In addition to the DEC, there are a number of government officials involved in environmental crimes enforcement at the local, state and federal levels, and many have easy mechanisms that citizens can use to report a problem.  Here's who else you can reach out to:

State & Local Police

Citizens can always contact their state and local law enforcement officials to report crimes and other suspicious activity.  Contact your New York local law enforcement agency or visit this NYS Troop Map which will link you to the appropriate Troop contact information.  You can also anonymously report a crime by emailing crimetip@troopers.state.ny.us

District Attorney Offices

You may also report a potential violation to your county's District Attorney's office.  District Attorneys prosecute crimes (including environmental crimes) that take place within the jurisdiction of their county lines.  To find your county's district attorney, visit the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York's "District Attorney Roster" .

The Office of the New York State Attorney General

The Office of the Attorney General prosecutes state-level crimes and has a unit dedicated to environmental violations: the Environmental Protection Bureau.  Citizens can file complaints about environmental violations by filling out their complaint form here: Attorney General Online Environmental Complaint Form.  Or you may contact the Bureau by phone at: (518) 474-8096

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA is the nation's leading agency on environmental matters.  The agency works with state and local governments to control and prevent pollution in areas of solid and hazardous waste, pesticides, water, air, drinking water and toxic and radioactive substances.  EPA has the power to require clean up and issue fines to law-breaking polluters.

The EPA is divided into 10 regional offices.  New York is part of EPA Region 2.  Citizens can report suspected violations online here: Report an Environmental Violation, or by calling (212) 637-4050.  For an emergency that could endanger the public health, call the EPA's National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802.

Elected Officials

It's the job of elected officials to listen to the needs of their constituents and communities, and often they can help fast-track a resolution to an environmental problem.  Your elected officials are more reachable than you think!  Click on the links below to find out who represents you and how you can contact them:

United States Senators

United States Representatives

New York State Senators  

New York State Assemblymembers

Additionally, every New Yorker is represented by dozens of local officials.  Visit your city and county websites to find out who they are and for contact information.

Section 5: Getting the Word Out