Press Release: NYS, June 23, 2004

Governor George E. Pataki today announced $440,000 in Environmental Protection Fund grants for three open space and preservation projects in Monroe and Orleans counties. A highlight of these awards is a $200,000 grant to the town of Greece to acquire property to protect critical migratory bird habitat identified by the Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area.

"This funding is another example of our efforts across New York to work with local communities to preserve open space and protect our precious natural and historical resources," said Governor Pataki. "By supporting the protection of critical bird habitats and restoring architecturally and historically significant buildings, we not only preserve an important part of our heritage, but help to improve the quality of life in our communities and ensure these treasures can continue to be enjoyed by future generations."

Also as part of today's announcement, the Greater Brockport Development Corporation (GBDC) will receive $200,000 to acquire and stabilize a building located in the village of Brockport along the Barge Canal. The funding will allow GBDC to protect the building from further deterioration and preserve the Canal's industrial heritage. In addition, $40,000 is being awarded to the First Presbyterian Church of Albion in Orleans County for restoration work at the Church, including mortar re-pointing and roof repair.

Senator George D. Maziarz said, "These grants will make a real difference in preserving our region's place in history, our unique architectural heritage, and our most valued natural resources. The resulting improvements will bring renewed interest and vitality to the communities of the Erie Canal Corridor and the Greater Rochester Region."

Senator Joseph E. Robach said, "New York State has made great strides in protecting our environment and preserving open space. By adding to the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area, we are enhancing one of North America's premier bird migration sites."

Assembly Republican Leader Charles H. Nesbitt said, "Once again I thank Governor Pataki for his leadership and his efforts in preserving both New York's natural environment and our manmade treasures. The grant for the First Presbyterian Church of Albion is an important investment that will help a great deal in its restoration."

Assemblyman Bill Reilich said, "I applaud Governor Pataki for his continued efforts to preserve our environment. The additional acreage at Frisbee Hill Park in the Town of Greece is significant not only by protecting the natural habitat of migratory birds and wildlife, but also by expanding the educational opportunities it provides. The grant within the Village of Brockport will allow continued historic preservation of a heritage that is unique to the communities along the Canal."

John Auberger, Supervisor, Town of Greece, said, "We are grateful for Governor Pataki's commitment to open space and preservation projects in New York. This land purchase will go a long way toward helping us to preserve the land and protect our natural resources. The residents of the Town of Greece would like to thank everyone that was involved in making this grant possible."

The Town of Greece will acquire a 49-acre parcel that consists of farmed fields, wetlands, streams and wooded areas, and includes two farm buildings. The purchase will significantly extend the Braddock Bay State Fish and Wildlife Management Area by linking it to the 140-acre Frisbee Hill Park, further protecting critical upland habitat for migratory birds and area wildlife. Upon purchase, the site will revert to a natural condition. The Town will continue working with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, local Audubon Society and other groups on habitat development, public access and educational programs.

The National Audubon Society Important Bird Area (IBA) program is designed to safeguard and enhance bird populations and their natural habitats. New York's Bird Conservation Area Program is modeled after the IBA program and was enacted in 1997 to protect bird populations on selected state-owned lands and waters. Governor Pataki recently designated a 1,800-acre portion of John Boyd Thacher and nearby Thompson's Lake State Parks in Albany County as a Bird Conservation Area. To date, 28 Bird Conservation Areas have been designated across New York State.

State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Erin M. Crotty said, "The Environmental Protection Fund has provided essential resources to safeguard our environment, protect our natural landscape, and ensure that historic landmarks across New York are preserved for future generations. Under the leadership of Governor Pataki, we have supported thousands of projects statewide by providing more than $1 billion in EPF commitments, and that dedication continues today with this important announcement."

Commissioner Bernadette Castro of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation said, "Through the Environmental Protection Fund awards, Governor Pataki continues to demonstrate an unprecedented commitment to protecting New York's diverse wildlife habitats and unique historic treasures. By safeguarding our natural and cultural resources and preserving local heritage, we are improving communities across the State for the benefit of all visitors to the region."

David J. Miller, Executive Director, Audubon New York, said, "Once more Governor Pataki has shown his firm commitment to the protection of birds, wildlife and their habitats in New York State. There are 127 Important Bird Areas in New York and many of them have been protected with the assistance of the State, and the others have been identified as priorities in the Governor's Open Space Conservation Plan. We can't thank the Governor enough."

Since 1995, Governor Pataki has committed nearly $108 million in EPF, Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act and Land and Water Conservation Fund support administered by State Parks toward 845 local open space, recreation and historic preservation grants to communities across New York State. During that time, more than $4.5 million has been invested in park and preservation projects in Monroe and Orleans counties.