To submit a request to be added to the email list or to inquire about membership, please see the Membership page.

Citizens Shaping Environmental Policy

Who We Are

The Environmental Management Council (EMC) was established in 1971 by the Broome County Legislature to preserve, protect, and enhance the local environment. We are one of several EMCs in New York State.

The members of the EMC are Broome County residents with a concern for the environment. While some of our members have formal training in the environmental field, many  are self-taught. EMC volunteers are from a variety of occupational and professional backgrounds, including business, education, engineering, science, and homemaking.

You don't have to be an expert on the environment to participate. The only requirement is interest.

What We Do

The EMC is Broome County government's citizen advisory board on local environmental matters. The EMC is the focal point for public participation in local government decisions that effect the County's environment.

Since 1971, the volunteer members of the EMC have conducted meetings and public information sessions, and prepared and presented reports, plans and advisory resolutions. Topics of concern to the EMC include natural resource management, water resource protection, land use planning, sustainable development, and solid & hazardous waste management.

We also are involved in special events such as the annual Riverbank Clean-up, Environmental Photo Show, and annual Earth Day celebrations.

Where to Find Us

The EMC office is located in the Broome County Office Building, Government Plaza, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY 13902-1766.  We can be reached at 607.778.2114 Ext. 2.

How You Can Participate

All EMC Meetings are open to the public and we welcome new participants.  The best way to get involved is to attend a meeting.

EMC General Meetings

Meetings of the full EMC are held on the first Thursday of the month in the afternoon or early evening at the Broome County Public Library.  Please note that meeting locations and times are subject to change. 

Committee Meetings

EMC Committees generally meet monthly at 4 or 4:30 pm at a central location in downtown Binghamton.

Natural Resources Committee

Promotes an understanding and sense of stewardship on the part of County residents with regard to the natural resources that surround us.  Reviews proposals for development, promotes appropriate and consistent land use practices, supports and helps establish municipal Conservation Advisory Commissions (CAC's).
 
Recycling & Waste Management Committee

Currently does not meet, but will reconvene if needed. Advises County government on policy and programs related to solid waste management, including recycling, waste prevention, household hazardous waste disposal, composting and landfilling.

EMC Membership

Membership on the council is open to all Broome County residents.  You can see the Membership page for more information.

EMC Resources are Available to You

The volunteer members of the EMC are assisted in their work by the staff of the Broome County Department of Planning and Economic Development.  Municipal leaders, residents, business owners, or any other members of the general public that need technical assistance can contact EMC staff and they will try to assist you. EMC also has a long-standing student internship program.