CONTINUED DEDICATION TO CONSERVATION

The New York State Conservation Council brought members, agency professionals and conservation leaders together August 28–30 in Hancock and Livingston Manor for the 2026 Fall Convention, centered on the theme “Continued Dedication to Conservation.” The three-day program blended Council business, policy development, DEC updates, advocacy, elections, awards recognition and planning for the year ahead.

Friday opened with President Keith Tidball’s final convention report, reflecting on two years of renewed visibility, stronger DEC and legislative engagement, improved communications and more active committees. Executive Director Bruce McGowan reviewed continued organizational modernization, followed by Legislative Vice President Anthony Kordziel’s update on tracked legislation, action campaigns and the importance of member involvement. Treasurer Diane Steel reported that the Council closed 2025 in a substantially strengthened financial position, with significant growth in income, a positive year-end result, improved cash reserves and a portion of reserve funds placed in short-term certificates of deposit to earn interest. The report also emphasized the importance of strengthening recurring revenue and maintaining careful financial planning as Council programs and advocacy continue to expand. Committee updates highlighted the growing depth of volunteer participation across the Council.

Saturday featured extensive DEC wildlife and fisheries presentations, adoption of revised NYSCC bylaws, consideration and passage of the convention’s resolutions, and a major update on the Right to Hunt, Fish, Trap & Harvest Wildlife initiative. Members were asked to help build the statewide coalition through county resolutions, petition signatures, partner recruitment and legislative relationships. Elections also marked a leadership transition, with Brian Krawczyk elected President and a new 2026–2027 leadership slate selected. The day concluded with a Catskills Fly Fishing Museum facility tour and the annual dinner and awards presentation.

Sunday focused on the future of the organization. Members reviewed tentative 2027 meeting dates, a proposed dues adjustment and optional three-year rate lock, development of a junior leadership program, legislative procedures, outreach through National Hunting and Fishing Day and a membership recruitment challenge. The closing town hall reinforced a consistent convention message: NYSCC’s statewide influence depends on informed, active members carrying the Council’s work back to their regions, counties and clubs.