Public comment is now open with the state Department of Environmental Conservation as state officials look to update the state’s Species of Greatest Conservation list. 

According to a DEC release, the list is used by state officials to decide which animals and plants the DEC should focus their conservation efforts on most. 

The list is a guide for the department in it’s rule making an can affect construction project approvals, park designations and preservation efforts, state officials say. 

“DEC encourages all scientific experts, stakeholders and all New Yorkers to provide their input on the draft list of Species of Greatest Conservation Need as we go through the revision process and identify the threats that must be addressed to protect the state’s wildlife and habitats,” officials said in a press release. 

Of the species under consideration, DEC officials say those most at danger of extinction or being driven out of New York state are paramount, along with those in danger due to disease, human encroachment on habits and other potential threats. 

Those species deemed to be at risk of series population decline within the next 10 years are the highest priority, officials said. 

Frogs, mayflies, sea turtles, a number of fish species, whales, dolphin species and a number of other mammals are part of the draft list. 

Comments can be submitted by emailing nyswap2025@dec.ny.gov or visiting https://dec.ny.gov/nature/animals-fish-plants/biodiversity-species-conservation/state-wildlife-action-plan

Comments must be submitted by Jan. 14, 2025.