The New York State bird conservation area (BCA) program: a model for the United States

Abstract

The New York State Bird Conservation Area (BCA) Program, modeled after the National Audubon Society’s Important Bird Areas Program, is based on legislation signed by Governor Pataki in 1997. New York is the first state in the nation to enact such a program. The BCA program seeks to provide a comprehensive, ecosystem approach to conserving birds and their habitats on state lands and waters, by integrating bird conservation interests in agency planning, management, and research projects, within the context of agency missions. Several state agencies and conservation organizations are involved in the BCA Program through representation on the Advisory Committee.