrastructure, infrastructural solutions, etc)
2017: Implement
stormwater control projects,
based on assessment
(1.3).
Reduced chemical
discharges from
stormwater
Various 2, 3, 5, 8,
9
1.8 Action - Project Significantly reduce toxic chemical use
from industrial and commercial sources by
providing tax incentives, loans and grants
to New York businesses, as well as direct
technical assistance through the New York
State Pollution Prevention Institute, the
states network of Manufacturing
Extension Partnership centers, and other
programs.
2017: Reduce toxic
chemical use from 10
industrial or commercial
sources.
Toxic chemical use is
decreasing across basin
NYSPPI 3
1.9 Action -
Regulation
Implement actions to achieve TMDLs for
mercury and PCBs within waterbody
segments on New York States 303d list.
Varies: Set and meet
TMDL schedules.
Improvement in
parameters of concern
NYSDEC 3
1.10 Action -
Regulation
Establish No Discharge Zones
throughout the States Great Lakes waters
to prevent dumping of biological wastes
and harmful bio-treatment chemicals.
2017: Establish NDZs for
NY Great Lakes basin
NDZs are established
for target areas in GL
basin
NYSDEC,
EPA
9
1.11 Evaluation Monitor mercury air concentrations and
deposition to track the effectiveness of
regional mercury emission reduction
programs.
Ongoing: Trends are
reported every 3 years
Mercury levels are
decreasing
Atmospheric
Mercury
Network,
NYSDEC

1.12 Education/
Outreach
Provide outreach and education to the
community, schools and other institutions
on green chemistry, green engineering,
and other pollution prevention practices,
and the impact of pollution on our health
and ecosystems.
2017: Hold __
outreach/educational
events.
Pollution prevention
practices are
implemented by target
groups
NYSDEC,
NYSPPI
XC
10


17

#

Strategy Objective Milestone Desired Outcome Lead
Supports
Goal
1.13 Education/
Outreach
Enhance the New York State Department
of Health Consumption Advisory
communication and outreach.
Ongoing: Expand and
continue collaborating with
a diverse network of
partners including state,
federal, tribal, and local
partners.
Inform all anglers and
everyone who eats sport
fish about the NYSDOH
fish consumption
advisories; increase
understanding of the
advisories; increase the
number of people who
follow advisory
guidance.
NYSDOH,
BNRK,
NYSDEC
XC
1.14 Education/
Outreach
Ensure the safe disposal of e-waste and
household hazardous waste through
community education and collection
programs, and the promotion of product
stewardship initiatives.
2017: Hold _ collection
events.
Increasing trends in
proper waste disposal
NYSDEC XC
1.15 Education/
Outreach
Prevent the discharge of pharmaceuticals
from major sources through community
education and collection programs, and by
promoting best management practices and
process changes at health care
institutions, livestock and food industries,
and other manufacturers.
2017: Discharges
prevented or reduced from
10 major sources.
Pharmaceutical
discharges are reduced
NYSDEC,
NYSDOH
XC

18

Goal 2: Control Sediment, Nutrient and Pathogen Loadings so that drinking water quality
is protected, desired aquatic biotic communities flourish, humans and wildlife are protected
from coastline health hazards, and natural processes are sustained.

Challenge:
Although water quality in the open waters of the lakes has greatly improved in recent decades, it
remains an ongoing concern in the nearshore environment, where most people interact with the water.
Poor water quality in nearshore areas, including embayments (bays, river mouths and wetlands),
impacts aquatic life, limits recreational use, and ultimately affects economic development in the region.
Both Lake Ontario and Erie suffer from pathogens, nutrient loading, and algal blooms. Phosphorus
remains a key issue in Lake Erie. While inputs of total phosphorus to Lake Erie have remained
relatively constant over the past 15 years, the combined impacts of changing agricultural practices,
stormwater and wastewater management processes, zebra and quagga mussel impacts on nutrient
dynamics in the nearshore areas, timing of major storms, and changes in the food web have resulted in
a significant increase in dissolved reactive phosphorus, a type of phosphorus that is readily bioavailable
and has been implicated in the recent increase of harmful algal blooms in Lake Eries western basin.

Pollutants enter the lakes via rivers, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, sewage treatment plant
outfalls, combined sewer overflows, waste sites, on-site septic systems, contaminated sediment and
surface runoff and groundwater discharge from urban and agricultural areas. Therefore a diversity of
strategies is required to adequately manage these unwanted inputs. Priorities for controlling sediment,
nutrient, and pathogen loadings include:

Gain a better understanding of nearshore effects from nutrient loading and linkages to land-
based sources to inform target locations for management actions.
Reduce phosphorus loading and associated harmful algal blooms, excessive nutrient run-off
and shoreline erosion through point source and non-point source pollution control.
Develop watershed plans (e.g. EPA Nine-Element plans) to reduce nutrient and pathogen
loadings, including development of any data needs for those plans.
Develop mitigation plans for combined sewer overflows (CSOs) to reduce microbiological
contamination found at beaches and resulting beach closures. Mitigation plans should account
for the expected increase of severe weather events resulting from climate change.
Investments in land use planning and management, water reuse and recycling, green
infrastructure
11
and traditional engineered solutions are needed to improve wastewater
management.

To best target the most needed water quality improvements in the near term, existing plans and
assessments should be used to target actions to the locations with the most severe impairments or the
greatest need, such as impaired waterbody segments included in New York State Waterbody
Inventory/Priority Waterbodies Lists
12
, the Intended Use Plan for the Clean Water State Revolving
Fund, LaMPs, RAPs and watershed programs and plans.

11
The network of existing and to be restored natural lands that provide ecosystem services, such as the provision for clean water.
12
The following documents provide the listings of impaired waters within the Great Lakes Basin:
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwlblcklist.pdf
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwlgeneslist.pdf
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwllontlist.pdf
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwlniag10list.pdf
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwlorfllist.pdf
http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/pwlstlwlist.pdf

19


To achieve the goal of controlling sediment, nutrient and pathogen loadings, implementation of the
following priority actions is needed:

13
Watershed management planning guidance is currently available from a variety of sources, including the EPAs Nine-Element Guidance
and the NYS Department of States Watershed Planning Guidebook. Selection of a guidance template may vary depending on watershed
condition, project goal, and intended funding source for implementation, among other factors.

# Strategy Objective Milestone Desired Outcome Lead
Supports
Goal
2.1 Assessment/
Research
Study point and non-point sources of
pathogens and nutrients that have resulted
in closures of town, county, and State park
beaches.
2015: Conduct sanitary
surveys/water quality
monitoring at public
beaches to identify
pollution sources;
recommend pollution
remediation measures; and
develop predictive models
of beach water quality
based on the measurement
and analysis of
environmental factors.
Prioritization of
sources/beaches for
remediation.
NYSDOH,
NYSDEC,
various
2.10, 9
2.2 Assessment/
Research
Study land based sources of nutrients and
correlative parameters (including spatial
and temporal trends) and their effects on
the near shore zone.
2017: Conduct monitoring
in LO tributaries and
nearshore. Develop
correlative and causal
parameters and effects.
Prioritization of
watersheds with nutrient
issues.
NYSDEC,
EPA,
USGS
Various local
entities
3, 9
2.3 Monitoring/
Planning
Complete EBM watershed plans
13
for high
priority coastal watersheds.
2015: Identify priority
watersheds.
2017: Secure funding for
two plans.

Restoration and
protection of water
quality and biodiversity;
EBM approach
effectively integrates
economic development,
green infrastructure,
smart growth, heritage
conservation strategies,
etc.
Genesee/
Finger Lakes
Regional
Planning
Council,
OOWPA,
FL-LOWPA,
NYSDEC
2.4, 5, 8
2.4 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop nutrient and sediment reduction
strategies for sub-watersheds within the
priority watersheds (e.g. Genesee R, Black
R, and direct tributaries).
2015: Establish nutrient
criteria and load reduction
goals.
2017: Develop nutrient and
sediment reduction
strategies for 3 priority sub-
watersheds.
Reduced nutrient and
sediment loadings.
NYSDEC,
other
2.3, 9
2.5 Action - Policy Protect sensitive lands in priority
watersheds through available land-use
controls (easements, acquisition,
regulatory protections, etc), with an
emphasis on riparian restoration and
green infrastructure.
2013: Identify priority lands
and protection
mechanisms.
2015: 3 green infrastructure
pilot projects.
2017: Protect/restore ___
ft. of riparian buffers.
Increase infiltration
capacity and reduce
stormwater flows.
Various 5, 7
2.6 Action - Project Accomplish needed water infrastructure
improvements that abate or eliminate
CSO/SSOs contributing to chemical and
biological pollution within NY GL
watersheds.
2014: Identify/ prioritize
CWSRF loans, grants, and
other investment programs
for project implementation.
2017: Ten projects
completed or underway.

Reduce deficient public
and commercial septic
systems; Abate or
eliminate CSO/SSOs.

Various 3, 5, 9

20

Supports
Goal
2.7 Action - Project Implement urban and agricultural best
management practices in priority
watersheds, including: 18-Mile Creek
(Niagara County), Oak Orchard Creek,
Johnson Creek, Salmon Creek (Monroe
County).
2014: Acquire/leverage
funding for 3 projects.
2017: Implement 3
projects.
Restore natural
sediment and
phosphorus cycles in
nearshore waters.
NRCS,
SWCDs,
NYSDAM
5
2.8 Action - Project Develop an agricultural soil health initiative
that provides incentives and technical
assistance to implement practices such as
cover cropping, nutrient management,
conservation tillage, and conservation
cropping systems.
2014: Initiate partnership
with USDA to develop
program
2016: Program underway
Improve soil health to
increase
infiltration/water
retention capacity,
reduce stormwater
runoff, reduce need for
pesticides, improves
drought tolerance and
carbon sink properties.
NYSDAM,
USDA,
SWCDs
CC,1, 5,
6, 7
2.9 Action - Project Enhance and publicize incentives for
farmer participation in agriculture
conservation programs (e.g. NYS
Conservation Reserve Enhancement
Program).
2014: Identify incentives
2016: Distribute incentive
information to __ farmers.
Increased participation
in and implementation of
conservation programs.
NYSDAM ,
USDA,
SWCDs
CC, 5
2.10 Action - Project Remediate point and non-point source
pollution that has resulted in closures of
town, county, and State park beaches.
2017: Remediate 3 sources
(e.g. mitigating outfalls and
expanding capacity at
sewage pump stations,
studying and reducing
Cladophora blooms,
identifying water quality
improvement projects, and
reducing nutrient loads in
target watersheds).
Reduced beach
closures.
Various 3, 5, 9
2.11 Action -
Regulation
Ensure appropriate point source permits
for nutrients are implemented and
enforced for municipal and industrial
wastewater treatment facilities,
concentrated animal feeding operations
and municipal separate storm sewer
systems within priority watersheds.
2017: Achieve a ___
compliance rate.
Enhanced regulation
results in reduced
loadings.
NYSDEC 2.4, 3
2.12 Action -
Regulation
Implement actions to achieve numerical
nutrient standards within waterbody
segments on New York States 303d list
for TMDL implementation within GL
watersheds
2017- Achieve numerical
standards for TP TN
Enhanced regulation
results in reduced
loadings.
NYSDEC 2.4, 3
2.13 Evaluation Document the benefits achieved through
implementation of the new State law which
bans phosphorous in detergents and
fertilizers.
2017: Report benefits of
regulation.
Increased public support
for nutrient regulations.
GLRC?
2.14 Education/
Outreach
Organize state, county, municipal
agencies to propose new urban
stormwater standards for water balances
in new developments, using widely
accepted LEEDS standards.
2017: Outreach to 10
municipalities.
Increased
implementation of LEED
stormwater standards.
Various 8, XC
2.15 Education/
Outreach
Encourage municipalities and (agricultural)
landowners to implement flood mitigation
actions (e.g. soil health practices, natural
infrastructure, etc) to reduce peak flows in
high risk streams.
2017: Outreach to 50
municipalities/landowners.
Reduce stormwater
runoff, sedimentation,
and flood risk.
Various 7, XC
2.16 Education/
Outreach
Implement educational programs to
encourage homeowners and land care
providers to adopt organic land care
practices through the Be Green in the
Great Lakes project and other similar
efforts.

2017: Implement 5
educational programs.
Reduced nutrient loads
from residential sources.
NYSDEC,
other
1, XC

21

Supports
Goal
2.17 Education/
Outreach
Develop a web-based GIS application that
lets the public query local water bodies for
data, including summarizing information on
water quality and threats, fish
contaminants, pollution sources, and
emerging issues in need of research and
surveillance.
2017: Develop
comprehensive information
management tool
Increase awareness of
water quality and related
issues.
GLC,
NYSDEC,
OGS
9, XC

22

Goal 3: Accelerate the Delisting of New Yorks Areas of Concern by implementing actions
focused on restoring beneficial uses impaired by pollutants.

Challenge:
Areas of Concern (AOCs) were first designated on a binational list more than twenty years ago to
focus federal, state and local government efforts within those designated geographic areas most
impacted by chemical and other pollution. Since then, the Oswego River is the only AOC in the U.S. to
have been officially delisted. In order to achieve full de-listing of New Yorks other five AOCs, (i.e.,
Buffalo River, Niagara River, Eighteen Mile Creek
14
, Rochester Embayment and the St. Lawrence River
at Massena) many implementation projects are needed to eliminate the identified beneficial use
impairments (BUIs) specific to each AOC.

In each AOC, the State in cooperation with the AOC Coordinator and local citizens Remedial Advisory
Committee (RAC), has developed a Stage 2 Addendum
15
, or action plan, that describes the problems
and causes of the impairments and recommends various remedial or regulatory measures to
satisfactorily resolve the problems so conditions in the AOC are no longer significantly worse than other
comparable areas in the region. Priority actions needed to restore beneficial uses are described in the
Stage 2 RAP Addendums for each AOC and are available on DECs Great Lakes webpage
(http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/25562.html). These plans will be essential in directing federal funding to
accomplish local restoration projects within each AOC.

To support a de-listing proposal, New York must complete needed management, remedial/restorative
and preventative actions and demonstrate a beneficial use is no longer impaired. When the data
shows all BUI delisting targets have been achieved, then DEC can submit a proposal to the EPA and
IJC for their review and concurrence, to determine if the AOC designation for that area can be removed
in its entirety. New York has created a handbook Guidance for (Re-designation) Delisting of Great
Lakes Areas of Concern (AOCs) and their Beneficial Use Impairment (BUI) Indicators in New York
State to guide local communities and advisory committees through the documentation and review
process.


To achieve the goal of accelerating the delisting of New Yorks Areas of Concern, implementation of the

14
Eighteenmile Creek was included on the federal Superfund National Priorities List in 2012.
15
In 2012, each AOC developed a Stage 2 Addenda, which is an update to the original Remedial Action Plan that summarizes existing
impairments, their causes, and identifies various actions needed for full restoration.
16
Buffalo River Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper, Niagara River NYSDEC, Eighteenmile Creek Niagara County SWCD, St. Lawrence River at
Massena NYSDEC, Rochester Embayment Monroe County Department of Health
Supports
Goal
3.1 Assessment/
Research
Reassess the status of impairments of
beneficial uses in Areas of Concern
caused by chemical pollutants.
2017: Reassess impairment
status in NYS AOCs.
Reassessment
informs priority
remediation actions to
achieve BUI removal.

AOC
Coordinating
Orgs
16

5, 9

23

Supports
Goal
3.2 Action - Project Establish an integrated monitoring
program based on GLAA goals to: 1)
support implementation of RAPs and
LaMPs; 2) detect contaminant trends in
stream water quality and biological
indicators (e.g. fish, wildlife, and
vulnerable human populations); 3) track
down sources of toxics and contaminants
of concern; 4) assess management
practices and biological indicators; 5)
support existing NYSDEC monitoring
efforts by RIBS and F&W programs.
2015: NYSDOH baseline bio-
monitoring project data
become available
2017: Establish integrated
monitoring program.
Enhanced
understanding,
protection, and
management of NYs
portion of Lake Erie,
Lake Ontario, Niagara
River, St. Lawrence
River, and each AOC.
Data informs AOC
remediation and
delisting actions.

NYSDEC,
NYSDOH
1, 2, 5
3.3 Action - Project Implement priority actions listed in Stage 2
RAP Addenda
(http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/25562.html)
for each NYS Area of Concern.
2015: Secure funding to
implement 7 priority actions
among five AOCs.
2017: Five projects
Removal of BUIs and
delisting of NY AOCs.
NYSDEC,
AOC
Coordinating
Orgs
1, 2, 5
3.4 Action - Project Lead aggressive efforts to remediate
contaminated sediments that are the most
significant cause of BUIs in each AOC.
2017: Remediation projects
underway in each AOC.
Removal of BUIs and
delisting of NY AOCs.
NYSDEC 1
3.5 Action - Project Complete needed actions to complete
characterization of beneficial uses in
AOCs
2015: Delisting Documents
for 7 BUIs among 5 AOCs
2015: Delisting of Rochester
Embayment AOC
Delisting of BUIs in
AOCs; Delisting
Rochester
Embayment AOC
RAP
Coordinators
NYSDEC

3.6 Action - Project Implement an ecosystem-based
management (EBM) pilot project that
integrates pollutant reduction strategies
with ecosystem and brownfield restoration,
urban redevelopment, and environmental
justice community revitalization.
2017: Complete Niagara R /
Scajaquada Creek EBM
demo project.
Utilize EBM to support
AOC delisting goals.
NYSDEC,
BNRK,
others
All
3.7 Education/
Outreach
Promote collaboration and public outreach
to achieve strategic approach, consensus
and beneficial results.
Ongoing: Quarterly RAC
meetings.
2013: Develop AOC- specific
outreach plan.
Collaborative process
leverages capacity
and resources to
achieve delisting
criteria.
AOC
Coordinating
Orgs
XC

24

Goal 4: Combat Invasive Species to sustain a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and to
maintain diverse economic and recreational opportunities.

Challenge:
Throughout the Great Lakes, invasive species are considered among the most significant causes of
impairment to water quality and healthy fish and wildlife populations and habitats.
Impacts on native community structure and ecosystem function can lead to dramatically altered
environmental conditions with serious socio-economic impacts, and in some instances, may have
implications for human health.

The ecosystems of the Great Lakes have been altered by past invasive species introductions, and
remain vulnerable to future introductions through numerous pathways, such as maritime commerce,
aquaculture, trans-basin canals and waterways, recreational activity and commercially sold organisms.
More than 180 non-native aquatic species have become established in the Great Lakes, including
zebra and quagga mussels, sea lamprey, and round goby. Terrestrial invasive species include the
emerald ash borer, kudzu, and feral pigs. In recent decades the average rate of discovery has been
one species every eight months and the economic losses in the Great Lakes Basin are estimated at $5
billion annually.

Preventing the introduction of new invasive species populations is a key State priority for restoring New
Yorks AOC habitat-related BUIs, lakewide ecosystem quality and biodiversity objectives, and
revitalizing urban communities. Species with a high potential for introduction in the near future include
Asian carp, golden mussel, northern snakehead, water chestnut, and hydrilla. Newly introduced
species often go undetected until their populations are large and well-established, facilitated by a lack
of natural predators, pests and parasites in the new location; thus, eradication is rarely a viable option.
Rapid response and control programs are currently the most effective mechanisms for managing
invasive species.

In addition, anticipated changes in environmental conditions due to climate change will have
consequences throughout the ecosystems of the Great Lakes Basin. These include land use and water
quality changes, as well as human-induced disturbances which may result in new, or altered, transport
and introduction mechanisms and have the potential to increase introduction, establishment and
distribution of invasive species.


To achieve the goal of combating invasive species to sustain a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem,
implementation of the following priority actions is needed:

Supports
Goal
4.1 Assessment/
Research
Evaluate technical alternatives (i.e. in-situ
barriers, boat lifts, etc) and their potential
legal/social/economic implications to
ensure the region's canals and waterways
are not vectors for spreading invasive
species.
2014: Evaluation completed. Development of
enhanced
management
alternatives for canal
system.

NYS Canal
Corp, GLRC
5, 9, XC

25

Supports
Goal
4.2 Assessment/
Research
Conduct a study on the economic impact
of invasive species within New York State.
2015: Study completed. Understanding of
economic impacts
informs prioritization of
control efforts.
GLRC 5, 9, XC
4.3 Assessment/
Research
Conduct research to improve early
detection and management of invasive
species (e.g. identification of likely
pathways of invasion, development of
innovative control tools)
2013: Priority research needs
are identified
2015: Five studies are
Improved detection
and management
capabilities.
Invasive
Species
Research
Institute/
Cornell U.
5, 9, XC
4.4 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop rapid response plans to address
high priority invasive species (e.g. Asian
Carp).
2013: Complete draft Asian
Carp Plan.
Reduced risk of
introduction and
spread of invasives.
NYSDEC,
PRISMs
5, 9
4.5 Action -
Capacity
Increase enforcement of existing related
laws and regulations, e.g. ballast water
management, live bait, firewood
import/movement restrictions and EAB
quarantine regulations.
2017: Increase enforcement
capacity.
Increased compliance
with laws and
regulations
NYSDEC 5, 9
4.6 Action -
Capacity
Increase state, regional and local capacity
to respond to new or additional invasive
species discoveries.
2014: Secure funding for
response activities
2015: Facilitate creation of 3
regional rapid response
teams

Enhanced state and
local response
coordination and
capacity
PRISMs,
other
5, 9
4.7 Action -
Capacity
Provide technical and financial assistance
to Great Lakes watershed communities
impacted by invasive species.
2017: Conduct 3 assistance
projects (e.g. remove EAB
infested or at risk trees,
identify and chemically treat
high value urban trees,
restore green infrastructure
by replacing impacted trees
with non-host species)
Communities have
increased capacity to
address invasive
species.
NYSDEC,
PRISMs
5, 9
4.8 Action -
Funding
Secure a sustainable source of funding for
all Great Lakes PRISMs.
2013: Fund all GL PRISMs Enhanced PRISM
capacity.
NYSDEC 5, 9
4.9 Action - Policy Encourage the development of
environmentally protective national ballast
water discharge standards by providing
input to EPA and Coast Guard regulatory
initiatives.
2017: Discharge standards
are in place.
Reduced introductions
via ballast water.
NYSDEC 5, 9
4.10 Action - Project Facilitate the development, testing and
implementation of shipboard ballast water
treatment technology for use in freshwater
by participation in the Great Ships'
Initiative and Ballast Water Collaborative.
2017: Develop and test two
new technologies.
Development and
implementation of
effective ballast water
treatment technology.
NYSDEC 5, 9, XC
4.11 Action - Project Implement integrated control strategies to
address high-priority aquatic and terrestrial
invasive species (e.g. sea lamprey,
hydrilla, etc).
Reduce impacts of
invasives on fisheries,
recreation, and native
habitat.
NYSDEC,
GLFC, other
5, 9
4.12 Action - Project Implement a demonstration project on
ecologically sensitive, coastal lands to
effectively control aquatic and terrestrial
invasive species to protect public health
and enhance recreational uses.
2014: Identify and fund
project.
2017: Project completed.
Enhanced
understanding of
management
techniques.
OPRHP,
NYSDEC
5, 9
4.13 Action - Project Install boat cleaning stations and
informational kiosks regarding invasive
species at high-priority public boat
launches and marinas.
2017: Install 20 educational
kiosks at high-use boat
landings
Reduced spread of
invasives.
NYSDEC,
Paul Smiths
College, NY
NYSG,
Finger Lakes
Institute
5, 9, XC
4.14 Action -
Regulation
Enact appropriate regulations to minimize
the introduction and spread of invasive
species via boats/ motor vehicle transport
and commercial activity.

2017: Enact NYS list law Reduce introduction
and spread of
invasives.
NYSDEC 5, 9

26

Supports
Goal
4.15 Education/
Outreach
Improve invasive species data
management efforts (e.g. document the
distribution of existing invasive species,
conducting forest and water body
inventories, survey for invasive species
and diseases in Great Lakes watersheds).
2015: Support Natural
Heritage Programs IMap
Invasives initiative and
Cornell Cooperative
Extensions Invasive Species
program.
Improved data
management supports
control efforts.
Natural
Heritage
Program,
Cornell
Cooperative
Extension IS
program
9
4.16 Education/
Outreach
Support federal, state, and county invasive
species outreach and education initiatives.
2017: Support 10 initiatives. Reduced introductions
and enhanced
response capacity.
Various 5, 9, XC
4.17 Education/
Outreach
Develop and implement collaborative
social marketing campaigns to reduce
introduction of invasive species by live
bait.
2017: Develop and
implement a social marketing
campaign.
Reduced introductions
by live bait.
PRISMs,
other
5, 9, XC

27

Goal 5: Conserve and Restore Native Fish and Wildlife Biodiversity and Habitats to
achieve and sustain resilient ecosystems and vibrant economies.

Challenge:

The Great Lakes diverse habitatsthe wetlands, the aquatic plant beds, the shoreline and the
extensive network of riparian corridorsare vitally important to the Lakes ecosystem, providing
important habitat for fish and wildlife, improving water quality, and supporting recreational and other
human uses. Wetlands and riparian buffers serve an important role in filtering contaminants from
runoff, maintaining water quality, and slowing stormwater flows. Freshwater wetlands also provide
important food sources for many organisms, offer refuge for migratory waterfowl, and serve as
breeding, spawning, and nursery grounds for native fish and wildlife species. Tributaries and nearshore
habitats in the lakes are critical to the reproduction of many Great Lakes fish during their most
vulnerable life stages.

Significant amounts of nearshore and wetlands habitats have been lost or fundamentally altered in the
Great Lakes due to development, incompatible land use, altered hydrology, increased runoff of
nutrients and sediment, invasion by non-native species and unnatural water level regulation by the
International Joint Commission (IJC). It is essential to preserve and restore natural systems and
functions to ensure that the full range of ecosystem services and uses, including biological,
recreational, and scenic values, are maintained and enhanced into the future. Some key conservation
priorities for conserving and restoring biodiversity and habitats include:

Habitat restoration and improvements in aquatic habitat connectivity have been identified as key
objectives for the restoration of Atlantic salmon, Lake Sturgeon, American eel and Lake Trout in
the 2005 State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.
Implementation of Fish Community Objectives (FCOs), designed to balance competing human
uses, including the desire to restore native fish populations such as Lake Trout and deepwater
ciscoes, while maintaining a viable, productive sportfishery.
The Lake Ontario LaMP and Binational Biodiversity Conservation Strategy aims to address five
critical threats: incompatible development, invasive species, dams and barriers, non-point
source pollution, and climate change. A binational biodiversity strategy is also being developed
for Lake Erie, to complement the Lake Erie LaMP.

Successful fish and wildlife management and conservation in the Great Lakes Basin is dependent on
managing assemblages of species and their habitats, typically on a landscape conservation scale. This
requires an inter-jurisdictional, holistic view of ecosystems and strategic habitat conservation which fully
considers relationships between species and their habitat needs over the course of their lifecycles,
managing land use and the cumulative impact of human activities, thereby best enhancing native
biodiversity and habitats, as well as managing the impacts of established invasive species where
possible.


28


To achieve the goal of conserving and restoring native fish and wildlife biodiversity and habitats,
implementation of the following priority actions is needed:

Supports
Goal
5.1 Assessment/
Research
Assess possible spawning areas for Lake
Herring in the southern embayments of
Lake Ontario, to increase fish diversity and
to provide an alternative prey source for
native top predators.
2015: Secure project funding Increased
understanding of
lower food web
dynamics.
NYSDEC,
USGS,TNC,
Cornell DNR
9
5.2 Assessment/
Research
Conduct research study to understand
how epilimnetic zooplankton declines,
changes in zooplankton community
structure/distribution are affecting prey
fish.
study.
Increased
understanding of
lower food web
dynamics.
GLRC, TNC,
USGS,
Cornell DNR
9, XC
5.3 Assessment/
Research
Define the trophic pathway of botulism
toxin to fish and birds. In particular, a
rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive assay for
quantification of the botulism toxin needs
to be developed for tracking the toxins
transmission pathway through the aquatic
food web.
study.
Development of
management
practices to prevent
and/or predict
botulism outbreaks
GLRC, TNC,
USGS,
Cornell DNR
9, XC
5.4 Assessment/
Research
Assess presence and population effects of
environmentally available endocrine
disruptors by determining the prevalence
of intersex individuals in fish populations in
the Great Lakes and selected tributary
streams.
study.
Understanding of
impacts of endocrine
disruptors on fish
populations.
GLRC 1, XC
5.5 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop an adaptive monitoring plan to
detect, record, and analyze changes in fish
and wildlife populations, species range,
habitat composition, natural cycles, and
fish and wildlife health in order to assess
the impacts of climate change.
2014: Create web-based
climate change data
repository for NYS.
2015: Develop monitoring
plan.
Enhanced
understanding of
impacts to wildlife as a
result of climate
change.
NYSERDA,
Northeastern
Climate
Monitoring
Network
CC, XC
5.6 Monitoring/
Planning
Identify and restore lands/waters essential
for improving terrestrial and aquatic habitat
connectivity.
2015: Identify target habitats
2017: Implement project to
enhance connectivity
Enhanced connectivity
to facilitate species
movement and
adaptation to climatic
changes.
Various CC, 5.9
5.7 Monitoring/
Planning
Support the development and
implementation of the Lake Erie
Biodiversity Conservation Strategy.
2014: Strategy is completed Action plan guides LE
conservation efforts
NYSDEC XC
5.8 Action - Project Implement recommended actions for
targeted priority locations, as identified in
the Lake Ontario Binational Biodiversity
Conservation Strategy (e.g., Ontario Bays,
Salmon River, Sandy Creeks, Black River,
Oswego River, Lakeshore marshes,
Irondequoit Creek, Lower Genesee River
and Braddock Bay).
2017: Implement 5
actions/projects
Enhanced protection
of LO water quality
and biodiversity
TNC,
USFWS,
other
2, 7
5.9 Action - Project

Conserve and restore high priority
unprotected and vulnerable lands (e.g.
wetlands, shorelines, tributary floodplains,
islands and lands buffering coastal and
aquatic systems).
2015: Select priority sites for
protection, restoration, and/or
acquisition (as identified in
NYS Open Space
Conservation Plan , etc)
2017: Actions underway to
conserve/restore 5 sites
Enhanced
conservation of
natural systems to
support wildlife
habitat, recreation,
and economic
development.
TNC, others 2, 7
5.10 Action - Project Implement management guidance for state
Bird Conservation Areas and Important
Bird Areas in the Great Lakes basin.

2017: Implement projects at 3
target BCAs/IBAs.
Enhanced protection
of native birds and
their habitats.
NYSDEC,
Audubon
9

29

Supports
Goal
5.11 Action - Project Expand the Trees for Tribs program and
other riparian enhancement programs (e.g.
NYS CREP) in the Great Lakes basin.

2013: Secure funding
2014: Start Trees for Tribs
program
Reduce streambank
erosion, increase
habitat, enhance
connectivity, and
facilitate adaptation to
extreme weather
events.
NYSDEC CC, 2, 3
5.12 Action - Project Continue efforts to monitor and restore
selected native fish species, including
Lake Trout, Atlantic Salmon, Lake
Sturgeon, American Eel, herring, and
deepwater ciscoes. Efforts include the
development and/or implementation of
restoration plans, and assessing the
effectiveness of various stocking
strategies, habitat enhancements, species
strains, and mitigation measures.
2015: Securing needed
funding and staff
2017: Expand and/or
implement new
monitoring/restoration efforts
Native fish populations
are increasing.
NYSDEC,
USGS, TNC,
OMNR,
PAFBC,
ODW,
MDNR
XC
5.13 Action - Project Map freshwater wetlands for enhanced
regulatory protection and restoration.
2017: Complete mapping in
high priority sub-watersheds.
Enhance regulatory
protection and inform
restoration.
NYSDEC 7
5.14 Evaluation Assess mitigation of potential adverse
impacts to wildlife associated with land-
based and offshore wind farm operations,
new hydropower facilities, and other
development activities.
2017: Complete assessment. Identification of best
mitigation techniques
by development type.
NYSDEC,
USFWS,
NYSERDA,
GLRC,
Audubon
10
5.15 Education/
Outreach
Engage sportfishing stakeholders to enlist
public support for the restoration of native
species.
2017: Reach 5,000
stakeholders
Increased public
support.
NYSDEC,
NY Sea
Grant
XC

30

Goal 6: Conserve Great Lakes Water Supplies in a manner that recognizes the renewable
but finite supply of the waters of the Great Lakes Basin for the long-term sustainable use and
enjoyment of the public.

Challenge:
Although New York is a water-rich state, it must continue to strengthen its capabilities to better
understand and manage its water resources in the Great Lakes region. This is especially true given the
growing demand for water, including water for human consumption and energy production. As other
parts of the country experience large changes in drought frequency and intensity, New Yorks water
resources may become a defining economic asset, resulting in the migration of people and businesses
into the State. This may bring economic benefits, but will also present new challenges as pressure on
water resources increases. To maximize potential economic development benefits while conserving
precious water resources into the future, New York should conduct a comprehensive assessment of its
water supplies and uses to better understand the availability, limitations, and allocations of water and
how this water budget intersects with economic and energy development, population growth, and
ecological health.

The potential for greater pressure, and perhaps unsustainable, use of Great Lakes water resources led
to international actions to ensure that effective safeguards are put into place to protect these resources
on a regional basis. On December 13, 2005, the Great Lakes Governors and Premiers signed two
agreements to protect the waters of the Great Lakes: 1) Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin
Sustainable Water Resources Agreement and 2) Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water
Resources Compact. During 2008, New York joined the other Great Lakes states and Congress in
ratifying the Compact. The Compact provides a comprehensive management framework for achieving
sustainable water use and resource protection in the Great Lakes Basin, including both its surface and
groundwater resources. The Agreement and the Compact deal with water supply issues, including out-
of basin diversions, the management and regulation of water withdrawals and the assessment of
significant impacts due to water withdrawals and consumptive uses.

As required under the Compact, New York established baseline volumes for existing water withdrawals
in December of 2009. The Parties to the Compact and Agreement also established Goals and
Objectives for Water Conservation and Efficient Use, and Water Withdrawal Information Reporting
and Management Protocols to be used across the basin. Work is currently underway to develop
protocols for cumulative impact assessment of water withdrawals and consumptive uses.

New York must fulfill two near-term deliverables due under the Agreement and Compact:
New York needs to adopt water conservation and efficient use program goals and objectives
consistent with Compact guidance; and
By December 2013, New York needs to adopt a management or regulation program to
implement all other provisions of the Compact; this program should seek to enhance
consistency in water supply management on a statewide basis. In response to this requirement,
in 2009 the Governor proposed legislation (S.8280-A/A.11436-B), which would authorize DEC
to implement a statewide water withdrawal permitting program, consistent with the provisions of
the Compact.


31


To achieve the goal of conserving Great Lakes water supplies, implementation of the following priority
actions is needed:

Supports
Goal
6.1 Assessment/
Research
Assess New York States water budget,
including an assessment of groundwater
and surface water supplies.
2013: Develop an
assessment protocol.
2015: Start implementing
assessment protocol in high-
priority watersheds.
Identify water-rich and
water-deficient areas
to direct/locate
sustainable economic
development.
GLC 5, 8, 9
6.2 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop and adopt strategies to protect
and sustain source waters, water supply
aquifers and critical watershed supplies.
2015: Identify target locations
and protection strategies.
Protection of water
quality and quantity.
Various 5, 8, 9
6.3 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop stream flow monitoring system to
collect data for statistical analyses,
regulatory guidelines, gauging
networks and estimation tools to evaluate
the hydrological impacts of climate
change, individual and cumulative water
withdrawals, and unsustainable land uses
upon aquatic biodiversity and water
supply.
2012: Develop stream flow
monitoring system.
2013: Develop regulatory
stream flow guidelines to
comply with Compact
commitments.

Maintain hydrologic
flows in tributary
streams and
groundwater systems
that are consistent
with ecological and
human needs.
USGS, TNC,
NYSDEC
5, XC, CC
6.4 Action -
Collaboration
Continue to fund and work with the Great
Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water
Resources Compact Council and Regional
Body to achieve the shared vision for
sustainable water resource management.
Ongoing Sustainable water
resource
management.
NYSDEC XC
6.5 Action - Project Establish a water withdrawal and diversion
management program and water
conservation/efficient use program,
pursuant to the Compact and statewide
water resource management objectives.
2013: Enact water withdrawal
law.
2013: Water conservation
study completed.
Improved
management of
withdrawals,
diversions, and water
conservation.
NYSDEC,
USGS
5
6.6 Action - Project Where appropriate, implement the
recommendations of the 2010 GLBAC
report, 'Our Great Lakes Water Resources:
Conserving and Protecting Our Water
Today for Use Tomorrow'.
2017: Implement five
recommendations.
Enhanced water
conservation and
protection.
NYSDEC 8
6.7 Action - Project Establish incentives for business,
residential, and agricultural water users to
increase water use efficiency and
conservation through leak detection
programs, low-flow devices, rainwater
harvesting, and equitable water-pricing
programs.
2013: Identify incentives.
2015: Promote incentives to
large water users.
Increased water
conservation
incentives.
8
6.8 Action - Project Map high priority aquifers in the Great
Lakes Basin.
2015: Map high priority
aquifers.
Understand aquifer
hydrology and
implications for local
water supplies.
USGS 6.1
6.9 Education/
Outreach
Work with New York manufacturers and
other large water users to reduce their
water footprint in production processes
beyond regulation requirements.
2015: Complete three pilot
projects to reduce water use.
2017: Report water and cost
savings by industry.
Increase water use
efficiency and
conservation.
NYSPPI 8

32

Goal 7: Enhance Coastal Resiliency and Ecosystem Integrity through restoration,
protection, and improved resource management.

Together, the shorelines of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario comprise New Yorks north coast, spanning
approximately 700 miles across these two lakes and two international rivers the Niagara and St.
Lawrence. Although varied in geography and geology, these shorelines are similarly vulnerable to
storm surges, coastal flooding, and shoreline erosion that place both human and natural communities
at risk. In recent years, warmer lake temperatures and decreased winter ice cover, brought on by
climatic changes, have increased the risk of flooding and shoreline erosion. At the same time, the loss
of coastal wetlands over the last century as a result of development, degradation, and unnatural lake
level management has significantly reduced the natural protective functions and flood absorption
capacity of these ecosystems, placing natural and human communities at considerable risk.

To enhance the resilience of Lake Ontario and Lake Eries environment, economy, and communities,
an integrated management approach, or resiliency strategy, that considers human uses of these
resources must be developed and implemented. Coastal resiliency, as described in the NYS 2100
Commission report, and ecosystem integrity will be enhanced through a combination of efforts including
the restoration of coastal wetlands, beaches, and dune communities; improvements to hard
infrastructure protections; installation of soft infrastructure; offshore wave attenuation and habitat-
friendly breakwaters; and the development of land use recommendations that encourage high-risk
properties to reduce vulnerabilities. Other key priorities for promoting coastal resiliency and ecosystem
integrity include:

Protect Great Lakes coastal communities by restoring coastal infrastructure using natural and
engineered measures to improve resilience.
Reduce inland vulnerability to extreme weather events by expanding wetlands protections in
flood prone areas, creating a wetlands and natural systems mitigation banking program to
promote restoration, and expanding green infrastructure and urban forests.
Strengthen drinking and wastewater infrastructure to reduce vulnerability to flooding, drought,
and other extreme weather events.
Explore benefits and disadvantages of adopting a water level management plan for Lake
Ontario that restores more natural water level fluctuations and supports nearshore restoration
and property resiliency initiatives.
17

Adapt to threats caused by climate change by restoring ecosystem biodiversity, increasing
connectivity, and supporting coastal resiliency initiatives that support flood protection and
restore nearshore ecosystem integrity.

17
See http://www.ijc.org/loslr/en/index.php for information on the International Joint Commissions (IJC) potential new approach for
managing water levels and flows in the Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River system.

33


To achieve the goal of enhancing coastal resiliency and ecosystem integrity, implementation of the

Supports
Goal
7.1 Assessment/
Research
Conduct a coastal property and ecosystem
vulnerability analysis, to predict the
potential impacts of flooding, erosion, and
altered precipitation patterns that may
occur and their effects on human and
natural communities.
2014: Complete coastal
property analysis (e.g.
analysis of improvements to
hard infrastructure
protections for homes along
the Lakes, restrictions on the
re-construction of public
infrastructure and other
buildings in high risk flood
and erosion zones).
2017: Complete coastal
ecosystem analysis.
Assess vulnerability of
built and natural
coastal infrastructure
to inform and prioritize
coastal resiliency
planning and project
implementation.
NYSDEC,
NYSDOS,
others
7.4, 8, 9,
CC
7.2 Monitoring/
Planning
Identify appropriate soft shoreline
protection techniques and the economic
and ecological costs/benefits associated
with each for Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and
the Niagara River.
2015: Complete resource
database of techniques that
are deemed suitable for NYs
GL system.
Understand which soft
shoreline techniques
are suitable for
implementation on
NYs GL system.
NYSDEC,
NYSG,
ACOE,
NYSERDA
5, 9
7.3 Monitoring/
Planning

Support the development of a binational
integrated remote environmental
monitoring system to track and forecast
hydrologic, climatic, and meteorological
conditions to inform conservation science,
public safety, and adaptive management
initiatives.
2017: Develop monitoring
system.
Information will inform
adaptive management
of Lake Ontario
regulated lake level,
support the evaluation
of cumulative water
withdrawals from the
basin, address water
quality issues, and
monitor habitat and
fisheries management
projects.
NYSDEC,
NOAA,
Environment
Canada
6, XC, CC
7.4 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop a Great Lakes Coastal Resilience
Strategy to alleviate flood and erosion
impacts, and improve overall coastal
ecology.
2013: Complete draft of
strategy.
Strategy that proposes
implementable actions
to increase coastal
resiliency.
NYSDEC,
NYSDOS,
OPRHP
5, 8, 9
7.5 Action -
Capacity
Provide technical assistance to shoreline
communities for infrastructure
improvements and improved shoreline
stewardship that promotes natural,
resilient shorelines, while recognizing
natural erosion processes.
2013: Identify management
techniques and measures
that promote naturalized
shorelines (e.g. offshore
wave attenuation, soft
engineering methods,
conservation easements).
2014: Develop and
disseminate guidance on
shoreline erosion control
options.
Increased awareness
and implementation of
sustainable shoreline
practices and coastal
resiliency efforts.
NYSDOS,
NYSDEC,
NYSG
5, XC
7.6 Action -
Funding
Direct financial resources to Lake Ontario
shoreline communities to support coastal
resiliency efforts.
2013: Develop a public guide
to state and federal
resources
Increased
implementation of
coastal resiliency
efforts.
NYSDEC,
NYSDOS
CC
7.7 Action - Policy Develop land use policies that reduce the
number of at-risk structures and promote
storm-resistant structures and setbacks.
2017: Develop 3 land use
policies that promote coastal
resiliency.

Enhanced coastal
resiliency.
Various CC

34

Supports
Goal
7.8 Action - Policy Evaluate the adoption of a water level
management plan for Lake Ontario that
restores more natural water level
fluctuations.
2014: Decision on supporting
new water level management
plan proposed by IJC
Improved coastal
environment results in
environmental
(enhanced flood
capacity, wave and
storm buffers,
enhanced habitat
quality, stormwater
filtering) and economic
benefits (increased
property values,
tourism, recreation,
and economic
development).
NYSDEC,
NYSDOS
5
7.9 Action - Project Create, restore, and preserve natural
shoreline protections, including the
construction of offshore artificial reefs,
restored beaches, dunes, and habitat-
friendly breakwaters.
2015: Identify priority sites for
protection, restoration, and/or
acquisition
2017: Actions underway to
conserve/restore 5 sites
Reduced impacts from
storm surges and
wave forces on
unprotected
shorelines.
TNC, others 5, 8
7.10 Action - Project Protect and restore coastal and freshwater
wetlands, especially in flood prone areas.
2017: Protect and/or restore
__ acres of coastal and
freshwater wetlands.
Increase flood water
holding capacity to
reduce coastal and
inland vulnerability.
Support enhanced
ecosystem services.
TNC, others 5, 8
7.11 Action
Project
Create a wetlands and natural systems
mitigation banking program to offset
damage or loss.
2017: Create mitigation
banking program.
5
7.12 Action - Project Promote and expand green infrastructure
and urban forests, especially in flood
prone areas.
2017: Implement 5 green
infrastructure/urban forestry
projects.
Reduce flood hazard,
preserve water quality,
promote
aquifer/reservoir
recharge, provide
natural habitat, etc.
Various 2, 5
7.13 Action
Project
Identify drinking water and aquifer systems
vulnerable to drought, monitor the quantity
of water in those systems, develop water
efficiency guidance, and identify
alternative supplies.
2013: Identify and assess
vulnerable drinking water and
aquifer systems
Reduce vulnerability
of drinking water and
aquifer systems.
NYSDEC 6
7.14 Action - Project Strengthen vulnerable wastewater
infrastructure by requiring installation of
disinfection systems and back-up power,
update design standards for wastewater
systems, and improve long-term
maintenance and planning.
2014: Identify vulnerable
infrastructure
2017: Implement _ risk
reduction activities
Strengthen vulnerable
wastewater
infrastructure.
2
7.15 Action - Project Restore aquatic habitat and biodiversity
through development and implementation
of a landscape scale active restoration
plan for coastal wetlands that have been
affected by static Lake Ontario water
levels.
2017: Carry out 5 aquatic
habitat projects (e.g., remove
fish passage barriers,
stabilize stream banks,
improve in-stream habitat,
restore wetland/upland
areas)

Enhanced coastal
resiliency and native
fisheries.
NYSDEC,
others
CC

35

Supports
Goal
7.16 Action - Project Work with the pertinent federal agencies to
update floodplain maps and to develop
sediment budgets for Lakes Erie and
Ontario, identifying sources of sediment,
and sinks where sediment should
accumulate. These efforts should (1)
identify reaches of the shoreline that are
particularly susceptible to flooding and
erosion under more varied climate
conditions, (2) assemble seamless topo-
bathymetry of the shorelines of the Great
Lakes to enable effective modeling and
assessment of the probable impacts of
climate change on the coastlines, and (3)
assemble bathymetric maps of the
nearshore zone, identifying critical habitats
to guide infrastructure and energy
development in nearshore waters.
2017: Complete maps and
sediment budgets.
Understanding of
coastal vulnerabilities,
climate change
impacts, and location
of critical nearshore
habitats.
ACOE,
FEMA,
NYSDEC
10, CC
7.17 Education/
Outreach
Undertake community-based stewardship
activities (e.g. coastal debris prevention,
habitat restoration, etc).
2017: Implement stewardship
program/project.
Enhance public
stewardship of coastal
resources.
BNRK,
others
9, XC
7.18 Education/
Outreach
Promote natural shorelines and
coastal/riparian stewardship on public and
private lands to improve aquatic habitat
and enhance coastal resiliency.
2017: Complete 3 natural
shoreline
restoration/outreach projects.
Enhanced coastal
resiliency for natural
and human
communities.
NYSDOS,
NYSDEC,
NYSG,
others
CC, 2, 3

36

Goal 8: Promote Smart Growth, Redevelopment and Adaptive Reuse to create a
sustainable and vibrant economy in the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Challenge:
Over the course of several decades, many Great Lakes urban centers have experienced a dramatic
decline of the manufacturing sector, population out-migration, suburbanization, shrinking revenues and
overall economic distress. Cities in the region host many under-utilized brownfield sites, vacant
industrial buildings, and distressed or abandoned residential buildings. A focus on re-development of
urban centers offers the opportunity to improve the economy and ecosystem health, and address
environmental justice at the same time.

New York State agencies have been exploring how to use good planning to create livable communities,
protect natural resources, and promote economic growth. Through the application of smart growth
principles, State and municipal government can use planning, zoning, property tax, and infrastructure
investment policies
18
to encourage redevelopment and concentrate new development near
transportation nodes and existing infrastructure, promote the use of public transit, avoid sprawl, and
create sustainable communities. Smart growth approaches have clear environmental benefits:
improved air and water quality, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, greater habitat and open space
protection, farmland preservation, clean-up and re-use of brownfield sites, elimination of blight, and fish
and wildlife protection.

By strategically focusing State financial support and land use development to existing urban areas, the
Great Lakes region can accomplish its economic development goals, leverage the value of existing
infrastructure, reduce development pressure in green belts
19
, and support the States climate change
mitigation goals. Also, smart growth development patterns can have the benefit of reducing the costs
of providing public infrastructure and delivering services thereby enhancing the regions economic
competiveness.


To achieve the goal of promoting smart growth, redevelopment and adaptive reuse, implementation of
the following priority actions is needed:

18
In August of 2010 the "State Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Policy Act" was enacted (Chapter 433). The new law establishes state
smart growth criteria, in order to direct public infrastructure investments toward existing infrastructure, developed areas and municipal
centers, such as downtowns, mains streets, central business districts and brownfield areas.
19
Areas of largely undeveloped, wild, or agricultural land surrounding or adjacent to urban areas.
Supports
Goal
8.1 Monitoring/
Planning
Encourage communities to develop
integrated comprehensive plans that
coordinate sustainability and climate
change adaptation efforts in shoreline
development, housing, transportation,
emissions control, energy efficiency and
job creation.
2017: 10 communities
develop EBM comprehensive
plans.
Identify EBM
strategies that
integrate brownfield
redevelopment, green
infrastructure
principles/practices
and local waterfront
redevelopment
planning, with a focus
on urban centers,
economic justice
communities, and
distressed waterfronts.

NYSDOS,
NYSERDA,
others
CC, 7, 9,
10

37

Supports
Goal
8.2 Action -
Capacity
Support implementation of regional
sustainability plans (Phase II of the
Cleaner, Greener Communities Program)
in Great Lakes region.
2017: Implement priority
projects in each of the GL
REDC regions.
Reduce GHG
emissions, enhance
climate resiliency, and
support sustainable
economic growth.
NYSERDA,
Regional
Economic
Developmen
t Councils
(REDC)
CC, 7, 9,
10
8.3 Action -
Capacity
Promote and capitalize local programs that
invest in affordable housing and residential
energy conservation in existing buildings.
2017: Implement 5 programs. Increased energy
conservation.
NYSERDA,
HUD, EFC
10
8.4 Action - Project Implement mixed-use, smart-growth, and
sustainable transportation policies and
programs.
2015: Identify options to
implement smart growth and
expand public transit.
2017: Implement 3 projects in
GL basin.
Reduce vehicle miles
traveled.
NYSDOT CC
8.5 Action - Project Redevelop brownfields to incorporate
green infrastructure and environmentally
sound development standards.
2017: Redevelop 3
brownfields in urban GL
communities.
Reduce development
pressure on
greenbelts and
support smart growth.
Various 1
8.6 Education/
Outreach
Encourage participation in the Climate
Smart Communities program to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and save
taxpayer dollars through climate smart
actions that also promote community goals
of health and safety, affordability,
economic vitality and quality of life.
2017: Enroll _ new GL
communities in CSC
program.
Increased adaptation
and mitigation
implementation.
NYSDEC,
NYSERDA,
NYSDOS,
Public
Service
Commission,
NYSDOT,
NYSDOH
CC, XC
8.7 Education/
Outreach
Encourage businesses to adopt
sustainable facility designs and practices
that reduce pollution, enhance worker
safety, and support urban greening efforts.

2017: 5 businesses adopt
sustainable facility designs
and/or practices
Great Lakes-friendly
business design and
operation
REDC,
NYSERDA
2

38

Goal 9: Enhance Recreation and Tourism Opportunities that capitalize on the rivers and
lakes, beauty and natural and cultural resources that define the character of the Great Lakes-
St. Lawrence region.

Challenge:

New Yorks Great Lakes region offers outstanding tourism and recreation opportunities: world-class
freshwater fishing and boating; eco-tourism and agri-tourism experiences such as birding, winery tours
and hiking trails, heritage tourism, and beautiful state parks. Lakefront communities are increasingly
seen as attractive places, with municipalities emphasizing waterfront revitalization as a key economic
development strategy.

The enjoyment of the Great Lakes ecosystem provides substantial economic benefits to the region.
Based on the 2007 New York Statewide Angler Survey, the New York Great Lakes sport fishery was
valued at $170 million annually. In total, over 4 million angler days were spent fishing on our Great
Lakes waters, representing about 22% of all freshwater fishing in New York. Recreational boating in
the region, similarly, provides substantial positive economic impact. Expenditures related to
recreational boating in New York areas bordering the Great Lakes and Finger Lakes amounted to $600
million in 2003.
20

Priorities for enhancing recreation and tourism opportunities in New Yorks Great Lakes region include:

Securing additional access for swimming, boating, and shore fishing throughout the region,
while minimizing the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Promote and capitalize the varied landscapes (Tug Hill Plateau, Finger Lakes, St. Lawrence-
Thousand Island region, etc) and their underlying recreational and tourism assets to drive
regional economic growth.
Increase public appreciation and stewardship of the natural resources of the Great Lakes region
by providing educational resources and interpretation opportunities.
Pursue recreation and sustainable development opportunities in parks and recreation areas,
while ensuring the protection of natural resources.


To achieve the goal of enhancing recreation and tourism opportunities, implementation of the following
priority actions is needed:

20
Great Lakes Recreational Boatings Economic Punch Great Lakes Commission, July 2007.
Recreational Boating Expenditures in 2003 in New York State and Their Economic Impacts
Supports
Goal
9.1 Assessment/
Research
Study and compile information on
deposition rates, sedimentation loads, etc.
to inform dredge management plans for
harbors.
2017: Complete study. Better informed
dredge management
plans for small
harbors.
ACOE 9.3
9.2 Monitoring/
Planning
Identify opportunities to expand public
fishing, wildlife-viewing, swimming, and
boating access along the Great Lakes
waterfronts in a way that is consistent with
natural resource protection and enhances
access for underserved communities.

2015: Identify locations to
expand recreational access.
Increased access to
recreational amenities.
NYSDEC,
OPRHP
5, 8

39

Supports
Goal
9.3 Monitoring/
Planning
Create long-term dredge management
plans for commercial and recreational
harbors along Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
2017: Create management
plan.
Maintain commercial
and recreational
harbors.
ACOE,
NYSDOS
8
9.4 Action - Project Dredge inlets/harbors and address beach
breaches.
2017: Dredge 5 high priority
inlets/harbors.
As needed: Address beach
breaches.
Economically viable
and resilient coastal
communities.
ACOE 7, 8
9.5 Action -
Funding
Secure and leverage funding to advance
community recreational needs, as
identified in SCORP.
2015: Implement _ high-
priority recreational projects.
Increase and enhance
desired recreational
amenities.
OPRHP,
others

9.6 Action - Policy Ensure that state and federal scenic
designation programs in the Great Lakes
region preserve visual resources along
scenic areas and corridors.
Ongoing Protection of visual
resources.
NYSDEC 8
9.7 Action - Project Include Great Lakes habitat restoration
and shoreline resiliency initiatives in all
plans for park and recreation areas in the
basin.
2017: Initiatives are
integrated into park and
recreation plans.
Enhanced coastal
habitat and resiliency.
OPRHP,
NYSDOS
5, CC
9.8 Action - Project Enhance outdoor sporting, tourism
opportunities and recreational amenities
within the Great Lakes basin.
2017: Develop or enhance 5
tourism or recreational
amenities.
Facilitate growth of
quality tourism product
that incorporates and
balances natural
resource protection.
NYSDEC,
OPRHP,
other
8
9.9 Action - Project Enhance trail networks and public parks
that connect communities, cultural
resources, and natural systems.
2017: Enhance 7 trail
networks and/or public parks.
Enhanced connectivity
supports tourism,
smart growth, and
habitat protection.
Niagara
Greenway
Commission,
NYS Canal
Corporation,
Great Lakes
Seaway Trail
5, CC
9.10 Evaluation Measure user satisfaction at recreation
areas across the Basin as an indicator of
improved or impacted resources
especially in St. Lawrence River and Lake
Ontario.
2015: Complete evaluation
and report results
Identify recreational
areas needing
improvements
OPRHP XC
9.11 Education/
Outreach
Provide educational resources and
interpretation opportunities at
tourism/recreation destinations.

2017: Create 5 new
resources and/or
interpretation opportunities.
Increase public
appreciation and
stewardship of GL
natural resources.
NYSG,
others
XC
9.12 Education/
Outreach

Promote branding of the Great Lakes -
St. Lawrence region as a domestic and
international travel and tourism destination
through regional marketing efforts.
2017: Develop and distribute
marketing materials (e.g.
website, brochures, etc)
Branding and
marketing of GL
region support
increased tourism.
I Love NY
campaign,
NYS Canal
Corporation
8

40

Goal 10: Plan for Energy Development consistent with natural resource conservation and
supportive of the States energy and climate change goals.

Challenge:

Energy is critical to the future of the Great Lakes region by supporting the local economy, creating jobs,
and providing energy for the State. Governments challenge is to ensure that the energy demands of
New York State are met, while emphasizing energy efficiency and the use of clean and renewable
technologies. Future energy development activities in the Great Lakes region must also take into
account the other ecosystem goals, enumerated in this Agenda, which are directed to ensure
ecosystem integrity and public health. Energy planners must integrate the States energy and climate
change goals by accelerating the introduction of zero- or low-carbon sources of power such as
renewable energy, and potentially nuclear energy, while maintaining the reliability of the electric grid.

As the energy market continues to evolve, New York will need to find ways to balance increasing
energy demand with other priorities. There are currently over 200 operating land-based wind
generators taking advantage of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario winds; several nuclear and coal-fired power
plants that use lake water for cooling; hydroelectric dams on the Niagara and St. Lawrence rivers; and
a biofuel plant in Oswego. Many proposals are being considered for additional generation and
transmission facilities in the Great Lakes region, including lake-based offshore wind energy production.
It is important to acknowledge that all energy related activities in the region will affect Great Lakes
ecosystems in some way. It is essential that a comparison of life-cycle impacts
21
be considered in
decision making and that the siting of new facilities and upgrading of existing technologies be evaluated
for local, regional, national and global impacts
22
.

There are two core challenges facing the energy sector. The first is to determine how existing energy
facilities can be modified to reduce their human and environmental impacts, while maintaining their
regional and local benefits. The second challenge is to develop new energy-generating facilities that
incorporate EBM principles, consider potential climate-change impacts and build resilience for meeting
peak demand.

While future changes to the climate of the Great Lakes Basin are difficult to quantify, it is clear that
expected higher seasonal average temperatures and increased frequency of extreme heat events will
result in increased energy use and/or increased reliance on demand response mechanisms, energy
storage and other energy resources to meet peak electrical demand. New Yorks existing and future
energy development projects must balance the need to meet the demands of the energy marketplace
and provide jobs and local tax revenue, while minimizing environmental impacts and being resilient to
climate change effects. It is imperative to assess the cumulative impacts of existing and future energy
projects in New York through the application of EBM principles.

21
NYSERDAs 2009 report, Comparison of Reported Effects and Risks to Vertebrate Wildlife from Six Electricity Generation Types in the
New York New/England Region provides a relevant reference on life-cycle impacts.
22
Examples of direct impacts include disruption of fish life-cycle stages, habitat fragmentation, point-source thermal discharge, and avian
strikes. Indirect impacts include acid and mercury deposition, degradation of air quality and aquatic habitats, and diminished habitat
connectivity.

41


To achieve the goal of planning for energy development, implementation of the following priority actions
is needed:

Supports
Goal
10.1 Monitoring/
Planning
Implement spatial planning for offshore
and onshore areas within the lakes that
integrates energy generation and
transmission siting criteria with habitat
protection and other uses.
Comprehensive analyses should address
impacts on habitats and biota, visual
aesthetics, sound related issues,
commercial and recreational fishing,
recreational boating, shipping and
transportation, submerged cultural
resources, and cumulative impacts.
2013: Complete spatial
planning for onshore areas.
2014: Identify high priority GL
shorelines
2017: Carry out spatial
planning for high priority GL
shorelines.
Identification of least
impactful energy
development sites.
NYSDOS,
NOAA,
NYSDEC,
NYSERDA,
TNC, Natural
Heritage
Program,
NYSDAM
5, 7, 9, XC
10.2 Monitoring/
Planning
Develop and implement best management
practices for the siting, extraction,
transmission, and efficient use of
renewable and non-renewable energy
resources.
2015: Develop BMPs for
priority energy resources
(e.g., NYs offshore economic
zone).
2017: Implement 2 pilot
projects utilizing BMPs.
BMPs reduce impacts
to natural resources
and maximize energy
efficiency.
GLRC,
NYSERDA
1, 2, 5, 6
10.3 Action -
Capacity
In combination with statewide policy
initiatives, make investments within the
region which could improve and maintain
the performance of the grid (e.g.,
transmission and distribution network
upgrading, energy storage) with increasing
use of intermittent alternative energy
sources such as wind generation.
2017: Implement 3 grid
performance improvement
projects
Improve and maintain
grid performance with
increasing use of
alternative energy
NYSERDA CC
10.4 Action - Project Incorporate best available projections of
changes in seasonal average
temperatures and increased frequency of
extreme heat events in near- and long-
term demand forecasting for electricity and
natural gas.
Ongoing: Utilize seasonal
projections to inform demand
forecasting
Demand forecasting
projections are based
on best available
information.
NYSERDA,
Energy
Information
Agency,
Energy and
Environment
al Analysis,
Inc.
CC
10.5 Action - Project Expand local implementation of demand
response and energy efficiency measures,
localized distributed generation, energy
storage, other energy-supply technologies,
and smart-grid technologies.
2017: Implement 5 actions to
meet regional growth and
improve system resiliency.
Meet regional demand
growth and improve
system resiliency.
NYSERDA CC
10.6 Action - Project Promote economic and ecosystem health
through programs (including systems
benefit charge, Renewable Portfolio
Standard, Regional Greenhouse Gas
Initiative, energy efficiency portfolio
standard, efficiency codes and standards,
and green building tax credit) funded and
implemented by NYSERDA and other
agencies.

Ongoing: Promote and track
economic/ecosystem health
benefits attained.
Reduced GHGs;
promotion of
economic and
ecosystem health
NYSERDA,
NYSDEC,
NYSDOS
8, CC

42

Supports
Goal
10.7 Action - Project Pursue cost effective options to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions from the
electricity and buildings sectors by 1)
expanding the deployment of efficient,
clean, renewable energy sources; 2)
investing through the Governor's 45 by 15
Initiative in the efficient end-use of
electricity and natural gas; 3)
strengthening the building energy code;
and 4) developing C02 performance
standards for new sources of electricity.
2017: Building/electricity
sectors implement 5 GHG
reduction actions.
Reduced greenhouse
gas emissions from
electricity and
buildings sectors.
NYSERDA CC
10.8 Action - Project Promote development and deployment of
emerging technologies (e.g. methane
generated by solid waste landfills,
concentrated animal feeding operations
and using digesters for onsite energy
generation for agricultural, wastewater and
food industry operations).
2017: Develop/deploy 3 new
technologies.
Increase development
and deployment of
new energy
technologies.
NYSERDA,
NYSDAM
CC

43

COORDINATION APPROACH: GREAT LAKES BASIN PARTNERSHIP (GLBP)

The Great Lakes Basin Partnership will be a collaborative of state agencies, stakeholder organizations,
and the public that will work together to operationalize this Agenda by implementing priority projects
and addressing key needs that are essential for achieving environmental protection and sustainable
development goals within New Yorks Great Lakes Basin. The purposes of creating this collaborative
governance approach are summarized below:

This will provide a structure for meaningful involvement of a highly diverse group of Great
Lakes stakeholders and constituents to support collaboration and sound decision making
essential to achieving the goals highlighted in the Great Lakes Action Agenda. The complexity
of the Great Lakes Basin and the issues it faces require this Partnership to be a cross-region,
multi-agency, cooperative effort, relying on the participation of a diverse constituency, including
supporting partners from multiple state agencies, regional planning entities, academia, non-
profit organizations, and others.

The Partnership will largely draw its membership from existing entities and organizations,
maximizing the efficacy of these groups by integrating them into a basin-wide decision-
making process that will support their individual organizational missions as well as the
Partnerships shared priorities for action.

As a well-structured, broad-based collaboration, the Great Lakes Basin Partnership will
facilitate information sharing, leverage limited financial resources, and maximize human
capital to directly support the work of core programs within many agencies.

The Great Lakes Basin Partnership will support New Yorks commitments to binational and
federal treaties, agreements, strategies and management plans focused on conserving the
entire Great Lakes Basin. These initiatives will typically involve frequent collaboration with
governmental jurisdictions within the U.S. and Canada, other states and provinces, and non-
government organizations.


44

Diagram 2. Great Lakes Basin Partnership Organizational Structure

I. GREAT LAKES ACTION TEAM

Statement of Purpose
The Great Lakes Action Team will provide the vision and strategic direction for the restoration and
protection of New Yorks Great Lakes Basin and will guide the work of two basin workgroups. The
Great Lakes Action Team is the primary management team for overall planning, coordination,
monitoring, and reporting. The Action Team will provide the leadership to build public support for the
Partnership effort and strive for optimum flexibility and cost efficiency.

Responsibilities
Advise the direction of program resources to support the work of supporting partners,
workgroups, and project teams;
Collaborate with federal and Canadian agencies to achieve binational program goals and
objectives;
Establish and maintain productive partnerships to collaboratively implement GLAA and
GLRI;
Enhance regional and local involvement to increase individual and organizational ownership
of watershed goals;
Identify priority projects and provide support to accomplish projects;
Track and report progress of GLAA implementation to the public;
Coordinate development of annual report;
Update and revise GLAA as necessary over time;
Recommend annual budget needs and core program work plan requests, reflective of GLAA
priorities;
Advance ecosystem-based management practice, principles, and policy;
Coordinate communications among Supporting Partners and the public;
Policy

Great Lakes Basin Advisory
Council

Scientific & Technical
Great Lakes Research Consortium

Economic & Local Govt
Regional Economic Development
Councils
Regional Planning Councils
Indian Nations

Environment
Healing Our Waters Coalition, NY
Chapter
NY Assoc of Conservation Districts
Watershed Protection Alliances

EAST BASIN
WORKGROUP
(Eastern Lake Ontario &
St. Lawrence River)

WEST BASIN
WORKGROUP
(Lake Erie & Western Lake Ontario)

GREAT
LAKES
ACTION
TEAM
(Coordinated
by DEC)
State
Agencies
Federal /
Binational
Orgs
Other
Stake-
holders
Supporting
Partners

45

Lead outreach and public education efforts targeted to diverse audiences;
Coordinate adaptive management and program evaluation to improve program performance
and resource alignment; and
Facilitate formation of basin Workgroups to implement region-specific GLAA projects.

Membership
The Great Lakes Action Team will consist of representation from key state agencies, supporting
partners, and other stakeholders (e.g., non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and
other interests). Administration and coordination of the Action Team will be directly supported by DEC
staff. Ideally, each members role and participation will be solidified in and supported through his or her
respective agency or organizations work plan.

State agency representation may include, but is not limited to, the following agencies: Department of
State, Department of Agriculture and Markets, Office of General Services, Office of Parks, Recreation,
and Historic Preservation, Empire State Development, NYS Energy Research and Development
Authority, Department of Transportation, Department of Health, and the State University of New York.

Representatives from each of the supporting partner groups below will be invited to participate as
voting members on the Great Lakes Action Team.

II. SUPPORTING PARTNERS

Supporting Partners will be invited to integrate their particular interests and perspectives into the
implementation of the Great Lakes Action Agenda and basin-specific work plans.

Responsibilities
Provide guidance and resources, consistent with areas of expertise and organizational
missions, to support the efforts of the Great Lakes Action Team, workgroups, and project
teams.
Help to ensure that restoration activities are scientifically grounded and connected with
regional community and economic priorities.

Membership

Great Lakes Basin Advisory Council (GLBAC) Policy guidance
The Council was created pursuant to, Great Lakes Basin Compact, Article IX, 21-0917 to, assist New
York State in its effort to protect the environmental, social and economic health of the Great Lakes
region. The Council advises the Governor and NYSDEC's Commissioner regarding New York's role in
regional, federal, and international water quality issues, and functions as a link between the
government and the public. The Advisory Council is required to meet at least twice annually and report
once annually to the Governor and the Legislature.

The Advisory Council is composed of thirteen public and six agency members. Members are appointed
by the Governor and the Legislature. Council members are selected as follows:

Nine Governor Appointees
o Three are from the environmental sector
o Three are from the business/labor sector
o Two are from the local government sector

46

o One is from the academic sector
Two members are appointed by the State Senate
Two are State Assembly appointees
Six representatives from NYS agencies (All 6 are Ex-Officio Members)
o DEC
o Health
o Transportation
o Power Authority
o State
o Economic Development
Non-voting observers
o NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
o Office of Emergency Management
o Great Lakes Research Consortium
o NYSG

Great Lakes Research Consortium (GLRC) Scientific guidance
The GLRC is a collection of colleges and universities working together to facilitate research, outreach,
and education. The GLRCs stated mission is to improve the understanding of the Great Lakes
ecosystem, including the physical, biological, and chemical processes that shape it, as well as the
social and political forces that affect human impact on the lakes and their associated economic
resources.

The group is comprised of 18 campuses in New York with nine affiliate campuses in Canada (see table
below). It is headquartered at the SUNY ESF Campus in Syracuse, NY. The group is organized into
task forces designated to specific areas of study. In addition, the group holds seminars and an annual
conference to facilitate public outreach and education.

Table 1. Great Lakes Research Consortium membership

New York Members Canadian Affiliate Members
Binghamton University
Buffalo State College
Clarkson University
Cornell University
Hobart William Smith Colleges
Rochester Institute of Technology
St. Lawrence University
SUNY Brockport
SUNY Environmental Science and
Forestry
SUNY Fredonia
SUNY Oswego
SUNY Plattsburgh
SUNY Potsdam
SUNY Cortland
SUNY Geneseo
Syracuse University
University at Albany
University at Buffalo
Brock University
McMaster University
Queen's University
Ryerson University
University of Toronto
University of Guelph
University of Ottawa
University of Waterloo
University of Windsor


47

Healing Our Waters Coalition, NY Chapter Environmental guidance
Formed in 2005, National Wildlife Federation and the National Parks Conservation Association are at
the head of this organization on a basin-wide level. Under the banner of Healthy Lakes, Healthy
Lives, this coalition of 115 environmental, non-government organizations (NGO) is focused on a
common goal of restoring and protecting the Great Lakes. The Coalition is made up of environmental,
conservation, and outdoor recreation organizations, zoos, aquariums and museums. Its mission is to
secure a sustainable Great Lakes restoration plan and the funding needed to implement it. It consults
with a technical advisory committee of Great Lakes researchers for scientific guidance and strives to
maintain an active presence in both the Great Lakes region and Washington, D.C. A number of
organizations, with leadership from New York Audubon, participate in the Coalition on behalf of New
York State.

New York Association of Conservation Districts Implementation guidance
Incorporated in 1958, the New York Association of Conservation Districts, Inc. (NYACD) provides
education and information to private property owners on conservation, orderly development and wise
use of the state's natural resources. The Association, a non-governmental, non-partisan, volunteer
organization, represents the county soil and water conservation districts. NYACD implements programs
that encourage proactive, cooperative alliances with others to promote environmental stewardship and
sustainability.

Finger Lakes Lake Ontario Watershed Protection Alliance (FL-LOWPA)
Lake Erie Watershed Protection Alliance (LEWPA) Regional guidance
These regional organizations are collaborative efforts to promote the sharing of information, foster
collaborative watershed management programs and partnerships, and apply a holistic, ecosystem-
based approach to water quality improvement and protection. Membership of each alliance consists of
representatives from counties wholly or partially within each respective watershed, and includes
participation from county soil and water conservation districts.

Regional Economic Development Councils Economic and local government guidance
This Governor-created initiative divides New York into ten distinct economic development regions, with
the purpose of developing region-specific economic development strategies that most effectively direct
public resources and investments to support jobs and economic growth throughout New York. The
Councils have been tasked with developing long-term strategic plans for economic growth in their
respective regions. A regional focus allows the councils to further their goals of job creation and
community development utilizing a community-based, bottom up approach.

These councils are cooperative associations comprised of public-private partnerships consisting
of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-
governmental organizations.

The Great Lakes basin is contained within six of New Yorks regional economic development
councils including Western New York, Finger Lakes, Central New York, North Country, and
portions of Southern Tier and Mohawk Valley.

There is considerable synergy and overlap among the priorities of the regional economic
development councils, as outlined in the REDC strategic plans and regional sustainability plans,
and those outlined in the Great Lakes Action Agenda.


48

Regional Planning Councils Planning guidance
The primary function of regional planning councils is to study the needs and conditions of an entire
region and to develop strategies which enhance the region's communities. New York's regional
planning councils provide comprehensive planning for the coordinated growth and development of their
regions. This involves conducting regional studies to assess needs, promoting the region's economic
climate, environmental health, recreational opportunities, etc., and providing technical assistance to
communities within the region. By presenting a regional perspective, regional councils promote
intergovernmental cooperation and serve as a liaison among the state and federal governments and
municipalities. Councils within New Yorks Great Lakes Basin that may serve as potential advisory
network members include the Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board,
Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council, Central New York Regional Planning and
Development Board, and the Tug Hill Commission.

Indian Nations Native American guidance
Representatives of Indian Nations on a government-to-government basis will be invited to collaborate
on environmental and cultural resource issues of mutual concern and, where appropriate and
productive, will seek to develop cooperative agreements with Indian Nations on such issues.

III. WORKGROUPS

West Basin Work Group
The West Basin workgroup will include the sub-basins Lake Erie and Southwestern Lake Ontario. The
geographic focus of this workgroup overlaps with NYSDEC Regions 8 and 9.

East Basin Work Group
The East Basin workgroup will include the sub-basins Southeastern Lake Ontario and Northeastern
Lake Ontario St. Lawrence. The geographic focus of this workgroup overlaps with NYSDEC Regions
6, 7, and 8.

49

Given the breadth of geography and diversity of interests that the Great Lakes Basin covers in New
York, implementation will be more easily managed through two sub-basin workgroups. Each
workgroup will be formed to oversee the development and implementation of work plans that are
specific to that regions values, environment, issues, and opportunities. Their individual work plans will
be based on the overarching goals and strategies of the Great Lakes Action Agenda, but will be
regional in scope, identifying specific projects and actions that are needed within that portion of New
Yorks Great Lakes Basin.

Responsibilities
Oversee development of work plans that support implementation of the GLAA
Review and report findings of program work plans, performance measures, and indicators of
program progress to the Great Lakes Action Team
Integrate state policy, education/outreach, science-based decision-making processes, climate
change considerations, and adaptive management into work plans
Establish Project Teams on an ad-hoc basis to implement or assist other stakeholders with
GLAA initiatives, based on workgroup priorities and project opportunities

Membership
Each workgroup will be led by a chairperson. Membership will consist of staff from regional state
agency offices, non-governmental organizations, and other organizations involved in project
implementation. Participation of DEC staff at this level will be essential to linking workgroup and project
team members to available state resources, providing technical support, and informing project
development. Likewise, the work of the workgroups and project teams will directly support core state
agency programs by providing additional project implementation capacity and resource support.
Relevant regional associations, planning councils, and local government bodies will be invited to join
the work group relevant to their area of focus. The West Basin Workgroup may include representation
from FL-LOWPA, LEWPA, Genesee-Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council, etc. The East Basin
Workgroup may include representation from FL-LOWPA, SLRWP, Tug Hill Commission, etc.

Sub-Basin's within New York's
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
Lake Ontario


50

Workgroup membership should be representative of the diversity of interests in the basin and reflect the
priority goals of the GLAA. Specifically, members should have expertise in one or more of the following
focus areas addressed in the GLAA:

1. Water Quality
Eliminate discharge of toxic substances from point and non-point sources
Control sediment, nutrient, and pathogen loadings
Accelerate the delisting of New Yorks areas of concern
2. Biodiversity & Habitats
Conserve and restore biodiversity and fish & wildlife habitats
Combat invasive species
3. Water Conservation
Conserve Great Lakes water supplies
4. Recreation & Tourism
Enhance recreation and tourism opportunities
5. Sustainable Development
Coastal resiliency
Promote environmentally sustainable smart growth, redevelopment, and adaptive reuse
Plan for energy development

Designated workgroup members will serve as goalkeepers for each GLAA goal to track implementation
progress.

As ad-hoc project teams are formed to address GLAA priorities and project opportunities, workgroup
members with relevant expertise may be called upon to serve as acting chairs of these teams, to
ensure that projects are consistent with the workgroups work plan and completed in a timely manner.

IV. PROJECT TEAMS

Project teams, or ad-hoc committees, may form to develop and/or
implement short-term projects that support their basins respective
work plan and implementation of the GLAA.

Responsibilities
To be determined by the workgroup chair and members of
the project teams.

Membership
Project teams will be coordinated by a member of the workgroup
with expertise relevant to the project being addressed.

Members of the project teams may consist of organizations and
individuals outside the workgroup, working to implement the
relevant project or opportunity. Examples of such members
include staff from local non-profit organizations, soil and water
conservation districts, local government, academic institutions,
state agencies, and interested citizens.

Coastal Community Partnership
A Coastal Community Partnership,
as defined in the NYS 2100
Commission Report, is an example
of a project team to advance
regional coastal resiliency
initiatives. Members of this project
team will likely include local
government, state and federal
agencies, including the DEC, US
Army Corps of Engineers, and
USGS, as well as representatives
from academia, non-profit
organizations, and community
groups.

51

FUNDING APPROACH

The goals, strategies, and objectives highlighted in this Action Agenda are ambitious on many fronts.
They will require not only a significant amount of organizational resources and commitment, but a
considerable amount of funding, including additional staff support. Implementation of this Agenda will
rely on a combination of state and federal funding programs, existing organizational resources, and
public-private partnerships to achieve the goals and objectives included in this action plan. Some of the
funding approaches that will be sought, utilized, and leveraged in support of this Action Agenda are
highlighted below.

Funding Programs

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). This is a multi-year, multi-million dollar federal
investment to support projects and programs related to 1) toxic substances and areas of
concern; 2) invasive species; 3) nearshore health and nonpoint source pollution; 4) habitat and
wildlife protection and restoration and; 5) accountability, education, monitoring, evaluation,
communication and partnerships. New Yorks Great Lakes Action Agenda is aligned with the
priorities identified in the GLRIs action plan (see plan at
http://greatlakesrestoration.us/pdfs/glri_actionplan.pdf), developed by a task force of 11 federal
agencies.

Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). New Yorks Environmental Protection Fund supports
projects related to land protection and acquisition, public land stewardship, water quality
improvement, and invasive species eradication. EPF monies are used by state agencies and
distributed to municipalities and non-profits through grant-making programs. More information
is available at http://keepprotectingny.com/the-epf.html.

Great Lakes Protection Fund (GLPF). The GLPF is an endowment created by seven of the
eight Great Lakes states. New York uses a portion of the earned interest to fund regional and
statewide research projects that support the restoration of New Yorks Great Lakes ecosystem.
Funds are provided to government, academia, non-governmental and environmental groups
through small and large grant programs. The fund is administered by DEC with input from the
New York State Great Lakes Basin Advisory Council. More information is available at
http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/25582.html.

Consolidated Funding Application (CFA). The CFA is a support mechanism that allows
access to multiple state funding sources through one application. State funding sources that
can be accessed through the CFA and are relevant to Great Lakes restoration objectives
include the following categories: agriculture; waterfront revitalization; economic and community
revitalization; parks, historic preservation, and heritage areas; energy improvements;
environmental improvements; and sustainability. More information is available at
https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/.

Other funding programs. Depending on the project focus, a variety of funding and technical
support may be available through the following programs, among others:
Environmental Finance Center, Syracuse University -
http://efc.syracusecoe.org/efc/sub.html?skuvar=5
EPA water grants - http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/
EPA smart growth grants - http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/grants/
USFWS grants - http://www.fws.gov/grants/

52

Public-Private Partnerships

Implementation of this Agenda will rely on the collaborative efforts of stakeholder groups across the
region, including the private sector. Many private sector companies have corporate sustainability
programs that aim to conserve energy and water, reduce the use of toxics, and promote community
sustainability efforts within their service areas. Public-private partnerships may be formed on a project
by project basis, or as part of a larger regional sustainable development effort such as New Yorks
Regional Economic Development Councils. Developing and maintaining strong public-private
partnerships will be key to implementing many actions contained within this Agenda, as well as
ensuring that broad stakeholder involvement is accomplished at the local and regional levels.

Organizational Resources

Through effective collaboration, the Great Lakes Basin Partnership will leverage the organizational
resources and capacity of our partners, including state agencies, non-profit organizations, academic
institutions, municipalities, and other stakeholders, to achieve the actions set forth in this action plan.
Many of the actions highlighted in this Agenda support core program responsibilities and organizational
missions of NYs Great Lakes stakeholders. Coordination of these groups through the Great Lakes
Basin Partnership will support enhanced communication, including the strategic alignment of
organizational work plans, to maximize limited staff capacity and financial resources while leveraging
in-kind support to achieve the goals in this Agenda.


53

REFERENCES

A Strategic Plan for the Rehabilitation of Lake Trout in Lake Erie, 2008-2020 (December 2008)

Buffalo River Remedial Action Plan (RAP) (1989; 2005 Status Report)

Eighteenmile Creek Remedial Action Plan (RAP) (1997; 2001 Update)

Fish-Community Goals and Objectives for Lake Erie (2003)

Fish-Community Objectives for Lake Ontario (1999; 2003 Update)

Fish-Community Objectives for the St. Lawrence River (December 14, 2001 draft)

Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy: Canada - United States Strategy for the Virtual Elimination of Persistent
Toxic Substances in the Great Lakes (April 7, 1997; December 2008 status report)

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Action Plan, FY2010-2014 (February 2010)

Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Strategy (December 2005)

Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact

IJC Biennial Reports on Great Lakes Water Quality

International Niagara River Board of Control Water Level/Flow Control Plan

International St. Lawrence River Board of Control Water Level/Flow Control Plan

Joint Strategic Plan for Management of Great Lakes Fisheries (1981; revised 1997)

Lake Erie Environmental Objectives (2005)

Lake Erie Lake Management Plan (LaMP) (2000; 2008 Update)

Lake Erie Millennium Plan

Lake Ontario Lake Management Plan (LaMP) (1998; 2008 Update)

National Assessment of Water Availability and Use: Great Lakes Basin Pilot

New York State 25-Year Plan for the Great Lakes (June 1992)

New York State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (September 2005)

New York State Open Space Conservation Plan (2009)

Niagara River Toxics Management Plan (November 1998; 2009 Annual Status Report)

Niagara River Remedial Action Plan (RAP) (2000)

North American Waterfowl Management Plan (1986; 1998 update; 2004 Implementation Framework)

Our Great Lakes Water Resources: Conserving and Protecting Our Water Today for Use Tomorrow (July 2009)


54

Our Waters, Our Communities, Our Future: Taking Bold Action Now to Achieve Long-term Sustainability of New
Yorks Ocean and Great Lakes (April 2009)

Responding to Climate Change in New York State: The ClimAID Integrated Assessment for Effective Climate
Change Adaptation (2011)

Rochester Embayment Remedial Action Plan (RAP) (Stage 1 1993; Stage 2 1997)

State Of the Lakes Ecosystem Conference (SOLEC) reports (1993, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007,
2009)

St. Lawrence River at Massena Remedial Action Plan (RAP) (Stage 1 1990; Stage 2 1991; 2006 Status Report)

The Beautiful Lake: A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for Lake Ontario (April 2009; update July 2009)

The Importance of Ground Water in the Great Lakes Region (U.S. Geological Survey, 2000, N.G. Grannemann,
R.J. Hunt, J.R. Nicholas, T.E. Reilly, and T.C. Winter)


55

Appendix 1: Integrating Existing Plans and Strategies

New York State recognizes its existing obligations and commitments to the many federal, interstate,
regional and bi-national programs, plans and strategies developed over the past twenty years for the
Great Lakes. This Agenda is not intended to create a new planning process, but rather, seeks to
synthesize the goals of the range of existing plans into one common strategic agenda for action. The
key goals and priority actions from the various existing plans have been integrated into this Action
Agenda. Having a shared set of priorities will help to stimulate a more effective process for
implementing the existing plans and should foster greater
collaboration among involved organizations.

Lakewide Management Plans (LaMPs)
23

LaMPs are key mechanisms for the United States and Canada
to fulfill their commitments under the Great Lakes Water Quality
Agreement (GLWQA). LaMPs prioritize critical pollutants
impairing beneficial uses, and identify the actions necessary to
restore those beneficial uses. Through the LaMPs, coordinated
binational analyses of the biological, chemical and physical
problems facing the lakes have been undertaken, leading to the
formulation of ecosystem objectives for each lake. Over time,
those objectives have been refined, and the plans have evolved
to define goals for each lakes whole ecosystem, not just specific
pollutants. Actions have been identified to restore beneficial
uses of each lake, including those focusing on landscape and
community-based actions that can be implemented through
Local Waterfront Revitalization Programs, Agricultural
Environmental Management Plans and farm best management
practices (BMPs), protection of tributary streams, prevention of
non-point and point source pollution, conservation of coastal
wetlands and other upland habitats, and water infrastructure
improvements (traditional, as well as green infrastructure)
within New York.

The Lake Ontario LaMP was first issued in 1998, following an
extensive period of analysis, and the most recent update was in
2008. A list of ecosystem goals, objectives, impairments and
initiatives are identified in the Lake Ontario LaMP and are
summarized in Appendix 2.

The Lake Erie LaMP was issued in 2000, following a similar
period of analysis, and was updated in 2008. A list of ecosystem
goals, objectives, impairments and initiatives are identified in the
Lake Erie LaMP (see Appendix 3).

23
Under Annex 2 of the amended 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, Lakewide Management Plans (LaMPs) are now referred to
as Lakewide Action and Management Plans (LAMPs). Work is currently underway to integrate the new Annex 2 updates into the existing
Lakewide Management Plan structure. Once this work is complete, this document will be updated to reflect the revised LAMP process.
BENEFICIAL USE
IMPAIRMENTS

As defined by the GLWQA,
"impairment of beneficial use(s)"
is a change in the chemical,
physical, or biological integrity of
the Great Lakes System
sufficient to cause any of the
following:
1. Restrictions on fish and
wildlife consumption
2. Tainting of fish and
wildlife flavor
3. Degradation of fish and
wildlife populations
4. Fish tumors or other
deformities
5. Bird or animal
deformities or
reproductive problems
6. Degradation of benthos
7. Restrictions on dredging
activities
8. Eutrophication or
undesirable algae
9. Restrictions on drinking
water consumption, or
taste and odor problems
10. Closing of beaches
11. Degradation of
aesthetics
12. Added costs to
agriculture or industry
13. Degradation of
phytoplankton and
zooplankton populations
14. Loss of fish and wildlife
habitat


56

Remedial Action Plans (RAPs)

The GLWQA also required the development of Remedial Action Plans (RAPs) to restore the
environmental quality and impaired beneficial uses within an Area of Concern (AOC). RAPs are locally
designed, ecosystem approaches used to identify remedial and preventative actions such as
improvements to municipal and industrial discharges, environmental sampling of water or sediment,
and remediation of contaminated soil or sediments and the restoration of wetlands. A priority objective
within this Action Agenda is to identify the actions necessary to restore beneficial uses and delist all of
New Yorks AOCs. An AOC is a specific area where significant pollution has been identified as
impairing one or more beneficial uses such as swimming, eating fish, or drinking water as well as
environmental impairments relating to fish and wildlife habitat and populations. New Yorks AOCs
include the Buffalo River, Niagara River, Eighteen Mile Creek, Rochester Embayment, St. Lawrence
River at Massena and Oswego River/Harbor. To date the Oswego AOC is the only U.S. AOC to have
its beneficial uses restored and delisted. Although the Oswego AOC has been delisted, continued
attention must be given to assure past impairments do not recur. Beneficial uses can be restored and
AOCs delisted through the RAP process, which develops a coordinated multi-stakeholder partnership
involving the federal/state/provincial governments and local community based organizations, to
effectively initiate actions needed. The current status of beneficial use impairments for each New York
AOC is listed in Appendix 4.

Great Lakes Fisheries Management

The development of strategic fish community objectives (FCOs) for each Great Lake and the upper St.
Lawrence River has been undertaken by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and its bi-national Lake
Committees (fisheries managers from the relevant state and provincial agencies). The FCOs are
NYS Great Lakes Watershed
Areas of Concern

25 50
Lak .. 011 fario
!
o NYS Grcat Lakcs Watcrshcd
Arcas of Conccrn
Arcas of Concern Watcrsheds
o llEC Il<>rtt.u of 5,... 1.-.1 2010

57

intended to provide a shared approach for the multiple fishery management agencies, providing a
common set of goals:

To secure fish communities, based on foundations of stable self-sustaining stocks,
supplemented by judicious plantings of hatchery-reared fish, and provide from these
communities an optimum contribution of fish, fishing opportunities and associated benefits to
meet needs identified by society for: wholesome food, recreation, cultural heritage, employment
and income, and a healthy aquatic ecosystem
24

FCOs consider historical conditions, the current and most-complete scientific understanding of each
lakes ecosystem, the inter-relationship of species and the extant environmental stressors, and seek to
be responsive to the social, economic, and cultural needs and preferences of stakeholders.

For Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, DEC holds annual State-of-the-Lake public meetings to convey the
status, trends and developments in fish populations, angler activity, fish catch and harvest and
ecological stressors. These meetings are also used to solicit public input on proposed changes to
fisheries management regulations and to involve the public on necessary responses to emerging
fisheries management and ecological issues.

Lake Erie historically supported an important commercial lake trout fishery. The lake trout were once
an important native species in Lake Erie that were extirpated, but are now the focus of bi-national
rehabilitation efforts. Lake Erie Lake Trout Restoration Plan was adopted in 1985 and has been
revised several times since, reflecting a considerable body of new research and the impacts of invasive
mussels and sea lamprey predation. Decisions for lake trout restoration may require trade-offs that
reflect broader fish community goals for the lake. The Lake Erie Committee is also contemplating
efforts to restore native populations of lake herring.

An important goal for Lake Ontario is restoration of naturally reproducing populations of lake trout.
While natural reproduction is occurring, their abundance is well below targeted levels and the number
of adult fish has declined since the early 1990s. Numbers of lake trout stocked have been reduced, and
the survival of stocked fish remains low, likely due to changes to the offshore food web caused by
invasive species. A revised management plan, which recommends increased stocking and improving
strain diversity, is currently under review. The Lake Ontario Committee is also currently engaged in
research supporting the reintroduction of native deepwater ciscoes. Draft plans supporting this effort,
lake sturgeon restoration and American eel recovery are currently under review.

25-Year Plan for the Great Lakes

In June of 1992 New York State issued its 25-Year Plan for the Great Lakes, which described the
significance of the Great Lakes ecosystem to New York State, as well as the inherent complexities of
understanding and managing such an extensive area. The 25-Year Plan outlined a management
framework to provide for long-term vitality of the ecosystem, to guide State actions to restore
ecosystem components, and to secure ecological balance while benefiting human health and welfare.
New York has made tremendous progress in implementing the many components of the 25-Year Plan.
Yet New York has done so with no focused Great Lakes governance system. Many of the plans
recommendations remain relevant today, and therefore have been incorporated into this Action
Agenda.

24
Great Lakes Fishery Commission 1980 and 1997.

58

Other Applicable Plans and Programs

There are many other plans, strategies and policies that have direct bearing on the goals of this Action
Agenda. These include:
New York State Energy Plan (2009);
Executive Order 24 which established a State goal to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases
by 80% from 1990 levels by 2050 and required the development of a Climate Action Plan to
address greenhouse gas mitigation and climate change adaptation;
New York State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (2005);
North American Waterfowl Management Plan;
New York State Open Space Conservation Plan (2009);
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (2009-2013);
New York State Nonpoint Source Management Program;
New York State Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program (approved 2006);
New York State Priority Waterbodies List;
New Yorks Eastern Lake Ontario Dune and Wetland System: Guidelines for Resource
Management in the 21
st
Century (December 2007);
Upstate New York Groundwater Management Program (Final 1987);
New York State Coastal Management Program;
Local Waterfront Revitalization Programs;
Promulgation of 6NYCRR Part 246, Mercury Reduction Plan for Coal-fired Electric Utility Steam
Generators;
Northeast Regional Mercury Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Strategy;
Baseline Mercury Deposition Monitoring Grant from the USEPA;
New York States Air Toxic Monitoring Network; and
Numerous watershed management plans, regional and municipal plans.


59

Appendix 2: Ecosystem-based Management Vision, Goals and Objectives of Lake
Ontario Lakewide Management Plan (LaMP)
25

Ecosystem Goals:
The Lake Ontario ecosystem should be maintained and, as necessary, restored or enhanced to
support self-reproducing and diverse biological communities;
The presence of contaminants shall not limit uses of fish, wildlife and waters of the Lake Ontario
basin by humans, and shall not cause adverse health effects in plants and animals;
We, as a society, shall recognize our capacity to cause great changes in the ecosystem and we
shall conduct our activities with responsible stewardship for the Lake Ontario basin.

Ecosystem Objectives:
1. Aquatic Communities - The waters of Lake Ontario shall support diverse and healthy,
reproducing and self-sustaining communities in dynamic equilibrium, with an emphasis on
native species. Also, support Lake Ontario Committees Fish Community Objectives.

2. Wildlife - The perpetuation of a healthy, diverse and self-sustaining wildlife community that uses
the lake habitat and/or food shall be ensured by attaining and sustaining the waters, coastal
wetlands, and upland habitats of the Lake Ontario basin in sufficient quantity and quality.

3. Human Health - The waters, plants and animals of Lake Ontario shall be free from contaminants
and organisms resulting from human activities at levels that affect human health or aesthetic
factors, such as tainting, odor and turbidity.

4. Habitat - Lake Ontario offshore and nearshore zones, surrounding tributary, wetland and upland
habitats shall be of sufficient quality and quantity to support ecosystem objectives for the health,
productivity and distribution of plants and animals in and adjacent to Lake Ontario.

5. Stewardship - Human activities and decisions shall embrace environmental ethics and a
commitment to responsible stewardship.

Ecosystem Indicators:
1. Critical Pollutant Concentrations in (a) offshore waters, (b) young-of-year fish, (c) herring gull
eggs, (d) lake trout, and (e) as compared to existing agency guidelines.

2. Lower Foodweb Status & Trends in (a) nutrients, (b) zooplankton and phytoplankton, and (c)
prey fish.

3. Upper Foodweb Status & Trends in the health of (a) herring gulls, (b) lake trout, (c) bald eagles,
and (d) mink and otter populations.

4. Coastal Wetlands (a) periodicity of low level events, (b) percent meadow marsh cover, and (c)
changes in total wetlands surface area.

25
http://epa.gov/greatlakes/ontario.html

60

Beneficial Use Impairment (BUI) Indicators
Lake Ontario 2006

Use Impairment

Lake Ontario

1. Restrictions on Fish and Wildlife Consumption
I

2. Tainting of Fish and Wildlife Flavor

N

3. Degradation of Fish and Wildlife Populations

I

4. Fish Tumors or Other Deformities

N

5. Bird / Animal Deform. or Reproductive Problems
I

6. Degradation of Benthos

I

7. Restrictions on Dredging Activities

N

8. Eutrophication or Undesirable Algae

N

9. Drinking Water Consumption Restrictions, or Taste and Odor Problems
N

10. Beach Closings

N

11. Degradation of Aesthetics

N

12. Added Costs to Agriculture or Industry

N

13. Degradation of Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Populations

I

14. Loss of Fish and Wildlife Habitat

I

Lake Ontario LaMP Work Plan:

The binational Lake Ontario LaMP Work Plan directs limited resources, identifies priorities, and
maintains progress towards achieving the goals and objectives of the LaMP. The work plan identifies
agency activities according to four major work areas: chemical contamination and monitoring, physical
and biological impacts and environmental assessments; public outreach, consultion, reporting, and
communicating actions; and other action initiatives (e.g., the nearshore and climate change).

The 2008 LaMP identifies the following work plan activities as near term priorities:
Conducting Lake Ontario Intensive Cooperative Monitoring during 2008,
Continuing reduction of critical pollutant loadings to Lake Ontario,
Reporting on ecosystem indicator status and invasive species efforts,
Evaluating sediment and tributary samplings,
Broadening partnerships to implement habitat conservation strategies,
Conducting public outreach to benefit the stakeholders and LaMP,

BUI Indicator Status Key
I= Impaired
D= Delisted
N= Not Impaired
A= Investigation/ Assessment/ Remedial Action started
U= Unknown/ Additional Assessment/ Investigation needed


61

Incorporating nearshore plans into LaMP planning,
Continuing to assess impact of climate change on Lake Ontario.

See Chapter 12 of the full LaMP at http://epa.gov/glnpo/LAMP/lo_2008/index.html for complete work
plan.


62

Appendix 3: Ecosystem-based Management Vision, Goals and Objectives of Lake Erie
Lakewide Management Plan (LaMP)
26

Vision is a Lake Erie basin ecosystem where
All people, recognizing the fundamental links among the health of the ecosystem, their
individual actions, and the economic and physical well-being, work to minimize the human
impact in the Lake Erie basin and beyond;
Natural resources are protected from known, preventable threats;
Native biodiversity and the health and function of natural communities are protected and
restored to the greatest extent feasible;
Natural resources are managed to ensure that the integrity of existing communities is
maintained or improved;
Human-modified landscapes provide functions that approximate natural ecosystem processes;
Land and water are managed so water flow regimes and associated amount of materials
transported mimic natural cycles; and
Environmental health continually improves due to virtual elimination of toxic contaminants and
remedial actions at formerly degraded and/or contaminated sites.

Ecosystem Management Objectives:

1. Land Use

Strategic Objective (SO) Land-based activities enhance native biodiversity and ecosystem
integrity.

Tactical Objective (TO) Land use activities result in gains in the quantity and quality of natural
habitat in order to support the maximum amount of native biodiversity and community integrity
that can be achieved and be sustained for the benefit of future generations.

2. Nutrients

SO Nutrient levels are consistent with ecosystem goals (watershed and basin-wide).

TO Nutrient inputs from both point and non-point sources are managed to ensure that ambient
concentrations are within bounds of sustainable watershed management and consistent with the
Lake Erie vision.

3. Natural Resource Use and Disturbance

SO Ecologically wise and sustainable use of natural resources.

TO Natural resource use (e.g. commercial and sport fishing, hunting, trapping, logging, water
withdrawal, mining, etc.) and disturbances by human presence or activity be managed to ensure
that the integrity of existing healthy ecological communities be maintained and/or improved, and
provide long-term benefits to consumers, and to support the Lake Erie Committees Fish
Community Objectives.

4. Chemical & Biological Contaminants

SO Virtual elimination of toxic chemicals and biological contaminants.

26
http://epa.gov/greatlakes/erie/html

63

TO Toxic chemicals and biological contaminant concentrations within the basin must be
continually reduced.

5. Non-Native Species

SO Prevent further invasions of non-native species. Control existing invasive non-native
species where possible.

TO Non-native invasive species should be prevented from colonizing the Lake Erie
ecosystem. Existing non-native invasive species should be controlled and reduced where
feasible and consistent with other objectives.

6. Areas of Concern (AOC)

SO Delist all designated Areas of Concern within the Lake Erie basin.

TO Restore the Beneficial Use Impairments (BUI) designated within each AOCs Remedial
Action Plan (RAP) to meet their respective target objectives.

Beneficial Use Impairment (BUI) Indicators
Lake Erie Updated 2004

Use Impairment
27

Lake Erie

1. Restrictions on Fish and Wildlife Consumption
I

2. Tainting of Fish and Wildlife Flavor

N

3. Degradation of Fish and Wildlife Populations

I

4. Fish Tumors or Other Deformities

I

5. Bird / Animal Deform. or Reproductive Problems
I

6. Degradation of Benthos

I

7. Restrictions on Dredging Activities

I

8. Eutrophication or Undesirable Algae

I

9. Drinking Water Consumption Restrictions, or Taste and Odor Problems
N

10. Recreational Water Quality Impairments

I

11. Degradation of Aesthetics

I

12. Added Costs to Agriculture or Industry

N

13. Degradation of Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Populations

I

27
Indicates that an impairment is occurring somewhere in the basin and not necessarily throughout the
entire basin referenced.

64

14. Loss of Fish and Wildlife Habitat

I

Lake Erie LaMP Work Plan:

The Lake Erie LaMP work plan directs limited resources, identifies priorities, and maintains progress
towards achieving the goals and objectives of the LaMP. In addition, LaMP partners are encouraged to
develop, implement and track agency-specific work plans in support of LaMP goals.

Priority actions identified in the 2008 work plan for Lake Erie include the following:

Developing a binational nutrient management strategy for Lake Erie;
Planning and implementing the 2009 Cooperative Monitoring Year;
Completing and approving Lake Erie LaMP ecosystem indicators; and
Reviewing and implementing recommendations to re-organize the LaMP structure to reflect its
emerging implementation focus.

See Chapter 12 of the full LaMP at http://www.epa.gov/greatlakes/LAMP/le_2008/index.html for
complete work plan.

I= Impaired
D= Delisted
N= Not Impaired
A= Investigation/ Assessment/ Remedial Action started


65

Appendix 4: Beneficial Use Impairment (BUI) Indicators of NYS AOCs April 2012

Use Impairment

Niagara
River+
(U.S.)

St. Lawrence
at Massena+
(U.S.)

Eighteen-
mile Creek

Rochester
Embayment

Buffalo River

Oswego
River
(Delisted 06)

1. Restrictions on
Fish and Wildlife
Consumption

I

I

I

I

I

D

2. Tainting of Fish
and Wildlife Flavor

N

N

N

I

I

D

3. Degradation of
Fish and Wildlife
Populations

I

I

I

I

I

D

4. Fish Tumors or
Other Deformities

I

I

N

I

I

D

5. Bird / Animal
Deform.
or Reproductive
Problems

I

I

I

I

I

D

6. Degradation of
Benthos

I

I

I

I

I

D

7. Restrictions on
Dredging Activities

I

N

I

I

I

N

8. Eutrophication or
Undesirable Algae

N

N

N

I

N

D

9. Drinking Water
Consumption
Restrictions, or Taste
and Odor Problems

N

N

N

D

N

N

10. Beach Closings

N

N

N

I

N

N

11. Degradation of
Aesthetics

N

N

N

I

I

D

12. Added Costs to
Agriculture or
Industry

N

N

N

D

N

N

13. Degradation of
Phytoplankton and
Zooplankton
Populations

N

U

N

I

N

D

14. Loss of Fish and
Wildlife Habitat

I

I

N

I

I

D

I= Impaired
D= Delisted
N= Not Impaired

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