Policy

Alyssa Marcy, Cornell University Institute for Public Affairs Graduate Student. The memo explores what's new with WIFIA and highlights changes of interest to stakeholders in New York State. Additionally, see here for a case study regarding how the Indiana Finance Authority used WIFIA to enhance CWSRF capacity.

Here we comment on and support the science review that accompanied the 2015 WOTUS rule. While this issue has created controversy and confusion, much of what we know about the connectivity of streams and wetlands to downstream waters is well founded in scientific theory and observation. Examples of such connectivity and its impact on our communities here in New York can be readily found. As a neutral broker of information with respect to water resource science and management, the NY Water Resources Institute seeks to inform elected officials and decision makers on issues of state and national importance. This comment is not a policy statement. Rather, it is an invitation to discuss a complex issue with a baseline of common scientific understanding. 

Knighton, J & C Morris, pertaining to solar array installation, submitted to the NYSDEC.

Watkins, L, BG Rahm, and MT Walter, submitted here to the International Joint Commission.

NYSWRI article "Desalination in northeastern U.S.: Lessons from four case studies" is cited by Rockland County Legislature Chairman Alden Wolfe in a letter to the New York State Public Service Commission.

Rahm, B.G. 2013. Testified on "Lessons Learned: EPA's Investigations of Hydraulic Fracturing." US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Environment and Subcommittee on Energy Joint Hearing. Washington, D.C.

NYSWRI article "Desalination in northeastern U.S.: Lessons from four case studies" is referenced by NY Assembly woman Ellen Jaffee and Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell in a joint letter to the New York State Public Service Commission.

Provided manuscript and information in support of S. 601 Water Resources Development Act of 2013 on request to the office of U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (NY).

NY Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee cites NYSWRI article "Desalination in northeastern U.S.: Lessons from four case studies" in a letter to the New York State Public Service Commission.

NYSWRI report "A perspective on the USEPA study of Pavillion, Wyoming - Relevance and lessons for NY" is referenced by U.S. Rep. Maurice Hinchey (NY) during the USHR16 Appropriations Committee meeting.

Rahm, B.G. 2011. Testified on "Waste Water and Cuttings as they Pertain to Hydraulic Fracturing." New York State Senate Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation. Canandaigua, NY. Video Link

Rahm, B.G.; Riha, S.J. 2011. Submitted comments to "Revised Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement." New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Rahm, B.G.; Riha, S.J. 2011. Submitted comments to "Draft Natural Gas Development Regulations." Delaware River Basin Commission.

Rahm, B.G. 2011. Testified on "Hearing on the Continued Examination of Hydraulic Fracturing Including the NYSDEC and DRBC Processes." New York City Council Committee on Environmental Protection. New York, NY.