N.Y. Environmental Conservation Law § 22-1050

§ 22-1050. Definitions.\n For the purposes of this article the following terms shall have the\nfollowing meanings:\n 1. "Mining" means the extraction or removal of minerals from the\nground or the breaking of the surface soil in order to facilitate or\naccomplish the extraction or removal of such minerals for commercial or\nindustrial use; but shall not include excavation or grading when\nconducted solely in aid of on-site farming or construction.\n 2. "Person" means any natural person, corporation, association,\npartnership, receiver, trustee, executor, administrator, guardian,\nfiduciary or other representative of any kind, and includes any\ndepartment, agency or instrumentality of the state or any of its\ngovernmental subdivisions.\n