The Conservation Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Town Board, Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to the use of land and its effect, both short and long term, on the environment. Its purpose is to advise on environmental factors which should be given consideration in the decision-making process. These environmental factors include the impact of land use proposals on the land, air, rivers, streams, wetlands, wildlife, vegetation, agricultural production, significant geological features, objects/sites of historical significance, and aesthetics of the landscape.

The Rush Conservation Board also provides advice and assistance to applicants in applicability, interpretation, preparation and processing of all permits, statements and plans required under the New York State Environmental Conservation Law for certain land use proposals.

Requirements which impact applicants include:

• Article 24, Freshwater Wetlands Act. This act requires permits for filling, draining, excavation alteration of freshwater wetlands of 12.4 acres or more as well as activities on lands within 100 feet of the vegetation boundaries of each wetland.
• Article 8, State Environmental Quality Review Act. This act requires the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by applicant for certain land use proposals.
• Article 23, Mined Land Reclamation Act. This act requires the preparation and approval of a Mining Plan and a Reclamation Plan for mining activity (sand and gravel operations) of 1000 tons within any 12 successive months. This law is administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Applicants may be requested to appear before the Rush Conservation Board for discussion of land use proposals requiring either Freshwater Wetlands permits or Environmental Impact Statements.