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

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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.

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Rockland Health Department Is Offering Free Rabies Shots For Cats, Dogs and Ferrets April 27th

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The Rockland County Department of Health announces free rabies vaccinations for cats, dogs, and ferrets belonging to Rockland residents on Sunday, April 27th, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at 50 Sanatorium Road, Building A in Pomona. 

To get a free rabies shot, please be sure:

  • Your dog, cat, or ferret must be healthy
  • Your pet needs to be at least 4 months of age
  • Your dog must be on a leash
  • Your cat or ferret must be on a leash or in a carrier

Appointments are required for each animal.  To make an appointment or for more information, visit http://rcklnd.us/rabiesvax or call 845-364-2656. Please check Facebook.com/rocklandgov for weather-related cancellations before arrival. The shots are free, however, a $5 donation per animal will help defray costs. Please bring exact cash or check payable to Commissioner of Finance. Please arrive 15 minutes before your pet’s scheduled appointment time.

New York State law requires that all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Owners can be fined up to $250 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up to date. All animal bites and animals suspected of having rabies must be reported to the Rockland County Health Department at (845) 364-2656.  After hours, callers should contact the Rockland Sheriff’s Office at (845) 364-8600.

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Supervisor George Hoehmann Talks Construction At New Site For “Chick-fil-A” In Nanuet

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Check out News 12 Hudson Valley’s interview with Supervisor George Hoehmann discussing the construction of the brand-new Chick-fil-A opening later this year in #Nanuet!

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