A longtime conservation leader with deep roots in environmental policy is stepping in as the new head of New York’s vast parks and historic sites network. Kathy Moser has been appointed Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. She will serve in the role while awaiting confirmation by the State Senate next year. With more than 250 parks, trails, historic landmarks, and recreation areas under its care, the agency hit a record 88 million visits in 2024. Moser holds degrees in botany and forest productivity from Duke University and served in the Peace Corps in Honduras.