Regional Briefs – May 19, 2019

New York Officials Launch Annual Birdwatching Challenge

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) – New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation is launching its annual birdwatching challenge, with versions for beginners and experts alike.

The “I Bird NY” beginner’s challenge is open to anyone 16 years old or younger. Participants must identify 10 common bird species listed on the challenge form available online.

In the experienced birder challenge , participants must identify at least 10 of 50 species and enter sighting information on the challenge form.

Cuomo Creates New Panel to Study Future Of Erie Canal

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) – The future of the Erie Canal will be the focus of a new state task force created to study how to reinvent the historic waterway as an economic engine.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the creation of the new panel on Friday.

It will look at ways to better use the canal, for tourism, recreation, transport and irrigation for farms in western New York.

New York State Parks Are Hiring 1,000 Lifeguards

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) – More than 1,000 lifeguards are being sought by New York’s parks agency to staff its beaches and pools this summer.

State park lifeguards must meet eligibility requirements including successful completion of a qualifying test that includes demonstration of swimming, lifesaving and CPR skills.