The following is a brief summary of the projects the Hudson Mohawk RC&D Council is working on or has recently completed.

Livestock Processing Initiative: The Hudson Mohawk RC&D Council has been assisting in the development of a limited liability corporation, the Northeast Livestock Processing Service Company (NELPSC). Funded in part by a New York State Ag and Markets grant, the Service Company's mission is to create a more profitable environment for farmers and livestock processors by creating a more efficient system which will offer better scheduling, act as a communication link between farmers and processors, and help to resolve quality control issues. To receive assistance from the NELPSC please call processing coordinator Kathleen Harris at (518) 673-5193.

Grazing Lands Conservation: The Council is providing education to livestock and horse owners on grazing and pasture preservation through a grant from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Grazing Land Conservation Initiative. Using rotational grazing with proper pasture management can conserve resources and prevent erosion and polluted runoff as well as save money and energy for the farmer while increasing herd health. With funds from NRCS the Council has sponsored pasture walks, workshops, and the creation of grazing plans for individual farmers. For information about upcoming workshops or if you are interested in a grazing plan for your farm, please call (518) 828-4385 x105.

Venison Donation: The Council has helped facilitate the donation of thousands of pounds of venison to area food banks while reimbursing processors for the meat that is received. Over 70,000 pounds of venison were donated during the 2005 hunting season, 3,724 pounds of which were donated in the Hudson Mohawk RC&D area. If you would like to donate venison, please visit www.venisondonation.com to find a processor near you.

Dry Hydrants: The Council, in partnership with County Soil and Water Conservation Districts, has facilitated the installation of hundreds of dry hydrants to increase fire protection in rural areas. The Council is starting a new initiative to help rural communities increase their fire protection while lowering their ISO insurance risk rating, thereby saving homeowners and businesses money.

Hudson River Lighthouse Coalition: The Council was instrumental in the development of the Hudson River Lighthouse Coalition which seeks to connect tourism, historical and lighthouse trails, educational interpretive centers and materials to promote, protect, restore and preserve the lighthouses of the Hudson River.