DEC protects the land, water, and air resources in New York. We help New York's farmers, ranchers, and non-industrial forest landowners conserve the nation's soil, water, air and other natural resources.Learn about nature conservation in New York, including environmental issues and resources from The Nature Conservancy. Start exploring New York! Natural Resource Stewardship. US Conservation laws, such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), help define the United States' stance on conservation. International environmental agreements (IEAs) are signed treaties that regulate or manage human impact on the environment in an effort to protect it. CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Guarantees acceptance to all 26 SUNY ESF programs of study for JCC students who earn an appropriate minimum cumulative grade point average. NRCS experts from many disciplines come together to help landowners conserve natural resources in efficient, smart and sustainable ways.