Riverkeeper urges all citizens to be active observers within their communities, to investigate and report clean water violations. Participation in our Construction Watch and Watchdog programs supports Riverkeeper's ability to track and prosecute polluters.

But it is critical that all investigations are conducted legally. The purpose of this portion of the Citizens’ Toolbox is to help citizens understand the possible consequences of entering the property of others. Although what someone is doing on their property may be illegal, such as the unpermitted filling of wetlands, this does not diminish their property rights, and citizens should understand the law of trespass in New York before they investigate. Please see the document "Trespass in New York" under "Related Info."