To receive a copy of the 2008 Annual Report detailing these and other CWC achievements, call toll-free 877-WAT-SHED. The report can also be found online - go to the Publications page of the Corporation’s website, www.cwconline.org.

The CWC Board of Directors oversaw several special projects in 2008, including renovation of the Delaware Inn in Stamford under the Business District and Historic Structures Fund; an exploratory project to determine the value of grass pellets as a fuel source under the Catskills Studies Fund; and a new website to promote the tourism and business potential of the Catskills region, which will be launched this summer.

Outreach initiatives included the well-attended Catskills Local Government Day with featured speaker Pete Grannis, Commissioner of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation; training for planning and zoning board members; participation in the Batavia Kill Stream Celebration, Shandaken Day, the Little World’s Fair in Grahamsville and other special events; and distribution of information on Marcellus Shale gas drilling, invasive species and other issues of watershed interest.

At the CWC meeting, invasive species and their potential impact on the Catskills were addressed by Bill Rudge, Natural Resources Supervisor for Region 3 of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Didymo, a harmful algae recently discovered in the Esopus Creek, is likely to "change the way we fish our streams," he explained. The Asian Longhorned Beetle, focus of a workshop May 6 that is open to the public, could result in the removal of thousands of trees if it is found in the Catskills, Rudge warned. Those interested in attending the ALB forum at Belleayre Mountain can register at www.cwconline.org.

An update on the Memorial Day Weekend opening of the Cannonsville Reservoir for recreational boating was provided by Paul Rush, Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Department of Environmental Protection. Non-mechanized boats such as canoes, kayaks and sailboats will be allowed on the reservoir after they are steam cleaned in a new program intended to enhance tourism in the region. An opening event is planned for May 21. Details will be announced.

Gary Gailes, Chairman of the Water Discovery Center Board of Directors, also attended the CWC meeting to brief the board on progress towards creating a world class educational and exhibit facility focused on the world’s fresh water supply. Robert Kennedy, Jr., chief prosecuting attorney for Riverkeeper, has agreed to chair the Leadership Team as the non-profit organization seeks funds to develop the Center in Arkville. Former DEP Commissioner Marilyn Gelber has agreed to serve on a National Advisory Board, and talks are moving forward with the American Museum of Natural History to establish an educational collaboration with the Center.

The next monthly meeting of the Board of Directors will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the CWC’s Margaretville headquarters. The public is cordially invited to attend.