Senator Bonacic Announces Availability of Urban Forestry Grant Funds

(Middletown, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) announced today the availability of Urban Forestry Grant Funds for local municipalities to take advantage of. At least $2.3 million in Environmental Protection Fund grants will be available for urban and community forestry projects throughout neighborhoods and parks to provide environmental, economic and social benefits, and improved quality of life for New York’s urban residents. Communities may request from $11,000 to $75,000, depending on municipal population.

In addition to municipalities, public benefit corporations, public authorities, school districts, community colleges, soil and water conservation districts, municipal corporations, Indian nations and tribes, and not-for-profit corporations are eligible. Applications must be submitted on the NYS Grants Gateway by 2 pm on March 1, 2017. Paper applications will not be accepted.

“I would strongly encourage local organizations and municipalities to explore grant opportunities through this program,” said Senator Bonacic. “This year’s budget, which I supported, included a record $300 million for the Environmental Protection Fund because my colleagues and I understand the need to protect our environment, and provide conservation programs like this one.”

Questions related to this grant can be directed to Mary Kramarchyk: mary.kramarchyk@dec.ny.gov. For more information about registering or applying for this grant opportunity in the Grants Gateway, contact grantsreform@budget.ny.gov. Instructions for applying in the Grants Gateway are available on the Department of Environmental Conservation’s website: http://dec.ny.gov/lands/528.html.