Around Your World
Environmental Learning Resources

Water Resources

The quality of your drinking water is important to your health and well-being. Fortunately, Central New York has abundant supplies of good quality water. Ensuring this precious resource continues to serve future generations of residents is something we all can work toward.

How can you help? Become informed about your watershed (the land area that feeds the rivers, lakes or streams that provide your drinking water). Learn about its current health. Find out what activities take place in the region that could have an impact on water quality. Learn how land use and development decisions may affect water resources. Become involved—join a local water resources organization and make your thoughts known to area decision-makers.

Fascinating Information about Watersheds

• How's My Waterway

Local Agencies and Organizations

• Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District
• Onondaga County Water Authority
• The Skaneateles Watershed Web Site

Energy Conservation

You can put a little extra “green” in your wallet---by using energy more efficiently and by conserving where appropriate! By trying some of the “tricks ” described in the following web sites---some easy, some involved--- you’ll not only be saving money, you’ll be cutting your consumption of gas and electricity, and reducing the amount of pollution in the air.

The list of links was compiled by ESF's Department of Environmental Studies.

• New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)
• US Department of Energy and the US Environmental Protection Agency
  • Information on efficiency of gasoline and hybrid cars.
• The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
  • The Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity and environmental protection.
• The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA)
• US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Energy Star
  • The site offers businesses and consumers energy efficient solutions for homes, businesses, schools, and congregations. It also offers information on energy-efficient products and homes, and home improvement tips.
• US Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)
• The Alliance to Save Energy

Urban Forestry

The urban forest provides many benefits for people. Strategically planted, trees help to keep us cool in the summer, or shield our houses from the frigid winter wind. They also improve air quality and help to prevent storm water runoff.

Improve your world by creating a little oasis in your backyard, on your street, or in your neighborhood!

ESF Resources for Trees in Central New York

• Tree species recommended for Central New York
• Tree species not recommended for Central New York
• Bibliography of Native Trees

Links to Helpful Websites

• 50 Careers in Trees

Recreation

Upstate New York is a natural treasure. We live and work amid scenic hills, verdant forests, and countless lakes and rivers. Each change of the season imparts a new and inviting view of our landscapes.

One of the best ways to learn about nature is to experience it. Get out and enjoy your world! There is plenty to see and do in Syracuse, and the surrounding region, for any age or preference. The following links suggest opportunities for camping, hiking, boating, hunting, fishing, skiing, and more. Also, take a look at the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, which suggests seven guidelines for learning to be a responsible outdoor enthusiast.

Try these helpful web pages to find a place to visit in Upstate New York!

Places to Visit:

• City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation, and Youth Programs
• Onondaga County Parks
• New York State Parks, Recreation, & Historic Preservation
• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation "Outdoor Activities"

Things to do:

• Onondaga Cycling Club
• Adirondack Mountain Club
• Appalachian Mountain Club
• National Outdoor Leadership School