Environmental & Energy Law Section Oil Spill Symposium 2026

The Annual Oil Spill Symposium is a lively, interactive round table discussion that has been held for more than 15 years. The Symposium continually welcomes a diverse group of environmental consultants, engineers, attorneys, and other environmental professionals. It is always a great place to learn about current issues related to petroleum spills and socialize with others who practice in this field in our state. 

12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.               

Lunch and Registration

1:00 p.m. – 1:10 p.m.                 

Welcome and Introduction

Melissa Valle, Esq.

Harter Secrest & Emery LLP

Rochester, NY

1:10 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.                 

Government Perspectives Panel

Colleen Galligan, Esq.,

New York State Office of The Attorney General

Albany, NY

Patrick Holloway, Esq.,

Office Of State Comptroller Oil Spill Fund

Albany, NY

Kyle Pero, Esq.,

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Albany, NY

2:10 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.                

Recent Spill Guidance

Kayley McGrath, Esq.

Sive Paget & Riesel, P.C. 

New York, NY

Greg Mendez-Chicas, CHMM

Vice President, Impact Environmental

Bohemia, NY

3:10 p.m.- 3:30 p.m.                  

Break

3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.                 

Case Law Update

4:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.                    

Current Issues of the Day, Roundtable Discussion on Homeowner Liability

Please also join us immediately following the Symposium for the complimentary networking reception at the New York State Bar Association, 1 Elk Street, Albany, NY. Separate registration required.

Albany Membership Reception | Environmental & Energy Law Section – New York State Bar Association