The purpose of this site is to enhance communication and participation of Sierra Club members and concerned citizens in preserving our environment. 

Government often gets a bad rap. We refer to our legislators as “politicians”, and I often hear what “they” are doing to us. Wrong! A democratic government is “Of the people, By the people and For the people”. WE elect those in office and they are responsible to US. However, “by the people” means that responsibility does not end when we elect individuals to represent us. Therefore, when we vote for and hopefully elect a person we trust, we must still do due diligence to carefully monitor the work being done and the laws and legislation being passed, so that our will and needs are being represented.

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By Debra DeSocio

Climate change is very real. Our local DEC website states, in New York State the average temperature has increased by 3 degrees Fahrenheit since 1970. It is projected to increase by an additional 3 degrees Fahrenheit by 2080, Yet, in a recent article in syracuse.com, Upstate cities were deemed a place of safety to reside as the entire country becomes hotter.

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By Lara Heberle

New York is the first state to ban gas stoves. As of 2026, cooking appliances in new buildings less than 7 stories must be electric. By 2029, new buildings greater than 7 stories will join suit.

Does this mean that the government is coming for your beloved gas stove? No, not at all! The requirement only applies to new construction. However, you might want to re-think your love of your gas stove. Gas stoves are major air polluters, and can cause air quality problems in home if there is no hood and vent to the outside. Studies have linked them to 1 in 8 childhood asthma cases [1]. They emit NOx, carbon monoxide, particle matter, and benzene, and similar chemicals which can be carcinogenic - and emissions can occur even when the stoves are turned off. In addition, methane can leak from the stoves, which can cause significant impacts to climate-related emissions.

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Activities are walks, visits to places of environmental interest, talk on topics of interest to the Sierra Club, or member recruiting events.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge / public domain

August 19, 2023, 2 - 4 pm
Rivers Crossing Campground and Marina
508 State Route 89, Savannah, NY 13146
map

Join us for a leisurely, 2-mile paddle on the Clyde River to explore Montezuma’s birds, other wildlife and their unique habitats. The refuge is teeming with birds like the Bald Eagle, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, and Wood Duck. The summer months are a great time to experience these birds as they care for their young and prepare for the autumn migration. Solo kayaks, personal flotation devices, paddles, binoculars and bird guides will be provided. Meet us at Rivers Crossing Campground and Marina, 508 State Route 89, Savannah, NY 13146. 

Fee: $30/per person, $20/person if you bring your own kayak.

Email pplumley@syr.edu if you plan to attend.

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Read the August 2023 Central-Northern NY Group newsletter.

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