Communities in the Southern Tier will get a direct voice in shaping local environmental policies as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation hosts an environmental justice listening session in Elmira, giving residents a chance to speak with agency experts and influence decisions that affect their neighborhoods.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said the session gives residents direct access to technical experts and agency leadership in a historically disadvantaged community. “DEC remains committed to protecting environmental quality in the Southern Tier and addressing burdens in communities that need it most,” she said.
The Elmira session is scheduled for March 17 at Stephans Lounge, Meier Hall, Elmira College, 625 Gates Lane. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. with an informal resource fair and roundtable discussions on climate adaptation, sustainable remediation, and public lands access. A formal presentation from DEC leadership begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by opportunities for attendees to provide feedback on local environmental issues.
The event is open to residents and community leaders. For more information and registration, visit the DEC’s Office of Environmental Justice website.
Future listening sessions across the state will be announced throughout 2026.
