Statewide Municipal Environmental Conference to be Held in Kingston
Published on October 09, 2025
KINGSTON, NY - The Ulster County Department of the Environment, in partnership with the Ulster County Environmental Management Council, invites local environmental commissions, task forces, and councils — as well as municipal officials and community members — to attend the 2025 New York State Association of Conservation Commissions (NYSACC) Conference on the Environment. This statewide gathering of environmental stewards will take place on Friday and Saturday, October 24–25, from 7:30 AM to 5 PM at the Best Western Plus Kingston Hotel and Conference Center. For information, and to register, visit nysacc.net.
The annual conference offers a dynamic opportunity to expand professional networks, share knowledge, and explore innovative sustainability projects in Ulster County. This year’s agenda focuses on advancing conservation through circularity, land-use planning, and energy transition — while highlighting the tools and policies that empower local governments and grassroots leaders to drive environmental progress.
“I’m looking forward to giving welcoming remarks at this year’s NYSACC Conference, and proud that Ulster County is hosting such an important gathering of environmental leaders from across the state,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “It takes us all working together to address the challenges of climate change and protect the resources we depend upon, and Ulster County is committed to doing its part and leading by example. Hosting NYSACC in Kingston gives us the opportunity to show local leaders from around the state some of the great work the County and local governments are doing here."
“Kingston is proud to participate in the Conservation Conference with our fellow municipalities,” said Kingston Mayor Steve Noble. “As we face the increased effects of climate change and the reduction of Federal support, it’s more important than ever to work together on the local government level. I want to thank County Executive Jen Metzger, the Department of the Environment, and the Ulster County Environmental Management Council for bringing us together for this crucial effort.”
On Friday, the conference will feature three thematic tracks: Circularity, Conservation and Land Use, and Energy Transition. Saturday will include field trips to local sustainability sites across Ulster County. Registration also includes a dinner reception and keynote address titled “Innovation Beyond Technical Fixes: Building Trust and Vision for Environmental Leadership” by Stephen Posner, Director of the Pathways to Planetary Health initiative at the Garrison Institute.
Ulster County benefits greatly from the dedicated work of its local environmental bodies, including Conservation Advisory Councils, Conservation Boards, Climate Smart Community Taskforces, and Environmental Management Councils. The NYSACC conference provides a crucial platform for these groups to gain new insights, share best practices, and enhance their capacity to protect and conserve our natural resources.
Details and registration information for the 2025 NYSACC Conference are available at nysacc.net. All are encouraged to register for cost-free field trips on Saturday, October 25. Field trip registration can be found at the bottom of the conference’s events page.
About the Ulster County Environmental Management Council:
The Ulster County Environmental Management Council (EMC) fosters collaboration among municipalities, advises county leadership on environmental matters, and promotes public engagement in conservation efforts. Comprised of representatives from local Conservation Advisory Councils and other stakeholders, the EMC serves as a forum for sharing knowledge, coordinating initiatives, and amplifying the impact of grassroots environmental work across the County.
About the New York State Association of Conservation Commissions (NYSACC):
Established at the request of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, NYSACC supports local government-led conservation efforts by strengthening environmental commissions, councils, and task forces across New York State through resources, training, and advocacy.