Since the inception of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in 1970, the agency’s mission to protect, sustain, and improve our environment is a cause that has united all cultures and heritages. Environmental stewardship is integral to many cultures, and the pursuit of ensuring a clean, healthy environment now and into the future remains DEC’s goal on a professional and personal level.

November is Native American Heritage Month, an opportunity for DEC and all New Yorkers to recognize the contributions that Indigenous peoples made, and continue to make, to protect our shared environment. This includes the ongoing stewardship of land in accordance with traditional teachings and ecological knowledge, despite centuries of dispossession. During this month, and year-round, DEC is working to improve our relationship with Indigenous peoples while also recognizing past challenges.

DEC’s Office of Indian Nations Affairs is leading the agency’s efforts to enhance and deepen proactive engagement with State and federally recognized Indian Nations by improving consultation, building shared knowledge, and advancing meaningful cooperation.

DEC Workforce Diversity and Inclusion

DEC is pleased to share the Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Implementation Plan for Fiscal Years 2021-2026 (PDF). This plan outlines our priorities and goals as we continue to cultivate and promote a diverse and inclusive culture where employees feel welcomed and motivated to do their best. These goals and priorities reflect DEC’s commitment to support diversity programs; promote continuous learning and discussion of diversity and inclusion; recruit qualified candidates of different backgrounds, experiences, and talents; provide internal developmental opportunities; and assess what more we can do to nurture a supportive and inclusive work environment.