CONSERVATION EASEMENT APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED Did you know that WAC’s Easement Program accepts new conservation easement applications on a rolling basis? Our team is especially...
Our Mission
To promote the economic viability of agriculture and forestry, the protection of water quality, and the
conservation of working landscapes through strong local leadership and sustainable public-private partnerships.
Our Footprint
The Watershed Agricultural Council works with hundreds of farm and forest landowners in the NYC Watershed. Together, with our program participants, we have an expansive Conservation Footprint in the region.
To see if you’re in the NYC Watershed, visit our map below!
Upcoming Events
June 2025
Visit the Watershed Agricultural Council and Pure Catskills at the Meredith Dairy Fest June 7 (10am-5pm) and June 8 (10am-4pm). We will have a vendor tent of PC members and WAC participant farm and forest members. Pure Catskills members and WAC farms can attend as a vendor for free, but you must commit to both days of the event. To attend: Download and print the application: Vendor Application For general event information visit meredithdairyfest.com or contact: meredithdairyfest@gmail.com
Find out more »This class focuses on techniques for handling difficult trees. Topics covered include limbing, height measurement, segment calculations, wedging techniques and hinge placement. The felling is done against the tree’s natural lean and participants also limb and buck using techniques demonstrated in level 2. This class is eligible for 1 TLC CE Credit. Preference is given to loggers in the NYC Watershed Region, and those participating in our programs. This class will take place in the Catskills Region, exact location to…
Find out more »September 2025
Introduces open face felling and the development of techniques to safely use it. Topics covered include personal protective equipment, chainsaw safety features, chainsaw reactive forces, bore cutting, pre-planning the fell, and understanding hinge wood strength. Preference is given to loggers in the NYC Watershed Region, and those participating in our programs. This class will take place in the Catskills Region. Call Heather at (607) 865-7790 extension 119 to register.
Find out more »Avenza Maps can enhance the planning and implementation of BMPs, and help ensure sustainable and effective timber harvest operations. Learn how to navigate using Avenza, create data and put it to use in a practical field exercise. This class will be taught by WAC foresters and representatives from the Northeast Master Logger Certification Program. To register call Heather Hilson at 607-865-7790 ext. 119
Find out more »October 2025
This training covers wildlife habitat, timber harvest planning, soil and water quality protection, and other topics. This class is one of the three core classes required to become Trained Logger Certified. Call Heather at (607) 865-7790 extension 119 to register.
Find out more »The level of this Game of Logging class will be based on demand from throughout the year. Preference is given to loggers in the NYC Watershed Region, and those participating in our programs. This class will take place in the Catskills Region, exact location to be determined closer to the day. Call Heather at (607) 865-7790 extension 119 to register.
Find out more »November 2025
This class is one of the three core classes required to become Trained Logger Certified. These classes are also offered by local schools, hospitals and fire departments. Call Heather at (607) 865-7790 extension 119 to register.
Find out more »News
March 2025 News
SAFE WINTER AND WET WEATHER MANURE SPREADING We are currently in a season that presents significant risks for manure applications. This winter has brought unique...
Press Release: WAC and DEP Announce $228 Million in Contracts
NYC DEP Commits $228 Million to Help Protect Forests Near the Watershed, Support Area Farms and Agriculture Through Local Partnership FEBRUARY 4, 2025, HAMDEN, NY-...
