Seward Breaks Logjam, Frees Up Dutch Hollow Funding

ONEONTA, 11/16/15 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced that technical issues delaying a state grant he secured to assist with the Dutch Hollow Brook Watershed Restoration Project have been alleviated and funding will be released shortly.

“At times, when multiple state and local agencies become involved in administering grant funds, the actual distribution of money can become complicated,” said Senator Seward.  “The funding to assist with this important environmental project was never in jeopardy; it was just a matter of resolving the paperwork issues.  I am pleased that the green light has now been given.”

Senator Seward secured $200,000 secured as part of the 2014-15 state budget to support the environmental work.   The office of the New York State Comptroller has reviewed the situation and given the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) the authority to move forward with the administration of necessary contracts.

The Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will oversee the Dutch Hollow Brook Watershed Restoration Project which will include:

• The implementation of Best Management Practices (BMP) to address and alleviate nutrient loading to Dutch Hollow Brook;
• Stream bank stabilization and debris removal;
• Water quality monitoring.

“This grant will enhance the ability of the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District, in concert with other local stakeholders, to make notable improvements to this prime source of drinking water, recreational activity, and future economic development,” Seward added.

Owasco Lake is the drinking water source for approximately 44,000 residents in Cayuga County as well as an important natural resource for the local economy and many watershed residents. 

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