Relates to adding the Bash Bish to the definition of inland waterways

Title of bill

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to adding the Bash Bish to the definition of inland waterways

Purpose

To designate the Bash Bish as an Inland Waterway for purpose of the State's Coastal and Inland Waterways program.

Summary of provisions

This bill amends Subdivision 4 of section 911 of the Executive Law by expanding the definition of "inland waterways" to include the Bash Bish.

Justification

The Bash Bish originates out of a spring in the Town of Mount Washington in Massachusetts and falls over the Bash Bish Falls. It then continues into New York State through the Taconic State Park into Copake Falls before flowing into the Roeliff Jansen Kill in Ancram. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has classified the Bash Bish as a cold-water habitat having conditions suitable for trout or trout spawning. The town of Copake's 2011 Comprehensive Plan recognizes that the "management of all water resources is a top priority in Copake."

The Bash Bish has historical significance in Copake and an important natural resource for the Town. The Bash Bish Inn and former Copake Iron Work, now a museum, are both located along side the Bash Bish. The Harlem Rail Trail, from Wassaic to Chatham also goes over the Bash Bish. The former Harlem Rail Line used to have a station alongside the stream and is now a visitor location for hikers on the Rail Trail. Copake also benefits from visitors who use the Bash Bish for trout fishing and kayaking.

Designating the Bash Bish as an inland waterway would allow the town of Copake to apply for grants though the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. These grants will help in Copake's plan to implement local waterfront revitalization programs to foster the beneficial use of the waterfront and to protect and preserve the health and quality of the Bash Bish for the residents of Copake, the County of Columbia, and the State of New York.

Legislative history

This is a new bill.

Fiscal implications

None to the Senate.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.