2006 New York Code - Protection of natural resources and the development of agricultural lands.

 
    §  4.  The  policy  of  the state shall be to conserve and protect its
  natural resources and scenic beauty and encourage  the  development  and
  improvement  of  its  agricultural  lands for the production of food and
  other agricultural  products.  The  legislature,  in  implementing  this
  policy,  shall  include  adequate provision for the abatement of air and
  water pollution and of excessive and unnecessary noise,  the  protection
  of  agricultural lands, wetlands and shorelines, and the development and
  regulation of water resources. The legislature shall further provide for
  the acquisition of lands and waters, including improvements thereon  and
  any  interest  therein,  outside  the  forest preserve counties, and the
  dedication of properties so acquired or  now  owned,  which  because  of
  their natural beauty, wilderness character, or geological, ecological or
  historical significance, shall be preserved and administered for the use
  and  enjoyment  of  the people. Properties so dedicated shall constitute
  the state nature and historical preserve and they shall not be taken  or
  otherwise  disposed  of  except by law enacted by two successive regular
  sessions of the legislature.