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DEC: new mapping resources, hunting information now available on 'DECinfo Locator'

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Wed, Oct 9th 2019 03:20 pm

Information about hunting on state land now among 55 interactive data layers available on DEC’s online tool

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced new additions to the recently launched “DECinfo Locator,” which is making new resources and information available to help hunters plan their outings this fall and throughout the year. DECinfo Locator has added two data layers – hunting on DEC-managed lands and wildlife management units – designed to help provide detailed mapping functions for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts.

"DEC is committed to connecting more New Yorkers with nature and making it easier to find the great opportunities that await visitors across the state," Seggos said. "The DECinfo Locator is a valuable tool for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts, expert and novice, looking to maximize their time outdoors, and continues to provide greater transparency about the full range of DEC’s work.”

The hunting mapping layers announced are among several enhancements to DECinfo Locator since the application debuted in July, with additional data layers expected in coming months. The new layers can be found in the “Land-related Activities” category under the “Outdoor Activity” tab.

The wildlife management units data layer is visible at all zoom levels. To view data from the hunting layer, zoom in on the map until the “Hunting on DEC-Managed Lands” legend label turns from gray to black. Clicking on a hunting icon brings up links to information specific to that parcel. There are also links to general hunting regulations, a hunting season map summary, and a link to help hunters report harvests.

DECinfo Locator offers other layers that can be helpful to hunters planning excursions, including lean-tos, primitive campsites, parking areas (all visible under the “DEC Recreational Assets” layer), and trails (a separate category). The application's measurement tools can help hunters further evaluate an area of interest, and the “Near Me” tool organizes map information into an interactive list of assets within a radius (one to 10 miles) from a point the user sets on the map.

With more than 55 interactive data layers, DECinfo Locator lets users see and download permits, former industrial site cleanup plans, water quality reports, and more based on where they live, work or play. Selecting a map feature can bring up links to database records for petroleum bulk storage facilities, oil wells, or permitted mines. Users can also view potential Environmental Justice areas and Climate Smart Communities or find out what local wastewater facilities are doing to reduce their impact on New York's waterbodies. Several information layers can be activated at the same time, allowing users to see the many ways DEC is working to protect and enhance the state's environment and recreational opportunities.

Additional information about how to use DECinfo Locator, including a YouTube tutorial, can be found on DEC's website.

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