Environment
The guiding principle of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is to conserve, protect and enhance the natural, ecological, historic, cultural, and recreational resources of New York State and provide access to these resources for public enjoyment in way that will protect them for future generations.
OPRHP is the steward for more than 350,000 acres of state parkland, which harbors an extraordinary diversity of plants, animals, and ecological communities that make a unique contribution to the natural environment of New York State. This includes natural communities of statewide significance, state and globally rare plant and animal species, National Natural Landmarks, and countless other natural assets. OPRHP is responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing these resources for public enjoyment today and into the future. Responsible stewardship strives for a balance between public use and protection of all natural resources.
With more than 225 diverse properties across the state, OPRHP offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities including: campgrounds, swimming beaches, golf courses, swimming pools, nature centers and more than 2,000 miles of trails. Approximately 90% of state parks' property remain natural, with natural lakes, streams, rivers, ocean beaches and dunes, as well as scenic waterfalls, gorges, springs and bluffs.
Conducting Research in New York State Parks
State Parks are an excellent setting for conducting scientific research. To conduct research on state park property, please complete the application for a Scientific Research Permit.
Division of Environmental Stewardship and Planning
It takes a large-scale effort to properly care for and provide access to nature within state parks and historic sites, including effort from all state park & historic site employees as well its many visitors. The Division of Environmental Stewardship and Planning (DESP) within OPRHP consists of dedicated employees that have training and experience in natural, historic, and cultural resource conservation, ecological restoration, environmental education and interpretation, land use and outdoor recreation planning, geographic information systems, land acquisition and surveying, and environmental impact analysis.
DESP facilitates continual collaboration internally as well as with other OPRHP bureaus, regions, and on-site staff. DESP works with numerous State, Federal, and private organizations and partners every day to further our multifaceted mission to steward the bountiful and diverse environmental resources New York State has to offer.
The work of DESP is performed in 5 general program areas: environmental stewardship, planning and environmental analysis, environmental education and interpretation, GIS and data management, and real property services.
For assistance or more information, please call DESP at 518-474-0409 or email DESP.help@parks.ny.gov.
The Division of Environmental Stewardship and Planning
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
Albany, New York 12238
Phone: (518) 474-0409
Fax: (518) 474-7013