$50,000-$300,000

NYS Community Forest Conservation Grant Program

$1 million in competitive grant funding is now available through the NY State’s Community Forest Conservation Grant Program. Community forests build local ownership of forests, local participation in forest management, and contribute to the State’s goals of conserving 30 percent of New York’s lands and waters by 2030.

Municipalities can use this funding to purchase land or conservation easements to create or expand community-owned forests to sustain and protect wildlife habitat, promote clean air and water, preserve biodiversity, and increase access to recreation opportunities and open space.

Municipalities may apply for a minimum of $50,000 up to a maximum of $300,000. Eligible locations for acquisition include private properties of 10 or more acres within New York State. At least 75% of the property must be forested.

Additional Information:
Grant projects must result in the acquisition of community forests through use of fee title (purchase) or conservation easements. Projects must acquire private lands that are not already owned by the eligible applicant. Community forests must be publicly accessible and provide benefits for the public such as recreation access (fishing, hiking, biking, hunting, wildlife observation, etc.), flood mitigation, wildlife habitat, clean water, and forest products (timber, maple syrup, etc.).

Funding Agencies: NYSDEC

Frequency Details: Annual