N.Y. Soil & Water Conservation Districts Law § 2: Declaration of policy

§ 2. Declaration of policy. (1) Preservation of soil and water

resources. It is hereby declared to be the policy of the legislature to

provide for the conservation of the soil and water resources of this

state, and for the improvement of water quality, and for the control and

prevention of soil erosion and for the prevention of floodwater and

sediment damages and for furthering the conservation, development,

utilization and disposal of water, and thereby to preserve natural

resources, control and abate nonpoint sources of water pollution, assist

in the control of floods, assist in the drainage and irrigation of

agricultural lands, prevent impairment of dams and reservoirs, assist in

maintaining the navigability of rivers and harbors, preserve wildlife,

protect the tax base, protect public lands, and protect and promote the

health, safety and general welfare of the people of this state.

(2) Promotion of soil health and resiliency. It is further declared

the policy of the legislature to promote the health and resiliency of

New York's agricultural soils, including the biological, physical, and

chemical components of such soils, to sustain agricultural plants and

animals, produce a healthy, affordable food supply, promote climate

resilient farming and the reduction of agricultural greenhouse gas

emissions, and further protect and promote natural resources and the

health, safety and welfare of the people of this state.

(3) Utilizing resources to enhance the quality of life. It is further

declared the policy of the legislature to encourage the use of

agricultural land for recreational uses which are consistent with the

primary use of such land while, at the same time, promoting additional

tourism and employment opportunities and income for landowners in rural

areas and enhancing the quality of life of persons not otherwise able to

obtain access to agricultural land for recreational uses.