NY S09502

Establishes the Great Swamp reserve covering over 6,000 acres in Dutchess and Putnam counties to protect a critical wetland ecosystem and its endangered species habitat.

Creates a 13-member Great Swamp reserve council with representatives from state, county, and town governments to prepare a comprehensive management plan for the reserve.

Establishes a 7-member Great Swamp joint planning and policy commission to prepare and adopt a comprehensive land use plan that designates a core preservation area and compatible growth areas, with plan adoption requiring unanimous vote.

Allows private landowners to voluntarily dedicate land to the Great Swamp preserve through conservation easements and permits them to receive benefits such as transferable development rights, conservation easements, and property tax incentives.

Provides state indemnification for municipalities and counties that implement land use regulations consistent with the approved comprehensive land use plan, except in cases of intentional wrongdoing, recklessness, or discrimination.