Larkin Announces Hudson River Restoration Grants

William J. Larkin Jr.

June 5, 2005

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) today announced several local grants that have been awarded to Orange and Ulster Counties for projects to strengthen and preserve the natural resources of the Hudson River Estuary and its tributaries and watersheds.

"I feel especially fortunate to be able to live near such a beautiful and historic waterway," said Senator Larkin. "I have enjoyed the Hudson River’s natural beauty and years of recreation on it with my children and grandchildren. These estuary grants will continue our commitment to restoring the river and ensure that its ecosystems continue to improve in the future. We must continue to do all we can to revitalize this precious natural resource and preserve it for future generations."

The following grants were awarded:

Orange County:

Museum of the Hudson Highlands -- $15,000 for the development of a Hudson River Science Institute teacher training program.

The Orange County Water Authority -- $35,000 for the development of the Moodna Creek watershed management plan.

Ulster County:

Town of Lloyd -- $20,000 for the establishment of a Black Creek watershed public access and interpretation site linked to the Hudson Valley Rail Trail.

Scenic Hudson Land Trust Inc. -- $75,000 for development and construction of the Esopus Meadows Point Preserve Water Trail site offering hand launched boating and fishing access, environmental education, recreational hiking and wildlife observation.

City of Kingston Ulster -- $20,000 for the purchase of beach cleaning equipment to improve swimming conditions at Kingston Point Beach.

Town of Marlborough -- $25,000 for a feasibility study for a canoe/kayak boat launch at Dock Road.