New York Constitution Article XIV - Conservation
New York Constitution – Article XIV: Conservation (Summary)
Purpose:
Article XIV of the New York Constitution deals with the protection and preservation of the state's natural resources, especially forests, parks, and other lands owned by the state. It is one of the most famous and unique conservation provisions in any U.S. state constitution.
Key Provisions of Article XIV:
Section 1 – Forest Preserve Lands ("Forever Wild")
Main Principle: The lands of the State Forest Preserve (primarily in the Adirondack and Catskill regions) must be:
"Forever kept as wild forest lands."
Not leased, sold, exchanged, or taken by any corporation, public or private.
Timber cannot be sold, removed, or destroyed.
This clause is constitutionally binding and intended to preserve the wilderness character of these lands.
Section 2 – Reforestation and Preservation
Allows for:
Reforestation and the development of state-owned forest lands.
Acquisition of lands to reforest or prevent floods/erosion.
Creation of state parks and wild forests for public use and enjoyment.
Section 3 – Use of Reservoirs
Permits the state to use and develop forest preserve lands for the construction of reservoirs for municipal water supply, under strict conditions and subject to legislative approval.
Section 4 – Ski Centers
Authorizes development and maintenance of ski areas in Forest Preserve lands within specific limitations (e.g., Belleayre, Gore, and Whiteface Mountains) while attempting to minimize environmental impact.
Section 5 – Historical Sites
Permits the care, custody, and control of historical sites and battlefields by the state.
Importance of Article XIV:
The "Forever Wild" clause (Section 1) is one of the strongest constitutional protections for wilderness areas in the United States.
Any exceptions or amendments to it require approval by two successive legislatures and a statewide referendum.
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