Connect with us

Government

Seasonal Shark Activity Increases in New York’s Marine Waters During Summer Months

Published

on

The annual summer migration of sharks into New York’s coastal waters is underway and sightings of shark activity in the nearshore ocean waters is expected to increase. DEC encourages New Yorkers to be aware of their surroundings in the water and the potential for shark-human interactions and follow DEC guidelines to minimize the risk of negative interactions.

“New York State has world-class ocean beaches that are desirable destinations to many visitors during the summer months. It’s also a wild and natural marine ecosystem that supports a wide diversity of marine life, including sharks,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “Human-shark interactions are rare events in New York. However, DEC encourages all beachgoers to respect these animals and follow shark safety guidance to minimize their risk of negative interactions with sharks.”

To reduce and minimize potential interactions with sharks, New Yorkers are encouraged to take the following steps:

  • Avoid areas with seals;
  • Avoid areas with schools of fish, splashing fish, or diving seabirds;
  • Avoid swimming at dusk, night, and dawn;
  • Avoid murky water;
  • Swim, paddle, and surf in groups;
  • Stay close to shore, where feet can touch the bottom; and
  • Always follow the instructions of lifeguards and park staff.

Humans assume risk whenever they enter any wild environment, whether on land or in the water. Although it is impossible to eliminate risk altogether, ocean users can modify their behavior to minimize potential interactions with sharks and reduce overall risk. When in the ocean, follow DEC’s shark safety guidelines to minimize the potential for negative interactions with sharks.

Sharks have existed in New York’s marine waters for millions of years. Today there are more than 13 shark species that migrate through New York’s marine waters each year. Each shark species has unique habitat and food preferences and plays an important role in maintaining a healthy and balanced marine ecosystem. Sharks can prevent other species from monopolizing limited resources and degrading the marine environment. The presence of sharks in New York’s marine waters is a positive sign of a healthy marine ecosystem. Learn more about sharks in New York by visiting DEC’s website.

Governor Kathy Hochul also recently announced enhanced shark monitoring and additional surveillance capabilities implemented this summer to protect visitors from negative shark interactions.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Government

Rockland County Offers Free Mosquito Dunks® and Mosquito-Eating Minnows to Residents

Published

on

Protect your home and community from mosquitoes this spring and summer!

The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) is offering free mosquito control products to residents, including Mosquito Dunks® and fathead minnows, to help reduce the mosquito population and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.


Mosquito Dunks® – Available by Appointment

What they are: Small, floating “donuts” that release safe bacteria to kill mosquito larvae in standing water.

Who can get them: Rockland County residents for use in unused swimming pools, spas, and other water-holding containers.

How to get them:

  • Pick-up location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building D, Pomona, NY

  • By appointment only – Reserve in advance by calling 845-364-3173 or emailing [email protected]

  • Required: Download and complete the order form from the Mosquito Control Program webpage and bring it with you to your scheduled pickup.


🐟 Fathead Minnows – One-Day Giveaway Event

What they are: Small fish that eat mosquito larvae—up to 200 larvae per day!

Event Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, Building D, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY
Important: Minnows must be released only within Rockland County

How to reserve:

  • Register online via the Mosquito Control Program webpage, or

  • Call 845-364-3173
    Note: The event date and time are subject to change. Signs will be posted to guide attendees to the correct location.


For more information, visit the Rockland County Health Department Mosquito Control Program webpage.

Continue Reading

Government

988: Three Numbers That Can Change a Life

Published

on

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for anyone feeling overwhelmed, sad, stressed, or in a mental health crisis. It’s free, private, and available 24/7.

What happens when you contact 988?

  • You’ll talk with a trained counselor who listens and cares.

  • They’ll help you feel supported and work through what you’re going through.

  • You can call, text, or chat—whatever feels best for you.

988 is for everyone.

  • You don’t have to be in a serious emergency.

  • You can reach out for yourself or if you’re worried about a friend or family member.

Sharing 988 can save lives.
Let’s help more people know that support is just three numbers away.
You’re not alone—and no one else has to be either.

Continue Reading

Trending