OTSEGO COUNTY CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION INC

Engages volunteers in long-term scientific data collection to support regional conservation, including monthly water quality monitoring at 16 stream sites, weekly Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) surveillance on Otsego Lake and Canadarago Lake, assessment of aquatic organism passage at culverts, and invasive species surveys. Data is compiled and made publicly available for use by government and research entities.

Conducts and funds basic environmental research on topics including hemlock woolly adelgid, beech leaf disease, aquatic organism passage, and harmful algal blooms. Collects and publishes scientific data for public use, including watershed assessments and monitoring reports, to inform policy and conservation decisions.

Hosts an annual Earth Festival featuring educational workshops, eco-focused vendors, interactive exhibits, local food, and sustainability activities, drawing hundreds of attendees. Organizes volunteer roles, facilitates tabling opportunities for environmental groups, and includes a Drive Through Drop Off Recycling Event. Also participates in farmers markets, school events, and hosts seasonal Garden Parties, an Annual Dinner, and Member Appreciation Picnic.

Develops and distributes educational resources and toolkits for schools and teachers, including MWEE-aligned lesson plans, an Environmental Literacy Course, and a workbook to help school districts create Environmental Literacy Plans. Established the Master Gardeners program to train volunteers in horticulture and public education.

Presents the annual Conservationist of the Year Award to honor individuals or organizations contributing significantly to environmental stewardship in Otsego County.

Offers year-round environmental education programs for residents of all ages, including school-based initiatives, family nature walks, lectures, workshops, and outdoor learning experiences focused on local ecology, conservation, and sustainability. Programs include the Get the Kids Out series, Community Connections adventures, Homeschool Nature Walks, Queer Outdoors, and the Be Informed Lecture Series.

Initiates and recruits volunteers for Otsego County’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, enabling safe disposal of hazardous materials by residents.

Conducts hands-on invasive species control through volunteer-led removal efforts on public and private lands, manual eradication projects (e.g., water chestnut on Goodyear Lake), and ongoing monitoring that has led to reduced population sizes and densities at targeted sites. Combines field action with public education and outreach.

Provides training, advocacy, and direct support to municipalities in Otsego County on sound land use practices and environmental protection. Engages in broader advocacy for air, land, and water resource protection and founded the Sustainable Working Group to promote sustainable lifestyles and climate awareness.

Organizes annual and recurring programs to promote recycling, composting, and reuse, including a countywide Recycling Day event, Drive Through Drop Off events during Earth Festival, Plastic Film Recycling Challenge, Repair Café co-hosting with volunteer repair assistance, and a composting operation that has processed over one million pounds of organic waste since 2010.

Maintains trails at Arnold Lake, Basswood Pond, and Milford State Forests through volunteer programs and has rebuilt trails at LaCava Nature Center. Also publishes "Otsego Walks & Paddles," a guide promoting low-impact recreational use of local trails and waterways.