DEC Announces Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs "Potting Up" Events for Arbor Day

 

Volunteers Encouraged to Participate on April 25 and 28 in Annual Seedling Preparation

Supports New York State’s Goal to Plant 25 Million Trees by 2033

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced that the Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs (tributaries) program will kick off the spring planting season with a "Potting Up" event in celebration of Arbor Day on Friday, April 25, and Monday April 28. Volunteers are encouraged to join DEC Estuary Program staff in potting up thousands of bare-root seedlings that will be used in the Trees for Tribs program.

"The Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs program provides a great opportunity for communities to work together as environmental stewards and support the State's goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033 and to protect vulnerable streamsides with tree plantings," said Acting Commissioner Lefton. "These plantings provide healthy buffers that help reduce water pollution, erosion, and flood damage and protect important habitat for fish and other wildlife that thrive along the river. I encourage all New Yorkers interested in supporting the State’s tree planting-goal to volunteer in this year's Trees for Tribs program and assist with these important planting projects.”

Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs plantings will take place throughout the Hudson Valley in May and June. Municipalities, environmental organizations, land trusts, watershed groups, and schools participate and volunteer. DEC's Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery provides the plants, which are native, New York seed-sourced riparian species, ideal for flood and erosion-prone areas.

Potting Up takes place on Friday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Monday, April 28, from noon to 7 p.m. at the DEC Region 3 Headquarters, 21 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz. To volunteer for "Potting Up" for one or both days, please register here or RSVP to HudsonEstuaryTFT@dec.ny.gov.

Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated observance that promotes tree plantings and tree care and highlights the importance of trees to the environment, economy and overall quality of life. Now celebrating its 19^th year, more than 10,500 volunteers have helped the Hudson River Estuary Trees for Tribs plant an estimated 71,000 shrubs and trees on more than 151 acres at 405 streamside sites. These efforts align with Governor Kathy Hochul's ambitious "25 Million Trees by 2033" initiative announced in her 2024 State of the State address, which aims to invigorate tree planting efforts statewide in recognition of the critical role of trees in protecting air and water quality, preventing flooding and runoff, providing wildlife habitat, reducing energy bills by cooling communities, enhancing overall quality of life, and boosting local economies through forest products and forest-related recreation.

Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced the launch of a new webpage and interactive tracking tool to help document progress toward New York State’s goal to plant 25 million trees. Hosted by DEC and developed in cooperation with the Office of Information Technology Services, the webpage and Tree Tracker allow State agencies, organizations, private entities, and individuals to report the location and number of trees planted into the tracking tool, measuring progress in the statewide effort. New Yorkers are encouraged to plant trees and record them in this newly launched 25 Million Trees Tree Tracker.

Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

 

SENATOR RIVERA'S STATEMENT ON THE KIDNAPPING OF BRONX RESIDENT MERWIL GUTIÉRREZ BY ICE

Yesterday, over 300 mothers gathered at The Bronx Health Link 2nd Annual Community Baby Shower at Monroe University. Parents and soon to be parents had access to valuable parental resources, received vital health education, participated in raffles, and enjoyed a wonderful time together.

A heartfelt thank you to Laura Levine-Pinedo from KRVC for all the clothing and food donations that were distributed to these families, and to Shirley P. Leyro from The Bronx Health Link and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L.Gibson for their partnership that made this outstanding event possible.

SENATOR RIVERA HOSTS CIVIC CLASSES AT THE RIVERDALE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE

This week, Senator Rivera had a great time hosting civics classes for 8th grade students and community members at the Riverdale Neighborhood House! The Senator gave an overview of the state government and the ongoing state budget process. Now more than ever, we must become more civically engaged and explore how each of us can get involved and make a difference in our communities. Thank you to all for the warm welcome! 

REMINDER: SENATOR RIVERA'S

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS PALM CARDS

Senator Rivera's team has created a Know Your Rights palm card (available in English and Spanish). Watch Senator Rivera's message here.

Remember, If your organization, or school would like to receive these cards, please fill out the form here and a staff member from our team will follow up to confirm your request.

If you are an individual constituent, call our office at 718-933-2034 or visit us at 2432 Grand Concourse, Suite 506, Monday through Thursday, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Guatemalan Man Unlawfully Residing in the United States and Convicted of Sexual Battery Indicted for Fraudulently Obtaining Custody of an Unaccompanied Alien Child in the United States

 

A federal grand jury indicted a man for his alleged role in smuggling an unaccompanied alien child (UAC) to the United States and for allegedly submitting a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of the minor after she entered the United States.

“The prior administration’s border policies created an environment that enabled human trafficking and allowed bad actors to take advantage of at-risk children,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are committed to protecting children from the scourge of human trafficking and will not rest until we deliver justice for those who suffered during the border crisis.”

According to the indictment, Juan Tiul Xi, 26, a Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in Cleveland, illegally entered the United States in 2023. Thereafter, Tiul Xi allegedly encouraged and induced a 14-year-old Guatemalan girl to illegally enter the United States and to use the identity of Tiul Xi’s sister as her alias. As a UAC, the Guatemalan girl was placed in the care and custody of ORR. As alleged, Tiul Xi then falsely stated on documents submitted to ORR when he applied to sponsor and obtain custody of the girl that he was the UAC’s brother and that her alias was her actual name. ORR relied on Tiul Xi’s alleged false statements when, on or about Sept. 5, 2023, ORR released the UAC to Tiul Xi’s care.

Tiul Xi is charged with one count of encouraging or inducing illegal entry for financial gain, one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement, and one count of aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the illegal entry count, a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the false statement count, and a mandatory consecutive penalty of two years in prison on the aggravated identity theft count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

“This case is a testament to ICE’s commitment to hold predators accountable for the harm they inflict on children,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons. “We are making every effort to ensure the safety of children released to sponsors across the United States. This is vital work and through their victim centered approach, ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents are perfectly positioned to uncover any similar crimes by predatory sponsors.”

“The Office of Refugee Resettlement is committed to continuing vital policy changes that promote the safety and welfare of unaccompanied alien children related into the Unites States,” said ORR Acting Director Angie M. Salazar. “We have significantly increased sponsor vetting with the wellbeing of the child at the core of our process. We hope that our commitment is evident by our collaboration with law enforcement to right previous wrongs and help bring these crimes to light.”

The indictment is the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 360 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 325 U.S. convictions; more than 270 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

The ICE HSI and FBI Cleveland field offices are jointly investigating with assistance from HSI’s Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C. and ORR have provided valuable assistance.

Senior Trial Attorney Christian Levesque of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP), Joint Task Force Alpha detailee/Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Acting U.S. Attorney Carol Skutnik and Criminal Division Chief Michael L. Collyer for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

DEC and OGS Remind New Yorkers to Keep 'Lights Out' to Protect Migrating Birds

 

State-Owned and Managed Buildings Take Measures to Reduce Light, Prevent Bird Collisions

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Office of General Services (OGS) remind New Yorkers to take action to help protect migrating birds as they navigate night skies by participating in the ‘Lights Out’ initiative. According to the 2025 State of the Birds Report from the North American Bird Conservation Initiative, migratory birds continue to experience widespread population declines. Joining national and international efforts, State buildings participating in Lights Out will keep certain non-essential outdoor lighting from affecting the ability of birds to migrate successfully throughout New York.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC is proud to join our New York State partners to lead by example and take actions to help reduce bird collisions. The national Lights Out initiative is a simple way New York State agencies and New Yorkers can protect wildlife and ecosystems and help a variety of bird species have a safe, successful migratory journey.”

New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, “The Lights Out initiative invites all New Yorkers to help migratory birds in flight avoid dangerous obstacles by simply flicking a switch or closing a window blind to reduce excessive lighting. OGS is proud to join with DEC and our other partners in state government to help our feathered friends safely navigate during their spring and fall migrations.”

Many species of shorebirds and songbirds rely on constellations to help navigate to and from their summer breeding grounds through the state. Excessive outdoor lighting, especially in adverse weather conditions, can cause migrating birds to become disoriented, a phenomenon known as fatal light attraction. According to several studies, fatal light attraction can lead to collisions with windows, walls, floodlights, or the ground and the death of more than 1 billion birds annually in the U.S.

Lights Out directs State-owned and managed buildings to turn off non-essential outdoor lighting from 11 p.m. to dawn during the spring migration window, April 15 through May 31, and also during the peak fall migration, Aug. 15 through Nov. 15. State agencies are also encouraged to draw blinds when possible and turn off non-essential indoor lighting during Lights Out times. In addition to benefiting migrating birds, Lights Out promotes sustainability and provides a cost-savings to the state.

Meredith Barges, Chair of Lights Out Central New York said, “The solution to light pollution that can harm migrating birds is so simple - switch off unnecessary lights at your home or business each night during peak bird migration, which runs through May 31. We all have a role to play in helping our magnificent migratory birds navigate safely through our region.”

Laura McCarthy, Senior Network Engagement Manager for Audubon’s Connecticut and New York Regional Office said, “The Lights Out movement is growing, and local Audubon chapters are a driving force behind the momentum. More than 50 cities and regions are involved in Lights Out programs, encompassing many of the most dangerous metropolitan areas for migratory birds. We have seen that a single building can kill hundreds of disoriented birds in one night — this sad fact underscores the value of going Lights Out, which can impact millions of birds. Audubon applauds New York State for its leadership on this, and encourages everyone to be part of the solution by turning off your unnecessary indoor and outdoor lights every night during peak bird migration from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.”

Jessica Wilson, Executive Director of NYC Bird Alliance said, “Millions of birds migrate through New York's night skies each spring, in an awe-inspiring journey happening right over our heads. Turning off unnecessary lights helps these travelers stay on course and avoid deadly collisions with buildings. It’s a simple, easy act that protects wildlife—and saves energy.”

DEC encourages birding enthusiasts to visit I BIRD NY for more information on where and how to observe birds, upcoming bird walks, a downloadable Beginner's Guide to Birding (available in Spanish), information on the annual I BIRD NY Challenge, and additional educational resources. The New York State Birding Trail map is also available at www.ibirdny.org and provides valuable information on each site such as location, available amenities, species likely to be seen, directions, and more. Digital information on the Birding Trail will be updated periodically, so budding outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to check back often.

DEC also reminds the public that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is currently widespread in wild birds and mammals. The public can help minimize risk and the spread of disease by preventing contact between domestic animals and wild birds and is encouraged to report sick or deceased wildlife here. In cases where field staff may be unavailable to collect samples or carcasses from the landscape and removal is necessary, use proper personal protective equipment, including disposable gloves, a mask and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with the carcass or fluids by using a shovel to transfer it to a tripled garbage or contractor bag, which should be placed in an outdoor trash receptacle. More information about HPAI, including how it is spread, and which animals can be infected, is available on DEC’s Animal Diseases webpage.

Governor Hochul Announces an Additional $30 Million is Now Available to Lease or Purchase an Electric Vehicle in New York

State’s Drive Clean Rebate Program Offers Point-of-Sale Rebates for More Than 60 New Electric Vehicles, Making It More Affordable To Drive Electric

Charge Ready NY 2.0 Incentives Updated To Expand Consumer Access to Convenient, Easy Charging at Multifamily Buildings and Workplaces

EVolveAdditionally, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) has undertaken significant efforts to build out high-speed chargers along New York State's major travel corridors through its EVolve NY network, which include:

• EVolve NY Fast Charging Network. The New York Power Authority's EVolve NY fast charging network offers 240 chargers at 56 locations along major corridors and routes (I-87, I81, I-384, I-90, I-88, and I-86) and in all 10 economic development regions of the state. NYPA has surpassed the halfway mark of its goal to install 400 EVolve NY fast chargers by 2026. Battery-powered EVs equipped with fast charging capability can power up in as little as 20 minutes at EVolve NY fast chargers. See map here for locations throughout New York State.
• Fast Chargers Coming to LaGuardia. Construction is beginning this month on NYPA’s largest EVolve NY site – LaGuardia Airport. The station, which will have 12 high-speed chargers, will be in a parking lot between terminals A and B, just off the Grand Central Parkway, and is expected to be completed by August. The site is for use by the public as well as rideshare vehicles. The airport currently has 13 public Level 2 chargers at Terminal B and C.
• Federal Funding Allows Further Expansion. New York has completed eleven four-charger EVolve NY sites with National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program funding with two more to be completed this month. Nine more will be constructed over the next year. NEVI support to states is meant to close gaps between existing stations and the EVolve NY team has been steadily closing those range anxiety gaps.
• New York City Adds Fast Charging Sites. NYPA is working with the state and city Department of Transportation to install hundreds of fast charging and Level 2 ports in New York City. Five new EVolve NY sites at municipal parking lots are expected to go into construction in 2025 and six more in 2026. The hubs will offer a total of 70 fast chargers and electrical connections for 280 future Level 2 chargers. NYPA is also supporting the construction of five fast charging hubs for the PlugNYC program, with two of these projects currently in construction in the Bronx and Brooklyn.

This announcement comes as the 2025 New York International Auto Show kicks off in New York City, which runs from April 18 through April 27 at the Javits Center. Visitors can stop by the NYSERDA and NYPA booth, located on level 1, to learn about incentives for purchasing EVs and programs that support charger growth throughout New York.

In addition, the New York State Office of General Services (OGS), in collaboration with its GreenNY Council partners, is leading the way on converting the state fleet and building out the electric charging infrastructure that will support this transformation. Today, there are nearly 600 charging ports on state owned property, with another 600 in the pipeline. NY Fast-Charging Network Expanding Across State

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $30 million is now available for consumers to lease or purchase new electric vehicles (EVs) in New York through the State’s Drive Clean Rebate program, which provides point-of-sale rebates for more than 60 new EVs. In addition, incentives for EV chargers through the Charge Ready NY 2.0 program have been updated to expand consumer access to convenient, easy charging at multifamily buildings and workplaces, including hotels. Today’s announcement helps to make driving electric more affordable, increases the number of chargers available, and reduces pollution from the transportation sector in New York State.

“New York’s leadership in driving the adoption of electric vehicles is helping consumers stay within their budget when purchasing or leasing a new electric car,” Governor Hochul said. “Along with increased savings, we are building out the infrastructure needed to provide hard-working New Yorkers convenient access to charging, helping to reduce range anxiety and make it easier to drive electric. These investments are key to building a cleaner future, lowering emissions and creating good-paying jobs.”

The Drive Clean Rebate Program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), offers a point-of-sale rebate up to $2,000 off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of an EV at participating car dealerships in New York State. The rebate is available in all 62 counties, with higher rebates available for longer range, all-electric vehicles.

New York State is investing nearly $3 billion in electrifying its transportation sector and rapidly advancing measures to ensure that all new passenger cars and trucks sold are zero-emission vehicles, along with all school buses being zero emissions. There are a range of initiatives to grow access to EVs and improve clean transit for all New Yorkers including EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP), the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger Program.

The Drive Clean Rebate and Charge Ready NY 2.0 programs are funded through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and the State's Clean Energy Fund.

NYGOP Statement on Zohran Mamdani's Momments on Israel

 

The New York Republican State Committee released the following statement in response to NYC Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's comments on Israel in a Politico interview:

 

“Zohran Mamdani’s comments are a disgrace and an embarrassment to the people of New York. His refusal to unequivocally support Israel’s right to defend itself, his endorsement of the BDS movement, and his vile accusation that the United States is 'subsidizing genocide' are morally reprehensible.

 

"New York is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. At a time when Jewish New Yorkers face rising antisemitism in our streets, on our campuses and in our politics, Mamdani’s rhetoric adds fuel to the fire. His willingness to appear on a livestream with a figure known for antisemitic commentary is further proof that he is unfit for public office.

 

"Mamdani’s radical views are now dangerously close to the Democratic mainstream. Polling shows he is in second place in the primary, and yet not a single prominent Democrat has condemned his inflammatory words. Silence from Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer and the rest of the Democratic establishment speaks volumes. It’s time Democrats show some moral courage, or admit that Mamdani’s dangerous extremism is no longer an outlier, but part of who they are."

 

-NYGOP Spokesman David Laska

🌱 Greening NYC: GrowNYC and the City's Garden Movement

Pictured: An archival photo from GrowNYC’s first ever garden build All People’s Garden. Photo credit: Angie Lee-Gonzalez 

This Earth Month, we’re honoring the dedication of countless urban gardeners and farmers who ignited and continue to grow the community garden and farming movement in NYC. Let’s dive in!

 NYC's Green History: From Crisis to Community

Pictured: An archival photo from GrowNYC’s first ever garden build at All People’s Garden. Photo credit: Angie Lee-Gonzalez

Did you know? During the financial crisis of the 1970s, many parts of the city suffered from widespread urban neglect, with NYC’s most underserved communities being disproportionately affected.

Why it matters: In response to the economic collapse, urban exodus, and increase in abandoned lots, the New Yorkers left behind turned to nature and their neighbors. 

Guerilla gardeners began a radical act of reclamation that not only beautified vacant lots, but soon inspired a city-wide grassroots movement that increased access to green spaces to grow food and plants and gather with community.

Pictured: An archival photo from GrowNYC’s first ever garden build All People’s Garden. Photo credit: Angie Lee-Gonzalez

Over the years, NYC communities have teamed up with trusted friends like GrowNYC to bring nature’s abundance to their neighborhoods. Today, NYC is home to over 550 gardens—the nation's largest urban gardening program!

How to get involved: Find a community garden or green space near you to dig in and support.

 Community Garden Spotlight: East New York

The big picture: Last year, GrowNYC created and revitalized over 20,000 square feet of green space in East New York alongside community members and NYC Parks GreenThumb team!

 Here’s a glimpse into what we achieved:

• At CAUSA Festival Garden, GrowNYC helped install 15 new garden beds.

• By combining two separate gardens, we expanded Euclid 500 Community Garden with 40 garden beds and held a collaborative “Flavors of Cooking Traditions” workshop, where gardeners cooked and shared homemade dishes, including callaloo, Bengali tomato satni with rice, and Guyanese eggplant prepared in two ways with homemade roti.

• Montauk Atkins Community Garden received 15 new garden beds, a rainwater harvesting system, and seating for community events.

• At a daycare center, Urban Strategies Headstart Garden now has raised beds that function as an outdoor classroom for children and their families.

Why it matters: East New York has the most community gardens of any neighborhood in NYC, expanding access to green space and fresh food for its residents. GrowNYC is proud to have worked alongside the community on over 20 garden builds and renovation projects over the years! We are in the process of developing additional gardens, stay tuned for further updates. 

GrowNYC’s Green Space Impact 

Pictured: Students at GrowNYC's Teaching Garden on Governors Island

The big picture: In collaboration with partners and communities, GrowNYC is building and cultivating essential green spaces that not only bolster food security but ignite the spirit of community.

Let’s look at what we accomplished last year:

• 1.1 million New Yorkers visited 173 gardens we helped build.

• 9 new community gardens were built, adding 47,000 square feet of green space to our city landscape.

• 30 community gardens were renovated, ensuring these spaces thrive for generations to come.

• 5 new rainwater harvesting systems were built in community gardens, 1.3 million gallons of water was conserved annually via green infrastructure.

• 130,000 edible and ornamental plants were distributed in the Spring and Fall to gardens.

• 5,000 pounds of produce was donated to community groups from GrowNYC’s Teaching Garden and Container Farm on Governors Island.

The bottom line: Thanks to the leadership of supporters like you, New Yorkers across the city can connect with nature and their neighbors. 

How you can continue to support our work: This Earth Month, honor urban gardeners past and present by sustaining NYC’s green spaces! Your donation helps provide resources to build, maintain, and support community gardens and ensure that all New Yorkers can enjoy these spaces for years to come.