What has existed for 80 years and costs only 14 dollars? If you answered, “Nothing,” you would almost be correct! But subscribers to New York State’s Conservationist, the state’s official outdoor magazine, have the answer in hand. 

When the August/September 2026 issue landed in my mailbox, I eagerly plucked it out and discovered that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is celebrating this amazing milestone of continuous publishing, which began in 1946. 

 But that’s not all! Flipping through the glossy, full-color pages featuring photos of New York’s wildlife and waterways, I learned about an innovative planting project featuring microforests, a recovery initiative for the common tern and a science education program focused on New York’s waterways and watersheds. 

Add a lovely photo essay about the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve by DEC photographer Colin Duryea. Toss in one of my favorite regular features, “On Patrol,” which shares “Real stories from DEC police officers and forest rangers” who perform heroic feats of wilderness rescue (both human and wildlife) and apprehend environmental lawbreakers. 

Other interesting items include informative briefs about upcoming projects, programs, awards and opportunities—like sharing what one loves about New York by entering a photo in the magazine’s annual contest. Winners are featured in the 12-month calendar issue published in December. Even if you don’t win, your subscription includes the inspiring calendar to be enjoyed throughout the coming year. 

Don’t miss the “Letters to the Editor” section, where folks reach out about all sorts of New York natural wonders, from spider babies to puffball mushrooms to mysterious holes on holly trees; the holes were identified as the work of a sapsucker (a type of woodpecker) by the DEC. 

There is often a section designed especially for children, too, with activities aimed at connecting kids with the natural world. All this and more, brought to your door for $2 per issue! 

And if you happen to be heading to the New York State Fair, August 26 through September 7, stop by and say hi to the folks who make the Conservationist come together. While there, you can subscribe and receive a free gift. New York residents can also enter to win a kayak. 

I must confess—and you can sing along—“I Love New York!” Now don’t get me wrong—I also love my home state of Pennsylvania and the classic holiday tune that springs to mind, featuring Perry Como crooning about homemade pumpkin pie. It brings a wistful tear to my eye.

But since the majestic state of New York is just across the Delaware River and this nature column covers both sides of the mighty waterway, I have found the Conservationist to be a valuable and enjoyable resource. 

That said—you wouldn’t be reading this column and learning about the Conservationist if not for the River Reporter. If you already help to keep this equally valuable regional community newspaper alive by subscribing—thank you! If not, please consider starting a subscription soon to learn more about the richness of the natural resources throughout the Upper Delaware River region. 

Be informed, get inspired and notch up your nature knowledge by visiting www.TheConservationist.org and www.RiverReporter.com to subscribe.