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Rockland Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Warns of Backyard Netting Dangers to Local Wildlife

Published

1 year ago

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Rockland County, NY — Sports nets, garden netting, and discarded mesh materials are becoming an increasing hazard for local wildlife. From songbirds and birds of prey to small mammals, animals can easily become entangled in these materials, often resulting in injury, prolonged distress, or death.

Just weeks ago, a groundhog was discovered trapped in a backyard soccer net in Rockland County. Fortunately, the incident ended safely thanks to swift action, homeowner cooperation, and expert guidance from local wildlife advocate Andres. However, many animals caught in similar situations are not as lucky.

Simple Precautions Can Make a Big Difference

Local wildlife experts are urging residents to take preventive measures to help reduce the risk of entanglement:

  • Remove soccer nets, volleyball nets, and other recreational mesh when not in use

  • Secure garden or construction netting to prevent wildlife from becoming trapped

  • If netting must remain outside, inspect it regularly, especially in the early morning and evening

These small steps can prevent unnecessary suffering and even save lives.

As suburban development continues to encroach on natural habitats, human actions—both harmful and helpful—play an increasingly vital role in the survival of native wildlife.

Raising Awareness, Protecting Wildlife

Wildlife conservation groups emphasize that prevention is the most effective solution. By staying mindful of common household items like nets and mesh, Rockland County residents can help ensure the safety and well-being of local animals.

For more information on how to protect wildlife or to report an animal in distress, residents can contact RocklandWildlife.org @RocklandWildlife   845-558-7931

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Government

Rockland County Shares Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers, Students

Published

4 weeks ago

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August 27, 2026

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With the new school year just around the corner, Rockland County roads will soon become busier with children walking and biking to school, crossing streets and gathering at bus stops during the morning and afternoon commute.

The county is reminding parents, caregivers, students and drivers to take extra precautions to help keep children safe as they return to school.

Younger children can be especially difficult for motorists to see, while some students may be using a new bus stop, crossing unfamiliar streets or walking to school on their own for the first time.

Through its federally funded Safe Streets program, Rockland County is sharing several back-to-school safety reminders for students and motorists.

Safety Tips For Students

Students waiting for the bus are encouraged to:

  • Arrive at the bus stop early and avoid rushing.
  • Stay at least 10 feet away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
  • Look left, right and left again before crossing a street.
  • Never walk behind a school bus.

Safety Tips For Drivers

Motorists are reminded to slow down and remain alert when driving near schools, bus stops and areas where children may be walking or biking.

Drivers should also obey flashing school bus lights and stop as required when children are entering or exiting a school bus.

With more students expected on local roads once classes resume, the county is urging everyone to stay attentive and give children the extra time and space they need to travel safely.

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Government

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

Published

1 month ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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