Atlantic States Legal Foundation Inc.

The Atlantic States Legal Foundation Inc. is a New York chartered not-for-profit organization established in 1982. Its mission is to provide technical, legal, and organizing services to a wide variety of environmental issues affecting citizens, citizen groups, local governments, and other entities. The foundation focuses on environmental protection, community engagement, and legal advocacy to address systemic environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.

Mission and Activities

Atlantic States Legal Foundation Inc. works to preserve the environment by developing and promoting innovative and practical solutions. Key areas of focus include:

• Environmental Protection: The organization is committed to the protection, restoration, and conservation of water resources. It has played a significant role in improving water quality, notably in the case of Onondaga Lake, which was once considered the most polluted lake in the Western Hemisphere. Through litigation and community engagement, ASLF helped reduce nutrient and sewage pollution, resulting in the lake's transformation into a site for recreational activities.

• Community Engagement and Collaboration: ASLF builds bridges between communities, technical experts, and government entities to advocate for systemic improvements in environmental management and policy-making. It emphasizes the importance of community assets in enhancing environmental quality and community well-being.

• Urban Revitalization: The organization supports green infrastructure projects, such as green roofs, porous pavement, and rain gardens, to control stormwater and combined sewer overflows. This approach has made Onondaga County a national model for using green infrastructure technologies.

Projects and Initiatives

One notable initiative is the One Million Gallons (OMG!) Community Partnership Program, which aims to capture one million gallons of stormwater runoff annually by implementing green infrastructure in Syracuse. This project underscores ASLF's commitment to community collaboration and public outreach in addressing environmental challenges.

Financial Overview

Atlantic States Legal Foundation Inc. operates on a budget derived primarily from program services, with additional revenue from contributions and other sources. As a not-for-profit, donations to the organization are tax-deductible, supporting its ongoing environmental and community-focused projects.

Governance and Leadership

The foundation's leadership includes a board of directors and officers who are dedicated to environmental stewardship and legal advocacy. While specific compensation information for key employees is not detailed, the organization emphasizes volunteerism and community engagement in its operations.