Cahill Calls On Governor to Protect Stream Gauge Operations

March 25, 2009

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster/Dutchess) sent a letter to Governor Paterson today requesting that he direct the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to exert its authority over State waterways to ensure the continued operation of the stream gauges slated for budget cuts by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. Information collected at these locations represents a key component in the development of flood warning, response and mitigation strategies for communities downstream.

“The DEP’s decision to put budgetary concerns over the safety and well-being of communities throughout our region is deplorable,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “These gauges play an essential role in the development of our comprehensive disaster preparedness and watershed management plans; the state needs to step in to ensure they are not shut down.”

“The DEP has an obligation to strike a balance between fulfilling its responsibilities as steward of the New York City water supply and acting as a good neighbor to the people throughout the Catskill Region. In that latter role that includes playing a productive role in our flood protection efforts, I have called upon the DEP to reverse its decision and to remember the legitimate costs of safety and prevention no matter what the fiscal situation,” said Mr. Cahill.

The DEP has reduced the amount of funding sent to the United States Geological Survey for the operation of stream gauges inside and outside of the New York City watershed. Information collected from these stream gauges represents a key component in the development of flood warning, response and mitigation strategies. The discontinuance of funding for select gauges could to impede ongoing flood preparedness efforts. In most cases, DEP is the sole local contributor to the federally-sponsored gauges. Assemblymember Cahill is urging the DEC to either provide the funding for the stream gauges or use their authority to order the DEP to continue their contribution.

“The State and Federal government, working with our partners on the local level, New York City included, have made significant progress in addressing many of the challenges brought about by the recurring flooding that has ravaged Upstate communities in recent years,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “We cannot afford to take a step backwards. We must all work together to find an equitable solution to this situation.”

Text of letter is below.

March 24, 2009

Honorable David Paterson, Governor
State of New York
Executive Chamber, State Capitol
Albany, New York 12224

Dear Governor Paterson:

I write regarding the recent decision by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to discontinue funding for select United States Geological Survey stream gauges throughout the New York City watershed. I respectfully urge you to direct the Department of Environmental Conservation to utilize its authority over the State’s waterways ensure the continued operation of these critical safety mechanisms.

As you know, over the last few years we have witnessed massive and unprecedented flood events that have resulted in the loss of life and millions of dollars of damage to properties located throughout Upstate New York. In realization of the clear and continuing threat presented by reoccurring flooding, we have partnered with our Federal representatives, local governments and other essential stakeholders to take on the challenging issues related to flood prevention, response and recovery. Together we have made significant progress toward developing comprehensive disaster preparedness and watershed management plans to help protect those communities that might be impacted by flooding.

The DEP -- a critical partner in these on going efforts -- is now threatening that progress. The discontinuance of funding for select United States Geological Survey stream gauges throughout the New York City watershed could to impede efforts vital to the safety and well-being of communities downstream. Information collected from these stream gauges represents a key component in the development of flood warning, response and mitigation strategies. In most cases, DEP is the sole local contributor to the federally sponsored gauges.

New York State cannot afford to place our communities at risk and force residents and businesses to exist under a constant state of fear over repeats of floods and other dangerous conditions. I urge the DEC to use its authority to the fullest extent possible to ensure that requirements are satisfied to maintain stream gauge operations.

As always, I appreciate your consideration.

Sincerely,
Kevin A. Cahill
Member of Assembly

cc: Pete Grannis, Commissioner, Department of Environmental Conservation
Steven Lawitts, Acting Commissioner, Department of Environmental Protection

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