New York's waterfronts extend more than 5,000 miles encompassing all of Long Island, New York City, the Hudson River, the State Canal System, the St. Lawrence River, the Great Lakes shoreline, the major rivers, and inland waterways including the Finger Lakes, Lake George, Lake Champlain, and the lakes of the Adirondacks.

Waterfronts shaped the settlement and economy of New York State. Ninety percent of the state's population and a wide variety of economic activities are concentrated in the communities along its waterfronts–from the largest cities to the smallest hamlets. New York's ports are critical components of the national and regional economies, and its many small harbors support numerous water dependent uses.

Changing economic conditions and business practices have resulted in abandonment of industrial lands along many waterfronts, leaving areas that are often contaminated, isolated and uninviting. Reclaiming these brownfields as a key component of community revitalization will save open space and rejuvenate the economies of many older waterfront communities.

Our waterfronts are rich in natural resources–with abundant fish and wildlife, as well as, beaches and wetlands, forests, and rolling farmlands. These areas serve as valuable habitat for fish reproduction, growth, and migration; for bird feeding, nesting and migration; and for shellfish growth and reproduction. New York waterfronts are rich and diverse, suporting rare plant communities and several threatened and endangered species. These valuable ecosystems contribute to long-term sustainability and quality of life at local, regional and national levels.

The history, cultural amenities, and natural resources of our waterfronts are all exciting reasons to make them public destinations. There are opportunities for fishing and hunting, wildlife photography, bird watching and nature study, as well as boating, swimming, biking, and walking. Never before have so many people been involved with water recreation. Waterfronts attract people and contribute to economic development, tourism, community pride, and neighborhood vibrancy.

More and more people are realizing that their waterfronts can be a catalyst to bring new life and energy to their entire community. Waterfronts are one of the state's most valuable resources.