The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, in partnership with Cornell University’s New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, has launched a new citizen science initiative called Snapshot NY. The program allows residents to play an active role in monitoring wildlife across the state using trail cameras.
The effort aims to improve how the DEC tracks and manages more than a dozen wildlife species by gathering large-scale, long-term data submitted by everyday New Yorkers.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton says the collaboration is vital to improving wildlife research across the state, particularly because over 60% of New York’s land is privately owned.
“This new collaborative effort will help DEC biologists collect critical information about wildlife in areas where our experts have historically lacked access,” Lefton said. “Snapshot NY is a fantastic opportunity to get outside, connect with nature, and directly contribute to conservation.”
Dr. Angela Fuller, a professor at Cornell and leader of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, called the initiative an “unprecedented opportunity” to collect valuable wildlife data and strengthen partnerships among scientists, agencies, and the public.
How to Get Involved
Volunteers don’t need experience—just a trail camera, internet access, and a willingness to participate. Here’s how to join:
- Place a Trail Camera: Use your own camera (preferred) or request one from the program. Volunteers are encouraged to set up cameras on private land or public land with permission. The state has been divided into about 4,500 grid blocks to help distribute coverage evenly.
- Upload Photos: Images are uploaded every couple of weeks via the Snapshot NY app, along with the GPS location, date, and time. These images help form a statewide wildlife dataset.
- Choose a Survey Block: Volunteers can select a grid block on the Snapshot NY website. If their preferred area is already taken, they’re encouraged to consider nearby blocks or join a waitlist.
Snapshot NY is open to all nature lovers—from seasoned outdoorspeople to curious beginners. To sign up or learn more, visit https://www.dec.ny.gov or search for Snapshot NY.
