Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda

A Vital River Ecosystem

Robust Estuarine Fish Populations: Populations of signature Hudson River fish are robust and balanced with the larger ecological community and contaminant levels are declining in all target species. 

Robust River Habitats: River and shoreline habitats are conserved, protected, or enhanced to ensure that life cycles of key species are supported to sustain a healthy ecosystem. 

Clean Hudson River Water: Water quality in the Hudson River estuary is suitable for swimming and recreation, supporting fish and aquatic life, and providing clean drinking water for communities that rely on this source.

A Thriving & Resilient Watershed

Healthy Tributaries: Healthy rivers and streams are maintained, while degraded tributaries are identified and improved to deliver high-quality fresh water to the estuary and to drinking water sources while providing for important habitat connections.

Climate-Adaptive Communities: Hudson Valley communities are thriving, resilient models for adapting to climate change using natural, nature-based, and socially equitable solutions. 

Conserved Natural Areas: Priority lands and waters are identified and protected through planning, land-use policy and land protection, and connectivity of conserved habitats and natural areas in the estuary watershed is achieved. 

People Living Well With Nature

An Informed and Engaged Public: Curricula and programs are empowering a diverse audience of students, educators, and communities to engage in environmental stewardship actions. 

An Accessible Hudson River for All: The regional system of access points along the Hudson River and its tidal tributaries is resilient and enables all people to have rich river experiences.