Resources for

Green Infrastructure

Resource

Level of Effort:

Culverts and Climate Resilience Fact Sheet

This fact sheet produced by the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) reviews how culverts are defined in Connecticut, explains their connection to climate resilience, provides examples of how Connecticut towns are addressing needs for upgraded culverts, and highlights related resources.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Halesite, NY

Halesite Park Shoreline Restoration

With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program, in December 2024 1653 Foundation was awarded $549,955 from the NYSDEC Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program to fund the Final design and implementation of habitat improvements and green infrastructure at Halesite Park, NY.

1653 Foundation Inc. will restore degrading shoreline at Halesite Park on the eastern shore of Huntington Harbor. The project will remove a failing seawall to expand shallow water habitat, install an offshore rock sill and oyster reef, and expand salt marsh vegetation, and upland plantings.

LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:

Grant Writing Consultant: DLB Planning, LLC.
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $9,900

New York State
Erosion
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Recreation & Access
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Mystic, CT

Mystic River Watershed Resilience Action Plan

With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program, in December 2024 the Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed was awarded $419,900 from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund to support the project: Developing a Mystic River Watershed Resilience Action Plan Using Equitable Community Engagement, CT.

The project will launch a robust engagement effort and planning process throughout four municipalities and two Tribal Nations within Mystic, Connecticut, in order to initiate efforts to improve the watershed health along the 30.6-square-mile Mystic River Watershed. The project will develop a community- and stakeholder-supported EPA Nine Element watershed-based plan, which will strive to address water quality impairments, community inequities and resilience challenges in the watershed.

LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:

Grant Writing Consultant: Resilient Land and Water, LLC.
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $9,950

Connecticut State
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Nassau & Suffolk County, NY

ReWild Long Island Community Gardens Program

With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program, in December 2023 ReWild Long Island was awarded $230,300 from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund to fund the project – ReWild Gardens for Long Island Sound: Implementation of an expanded community garden program Long Island within the LISS watershed.

The Community Gardens Program installs native plant gardens with community partners who plant & maintain them. The Summer Program to Fight Hunger and Climate Change supports high school students to plant & tend gardens with local nonprofit partners.

LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:

Grant Writing Consultant: Elizabeth Skolnick
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $7,500

New York State
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Cold Spring Harbor, NY

North Shore Land Alliance Shore Road Sanctuary Habitat Restoration Project

With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program, in December 2023, North Shore Land Alliance was awarded $192,969 from the NYSDEC Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program to fund the implementation of green infrastructure at the North Shore Land Alliance Shore Road Sanctuary in Cold Spring Harbor, NY. The North Shore Land Alliance will install an upland infiltration system to reduce the volume and velocity of stormwater on a 40-acre parcel and replace invasive plants along the shoreline with a native plant community. The project will restore habitat and reduce the amount stormwater and pollutants entering Cold Spring Harbor and Long Island Sound.

LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:

Grant Writing Consultant: Nelson Pope & Voorhis
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $9,900

New York State
Erosion
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Recreation & Access
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Events

Long Island Sound Study Stewardship Strategy Public Meeting

The Long Island Sound Study will host a series of public meetings to discuss and finalize the Stewardship Strategy. The Strategy aims to provide a framework in support of the 33 Stewardship Areas of the Initiative. The draft of the Strategy will be shared for public comment March 10 – May 9. View the Draft Strategy here. Comments can be submitted to Cayla Sullivan at Sullivan.Cayla@epa.gov.

The last meeting in the series will be held on June 4th 11 am – 1 pm and will summarize the input and ideas for advancing the Stewardship Strategy!

New York State
Connecticut State
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure
Marine Debris
Waste Management
Wetlands
Community Engagement
Policies & Regulations
Funding/Grants
Extreme Weather & Storms
Recreation & Access
Planning
Incentive Programs
Erosion
Water Quality
Stormwater Management
Economic Impacts
Aquatic Resources
Sea Level Rise
Environmental Health Hazards
Nature-based Solutions
Land Use
Habitat
Flooding

$1 million to $10 million per project

NYS EFC Green Resiliency Grants

This competitive grant program through the NYS Environmental Facilities Cooperation is designed to support flood-prone communities in implementing transformative green infrastructure projects that combat the effects of extreme weather. Eligible projects must utilize green infrastructure (GI) stormwater management practices (SMPs) and/or nature-based solutions to manage combined and/or sanitary sewer overflows and/or mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events.

New York State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Oct 1, 2025

$1,000 - $20,000

The Quinnipiac River Fund

The Quinnipiac River Fund, a component fund of The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, makes grants for projects designed to benefit the environmental quality of the Quinnipiac River, the New Haven Harbor, and surrounding watersheds.

Connecticut State
Erosion
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Recreation & Access
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1, 2025

EPA Water Technical Assistance

EPA WaterTA aims to assist communities with applications for federal funding, quality infrastructure, and reliable water services in partnership with drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities and local government. If your community is facing drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater challenges, you can submit a request for no-cost, direct assistance using the WaterTA Request Form. Please note that WaterTA is not a grant program, nor does it provide direct monetary assistance

New York State
Connecticut State
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Funding/Grants
Community Engagement
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Apr 17 – Apr 27, 2025

FY26 Congressionally Directed Spending / Community Project Funding (Sen. Blumenthal & Sen. Murphy)

Congressionally Directed Spending requests, also known as Community Project Funding or Earmarks, are funding requests for high-impact, Connecticut-based projects that can be completed with assistance from the federal government. The project must meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the accounts listed.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Events

LISCIF 2025 Annual Learning Exchange

The 2nd Annual Learning Exchange will bring together current and new grant recipients to highlight completed projects benefiting the Long Island Sound estuary. Organizations will share their work, challenges, and successes via breakout sessions. Attendees will also have opportunities to participate in workshops, network, strengthen ties, and build community. This annual event aims to be a knowledge and tech share of projects within a collaborative framework.

The Target Audience includes:

  • 2024 and 2025 Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund Subawardees
  • Tribal Groups, Organizations, Institutions, and Municipalities located in Connecticut and New York focused on environmental projects in the Long Island Sound estuary
  • Coastal conservation, restoration professionals, students, and early career professionals working in environmentally distressed communities

New York State
Connecticut State
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure
Marine Debris
Waste Management
Wetlands
Community Engagement
Policies & Regulations
Funding/Grants
Extreme Weather & Storms
Recreation & Access
Planning
Incentive Programs
Erosion
Water Quality
Stormwater Management
Economic Impacts
Aquatic Resources
Sea Level Rise
Environmental Health Hazards
Nature-based Solutions
Land Use
Habitat
Flooding

Events

Living Shoreline Learning Session

Northeast Regional Ocean Council, The Nature Conservancy, and Consensus Building Institute invite you to join us for a lunch-and-learn Living Shorelines Webinar. We look forward to sharing key insights from our recent living shorelines training workshops in Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts, where we explored how site suitability, design, regulatory considerations, community outreach, and adaptation all contribute to the success of living shorelines in New England. This webinar is geared towards planners, engineers, consultants, and coastal practitioners.

Connecticut State
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure

Resource

Level of Effort:

How vegetated buffers protect water quality, and a whole lot more

Use this fact sheet to learn about riparian buffers and how they can be a tool for filtering excess nutrients and sediment from runoff, reducing flood impacts, and providing habitat. Learn more about buffers using this fact sheet. Details include what buffers are, why they are important, best practice recommendations, and design considerations.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1 – Mar 31, 2025

$10,000-$50,000

Suffolk County Soil & Water Conservation District (SCSWCD) Municipal and Community Assistance Programs

This grant opportunity is open to municipalities and non-governmental organizations interested in partnering with SCSWCD to implement a variety of projects focused on improving Suffolk County and its environment. These projects focus on revitalizing and protecting Long Islands ecosystems, waterbodies, ground water and habitats. The goal of this grant is to attract new partners to develop and implement innovative and sustainable solutions for environmental issues.

New York State
Erosion
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Aquatic Resources
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1 – Apr 11, 2025

Up to $3 million

EFC Green Innovation Grant Program

The Green Innovation Grant Program supports projects across New York State that utilize unique EPA-designated green stormwater infrastructure design and create cutting-edge green technologies. Competitive grants are awarded to projects that implement one or more of the following green practices: green stormwater infrastructure, energy efficiency, water efficiency and environmental innovation.

New York State
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Feb 26 – Jun 6, 2025

Minimum grant amount $150,000

Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects

Through New York State’s Clean Energy, Clean Water & Green Jobs Bond Act, the Department of State (DOS) is making $15 million available for implementation projects that improve waterfront and watershed resiliency and reduce climate impacts, particularly flooding. Projects should implement a complete or substantially complete LWRP or a complete or substantially complete relevant LWRP Component (including a watershed management plan funded by Department of State). The program prioritizes projects using natural solutions to enhance community resilience while also delivering environmental, economic and social benefits. Eligible applicants are: 1) A village, town, or city located along New York’s coasts or inland waterways 2) A county with the consent and acting on behalf of one or more eligible villages, towns or cities.

New York State
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Extreme Weather & Storms
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Feb 26 – Jun 6, 2025

Minimum grant amount $300,000

Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects

Through New York State’s Clean Energy, Clean Water & Green Jobs Bond Act, the Department of State (DOS) is making $20 million available for habitat restoration, climate resiliency and risk reduction, and stormwater management projects located within the New York State Coastal areas, areas draining into the New York State Coastal area, and/or areas within the Coastal Nonpoint Source boundary (see map). Projects must be identified or implement goals outlined in state, regional, or local management plans/programs/studies. The program prioritizes projects using natural solutions to enhance community resilience while also delivering environmental, economic and social benefits. Eligible applicants include Municipalities (counties, cities, towns, villages, Indian Nations or Tribes recognized by the state or United States), Not-for-Profits, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and New York State Agencies and Authorities. Projects may include design and construction, or construction.

New York State
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Extreme Weather & Storms
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jan 21 – Mar 3, 2025

up to $4M

DEEP Climate Resilience Fund: Matching Funds for FEMA BRIC

Up to $10 million in non-federal matching funds to support communities applying for the
Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities
program (FEMA BRIC). DEEP’s Matching Funds for FEMA BRIC program is a new funding initiative and is part of the new Deployment category of the DEEP Climate Resilience Fund (DCRF). DCRF supports implementation and construction for community and energy resilience projects.

FEMA BRIC funds pre-disaster hazard mitigation and climate adaption
projects that will enable communities to withstand or rapidly recover from future disasters. For fiscal
year 2024 funds, FEMA is prioritizing projects that align with multiple BRIC program objectives and
the 2022-2026 FEMA Strategic Plan. These objectives include addressing multiple hazards,
incorporating risk-informed nature-based solutions, eliminating disparities across disadvantaged
communities, and mitigating current and future risk to public infrastructure.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Training

This field trip was part of a Community Resilience Project Showcase leading up to the 2024 Annual SRC Workshop.

Hamden Bioretention Project Tour & Workshop

A group of people dressed in warm coats and hats stand on a grassy hillside overlooking a small pond and field. There are trees in the distance.On December 5, 2024, the Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team of the Long Island Sound Study hosted a field trip featuring the Town of Hamden’s Bioretention Project – the largest municipally owned rain garden in the state! Participants began with a guided tour of the rain garden and bioretention areas at Town Center Park, where they heard from project planners and managers about its history, partnerships, challenges, and maintenance. Following this, participants gathered at the Hamden Government Center for a working lunch and presentations on topics including UConn’s Stormwater Corps, native plants, project engineering, and using nature-based solutions to advance climate resilience goals. The day concluded with a lively group discussion. Special thanks to our partners with the Town of Hamden, Save the Sound, the Hamden Land Trust, and UConn Extension.

Photo credit: Judy Benson

Connecticut State
Flooding
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Green Infrastructure
Save the Sound Connecticut Sea Grant logo Long Island Sound Study logo

$75,000 - $350,000

Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

EPA has selected Environmental Justice for New England to serve as pass-through entity for the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grants for CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, and VT. Thriving Communities subgrants will be distributed to support capacity building in communities affected by environmental or public health issues to eligible applicants. The program aims to reduce the burden of the federal grants application process and distribute federal funds to potential applicants working to address environmental justice issues.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Community Engagement
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Training

3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 2 – Resilience Tools

The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2024 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on our assistance programs, new regional resilience resources and tools, and a discussion on planning for inundation and different considerations communities may face.

Session 2 – Resilience Tools was held on Tuesday, December 10th from 1:30-3:30 PM. Participants learned about new Resilience Tools being developed and used throughout coastal Long Island Sound.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure
Long Island Sound Study logo Sea Grant NY Connecticut Sea Grant logo

Training

3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 1 – SRC Resilience Assistance Programs

The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2024 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on our assistance programs, new regional resilience resources and tools, and a discussion on planning for inundation and different considerations communities may face.

Session 1 – SRC Resilience Assistance Programs was held on Tuesday, December 10th from 10-11:30 AM. Participants learned about our Sustainable and Resilient Communities resilience assistance programs and heard from communities who have successfully utilized them to advance resilience project plans, build capacity, and secure competitive grant funding!

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure
Long Island Sound Study logo Sea Grant NY Connecticut Sea Grant logo

$45k-100k for 1-year projects; $75k-150K for 2-year projects

Partners for Places – Round 22

Partners for Places aims to enhance local capacity to build equitable and sustainable communities in the United States and Canada. These matching awards support the planning and implementing of urban sustainability and green stormwater infrastructure projects.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

$200,000-500,000

National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program

The NEP Coastal Watersheds Grant Program is a nationally competitive grants program designed to support projects that address urgent and challenging issues threatening the well-being of estuaries  within the 28 NEP boundary areas.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Sea Level Rise
Aquatic Resources
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Nov 19 – Mar 21, 2025

Climate Smart Communities Initiative

The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) provides funding, expertise, training, and other resources to help communities advance their climate resilience plans and projects while also developing the strategies and capacities that communities nationwide will need as climate impacts intensify.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

RAISE Grant Program

Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program provides grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. The eligibility requirements of RAISE allow project sponsors, including state and local governments, counties, Tribal governments, transit agencies, and port authorities, to pursue multi-modal and multi-jurisdictional projects that are more difficult to fund through other grant programs. The RAISE program was previously known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) discretionary grants.

New York State
Connecticut State
Habitat
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Planning
Green Infrastructure

Events

3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 3 – Planning for Inundation

The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team is excited to announce that for our 2024 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of virtual sessions over two days focused on our assistance programs, new regional resilience resources and tools, and a discussion on planning for inundation and different considerations communities may face.

Session 3 – Planning for Inundation 

Join us on Wednesday, December 11th from 10 AM-12 PM to hear from communities and regional entities that are considering different aspects of planning for inundation, including buyout programs, land use policies, and community perspectives on retreat/relocation.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Events

3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 2 – Resilience Tools

The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team is excited to announce that for our 2024 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of virtual sessions over two days focused on our assistance programs, new regional resilience resources and tools, and a discussion on planning for inundation and different considerations communities may face.

Session 2 – Resilience Tools

Join us on Tuesday, December 10th from 1:30-3:30 PM to learn about new Resilience Tools being developed and used throughout coastal Long Island Sound!

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Events

3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 1 – SRC Resilience Assistance Programs

The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team is excited to announce that for our 2024 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of virtual sessions over two days focused on our assistance programs, new regional resilience resources and tools, and a discussion on planning for inundation and different considerations communities may face.

Session 1 – SRC Resilience Assistance Programs

Join us on Tuesday, December 10th from 10-11:30 AM to learn about our Sustainable and Resilient Communities resilience assistance programs and hear from communities who have successfully utilized them to advance resilience project plans, build capacity, and/or secure competitive grant funding!

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Aug 26 – Oct 23, 2024

Rooting Resilience: Funding and Technical Assistance for Urban and Community Forestry Projects

The Rooting Resilience Program will provide funding and technical assistance to community-based projects that build resilience and enhance communities’ abilities to plan and carry out forestry projects. This opportunity is available for projects located in federally designated disadvantaged communities, including urban, suburban, and rural communities in the United States and its territories. Special priority will be given to community-led groups that are seeking federal funding for the first time.

New York State
Connecticut State
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Economic Impacts
Stormwater Management
Recreation & Access
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

Resource

Level of Effort:

Green Stormwater Infrastructure Workbook

This workbook made by Groundwork Bridgeport provides a thorough but accessible introduction to green stormwater infrastructure. The workbook explains the issues that green infrastructure can help solve, introduces several green infrastructure methods, and then provides definitions, explains why each is uses, and details how to build them.

New York State
Connecticut State
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: May 9 – Aug 16, 2024

Climate Change Risk Assessment Technical Assistance for Water Sector Utilities

EPA’s Creating Resilient Water Utilities (CRWU) initiative is offering no-cost climate change risk assessment technical assistance to drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities, as well as other water sector stakeholders. Through this technical assistance process, CRWU will assist approximately 75 water sector utilities / communities in identifying long-term climate change adaptation strategies, as well as potential funding options to implement adaptive measures.

New York State
Connecticut State
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 9 – Sep 30, 2024

up to $2M for Planning, $5-$100M for Capital Construction

Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Discretionary Grant Program

The Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, available through the Office of the Secretary of Transportation and US DOT, makes awards on a competitive basis for projects that reconnect communities by removing, retrofitting, or mitigating highways or other transportation facilities that create barriers to community connectivity, including to mobility, access, or economic development.

New York State
Connecticut State
Nature-based Solutions
Economic Impacts
Infrastructure
Planning
Recreation & Access
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure

The New York Community Trust: Westchester Ongoing Competitive Grants

The New York Community Trust, which brings together the New York Community Trust, The Long Island Community Foundation, and Westchester Community Foundation offers competitive grants to nonprofits to support projects in a number of areas across New York City, Westchester, Long Island and beyond. For work on Westchester, proposals are accepted from nonprofits during the specified timeframes.

New York State
Habitat
Land Use
Environmental Health Hazards
Water Quality
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

The New York Community Trust: Long Island Ongoing Competitive Grants

The New York Community Trust, which brings together the New York Community Trust, The Long Island Community Foundation, and Westchester Community Foundation offers competitive grants to nonprofits to support projects in a number of areas across New York City, Westchester, Long Island and beyond. For work on Long Island, proposals are accepted from nonprofits during the specified timeframes.

New York State
Habitat
Land Use
Environmental Health Hazards
Water Quality
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Feb 28 – May 17, 2024

$500,000 min

2024 Transportation Alternatives Program

This program provides funding for a variety of transportation projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities; construction of turnouts, overlooks, and viewing areas; community improvements such as historic preservation and vegetation management; environmental mitigation related to stormwater and habitat connectivity; recreational trails; safe routes to school projects; and vulnerable road user safety assessments.

Connecticut State
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Recreation & Access
Green Infrastructure

Resource

Level of Effort:

Conservation Commissions and Natural Resource Resilience

This fact sheet for Conservation Commissions in Connecticut reviews the role of these commissions for enhancing the climate resilience of their communities. The resource was developed by CIRCA and covers the authority and duties of conservation commissions as well as detailing specific strategies and approaches.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Water Quality
Planning
Recreation & Access
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Nov 1 – Mar 31, 2025

$75,000 - $350,000

Thriving Communities Grantmaker Program

EPA has selected Fordham University to serve as pass-through entity for the Thriving Communities Grants for New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Thriving Communities subgrants will be distributed to support capacity building in communities affected by environmental or public health issues to eligible applicants. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until March 31, 2025.

New York State
Flooding
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Community Engagement
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: May 1 – Aug 16, 2024

Green Resiliency Grants

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) is pleased to announce the availability of $60 million in grant funding through the inaugural round of the Green Resiliency Grant (GRG) program under the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act). The new program will prioritize grants to flood-prone communities and help them undertake innovative green infrastructure projects such as green roofs, green streets, and permeable pavement.

Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1, 2025

$500 - $1,000

Seed Grants Program

Awards small grants in support of grassroots efforts and community-based environmental work in New England. The Grassroots Fund utilizes participatory grantmaking to move resources to New England grassroots groups working at the intersections of Environmental Justice. The program is geared toward groups who have some experience implementing a project in their community. Grants support groups to deepen their work by further developing a community vision, lowering barriers to participation, identifying new stakeholders, and working to bring more voices and lived experiences into core decision-making processes.

Connecticut State
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure
Marine Debris
Waste Management
Wetlands
Community Engagement
Policies & Regulations
Extreme Weather & Storms
Recreation & Access
Planning
Incentive Programs
Erosion
Water Quality
Stormwater Management
Economic Impacts
Aquatic Resources
Sea Level Rise
Environmental Health Hazards
Nature-based Solutions
Land Use
Habitat
Flooding

Funding

: Mar 11 – Apr 14, 2024

FY25 Congressionally Directed Spending / Community Project Funding (Sen. Blumenthal & Sen. Murphy)

Congressionally Directed Spending requests, also known as Community Project Funding or Earmarks, are funding requests for high-impact, Connecticut-based projects that can be completed with assistance from the federal government. The project must meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the accounts listed.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Oct 12 – Dec 15, 2023

$800M total available

FY23 Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program – New York

The Flood Mitigation Assistance grant program is a competitive program that provides funding to states, federally recognized Tribal governments, U.S. territories, and local governments. Since the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 was signed into law, funds are used for projects that reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance Program.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Oct 12 – Dec 15, 2023

$1B total available

FY23 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grants (BRIC) – New York

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program will support states, local communities, tribes and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards. The BRIC program’s guiding principles are to support communities through capability and capacity building, encourage and enable innovation; promote partnerships, enable large projects, maintain flexibility, and provide consistency.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1, 2025

up to $9,950

Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program

New York Sea Grant and Connecticut Sea Grant are providing grant preparation and writing capacity to New York and Connecticut communities that are pursuing funding for sustainability and resilience-focused projects. This technical assistance program helps municipalities and community organizations develop successful grant proposals and develop capacity for navigating the funding landscape. 

New York State
Connecticut State
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure
Marine Debris
Waste Management
Wetlands
Community Engagement
Policies & Regulations
Extreme Weather & Storms
Recreation & Access
Planning
Incentive Programs
Erosion
Water Quality
Stormwater Management
Economic Impacts
Aquatic Resources
Sea Level Rise
Environmental Health Hazards
Nature-based Solutions
Land Use
Habitat
Flooding

up to $50,000

New York Climate Resilience Grant Program

The Nature Conservancy is pleased to announce a fifth round of funding available in New York through our Climate Resilience Grant Program. The program supports conservation and climate adaptation projects, including land protection, led by local organizations, with the goal of increasing resilience to climate change for people and nature. Program grants will help local organizations with fee and easement acquisitions of lands that connect with important floodplains and shorelines that mitigate flooding and erosion. The grants will also provide funding for organizational capacity-building, planning and strategy development. We will prioritize projects that include engagement with and benefits to local communities, particularly in underserved and frontline communities. 

New York State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Planning
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

NYSDEC Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) WQIP funds implementation projects to improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source.

New York State
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Wetlands
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Source Water Buffer Program

The Source Water Buffer Program is administered by the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, in coordination with the Department. The goal of the program is to protect public drinking water and to enhance water quality of New York State’s watersheds, reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and streams. The Source Water Buffer Program funds the purchase of conservation easements and projects that establish riparian buffers on farmland that borders critical water sources.

New York State
Erosion
Land Use
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1 – May 20, 2025

$500

Long Island Garden Rewards Program

This program provides financial rewards for homeowners on Long Island who add green alternatives to their properties that reduce stormwater and nitrogen pollution entering Long Island Sound. Homeowners can be reimbursed for installing rain barrels, rain gardens, or native plantings on their properties. Application opened April 22nd, 2025 for this current season. Funds are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis.

Due to the high participation in the program, as of May 20, 2025 the Long Island Garden Rewards Program is closed. Thank you to all who participated. Check back for when applications open again!

New York State
Nature-based Solutions
Incentive Programs
Funding/Grants
Green Infrastructure

The New York Community Trust: New York City Ongoing Competitive Grants

The New York Community Trust, which brings together the New York Community Trust, The Long Island Community Foundation, and Westchester Community Foundation offers competitive grants to nonprofits to support projects in a number of areas across New York City, Westchester, Long Island and beyond. For work in New York City, proposals are accepted from nonprofits anytime through the ongoing competitive grants proposal process.

New York State
Habitat
Land Use
Environmental Health Hazards
Water Quality
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jan 31 – Apr 4, 2025

$2,000-$15,000

Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District – Part C Funding

Part C funding provides direct financial and staff support to conservation projects throughout Nassau County. Projects must meet one or more of the follow criteria in Nassau County:

  1. Conserve or improve soils
  2. Improve water quality of our groundwater and/or surface water
  3. Control and prevent soil erosion and/or prevent floodwater and sediment damages
  4. Conservation, development, utilization, and disposal of water
  5. Preserve, increase, or improve natural resources including trees and plants
  6. Control or eliminate invasive plants or wildlife
  7. Control and abate NPS water pollution
  8. Preserve wildlife

New York State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Funding/Grants
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Max award of $50-75K

Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Mapping Grant (NPG)

The Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and MS4 Mapping Grant (NPG) is a competitive, reimbursement grant program that funds planning reports for nonpoint source water quality improvement projects and mapping of Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s). The program aims to prepare nonpoint source projects for implementation funding, and to encourage and support cooperation among regulated MS4s to complete mapping of their stormwater system.

New York State
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

$50K-$2M for implementation grants, $10K-200K for certification grants

NYS Climate Smart Communities

The Climate Smart Communities (CSC) Grant program was established in 2016 to provide grants to cities, towns, villages, and counties of the State of New York for eligible climate change mitigation, adaptation, and planning and assessment projects. Funds are available for two broad project categories – implementation and certification. The first project category supports implementation projects related to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (mainly outside the power sector), climate change adaptation, and engineering feasibility studies for flood mitigation and Hydrofluorocarbons. The second supports planning and assessment projects aligned with Climate Smart Communities certification actions.

New York State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Incentive Programs
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Policies & Regulations
Wetlands
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

$50K-$2M

NYSDOS Local Waterfront Revitalization Program

The NYS Department of State (NYSDOS) is soliciting applications from eligible villages, towns, cities located along New York’s coasts or designated inland waterways, counties, or regional planning councils to advance the preparation or implementation of strategies for community and waterfront revitalization through the following grant categories: Preparing or Updating a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP), including Updating an LWRP to be More Resilient to Climate Risks; Preparing an LWRP Component, including a Watershed Management Plan; Implementing an LWRP or a completed LWRP Component.

New York State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Economic Impacts
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Recreation & Access
Extreme Weather & Storms
Policies & Regulations
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1 – Jul 28, 2023

Up to $3M

Green Innovation Grant Program (GIGP)

The Green Innovation Grant Program (GIGP) supports projects across New York State that utilize unique EPA-designated green stormwater infrastructure design and create cutting-edge green technologies. Competitive grants are awarded annually to projects that improve water quality and mitigate the effects of climate change through the implementation of one or more of the following green practices: Green Stormwater Infrastructure, Energy Efficiency, Water Efficiency and Environmental Innovation.

New York State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 1 – May 30, 2025

N/A

NYS Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)

The NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) Clean Water State Revolving Fund provides interest-free or low-interest rate financing for wastewater and sewer infrastructure projects to municipalities throughout New York State. A variety of projects are eligible for financing, including construction or restoration of sewers and wastewater treatment facilities, stormwater management, landfill closures, as well as habitat restoration and protection projects. There are several different types of financing available to clean water project applicants. EFC provides both short and long-term financing, interest-free or low interest to accommodate municipalities of all population sizes with varying financial needs. When communities repay their financings, it allows EFC to finance new projects and the funds “revolve” over time.

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) is preparing its Intended Use Plan for Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2026, which begins October 1, 2025. Municipalities are invited to list new projects. The project listing and an approvable engineering report consistent with the Engineering Report Outline (effective 10/1/2024) must be submitted no later than May 30, 2025, to be included on the Annual List and eligible for financing in FFY 2026. EFC provides low-cost financial assistance for water quality projects in New York State. If you have questions, email EFC at plus@efc.ny.gov or call Alex Brunelle, Program Coordinator, at (518) 402-6924.

New York State
Habitat
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: May 5 – Jun 27, 2025

$50,000-$250,000

Suffolk County Water Quality Protection and Restoration Program and Land Stewardship Initiative (WQPRP)

The Suffolk County Water Quality Improvement Division works to protect and improve Suffolk County’s ground and surface waters. The WQPRP provides funding to protect and restore surface and groundwater resources throughout the County. Funding is available for both planning/ engineering and construction expenses.

New York State
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jan 1 – Apr 15, 2023

~$1,500

EPOC 2022 Environmental Grant Program

The EPOC Grant Program provides non-profit and not-for-profit environmental advocacy groups, community based groups and environmental education organizations funding for local projects that benefit the environment.

Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Aquatic Resources
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Nov 20 – Jan 17, 2025

varies by grant type

CT DEEP Clean Water Fund Priority List

Through the Clean Water Fund, CT DEEP is able to provide grants and low-interest loans for infrastructure projects to meet clean water needs such as addressing combined sewer overflows, nutrient pollution, wastewater collection infrastructure needs, and projects using green infrastructure and addressing resiliency. See the Priority List Memo and Project Request Form for updates.

Connecticut State
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Jul 8 – Nov 1, 2024

$40,000

Healthy Communities Grant Program for New England

The Healthy Communities Grant Program is EPA New England’s main competitive grant program to work directly with communities to reduce environmental risks to protect and improve human health and the quality of life. he Healthy Communities Grant Program will achieve this through identifying and funding projects that:
– Target resources to benefit communities at risk.
– Assess, understand, and reduce environmental and human health risks.
– Increase collaboration through partnerships and community-based projects.
– Build institutional and community capacity to understand and solve environmental and human health problems.
– Achieve measurable environmental and human health benefits.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Environmental Health Hazards
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Community Engagement
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Mar 20 – Sep 17, 2024

$1,000 - $4,000

Grow Grants Program

Awards small grants in support of grassroots efforts and community-based environmental work in New England. The Grassroots Fund utilizes participatory grantmaking to move resources to New England grassroots groups working at the intersections of Environmental Justice. The program is geared toward groups who have some experience implementing a project in their community. Grants support groups to deepen their work by further developing a community vision, lowering barriers to participation, identifying new stakeholders, and working to bring more voices and lived experiences into core decision-making processes.

Connecticut State
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure
Marine Debris
Waste Management
Wetlands
Community Engagement
Policies & Regulations
Extreme Weather & Storms
Recreation & Access
Planning
Incentive Programs
Erosion
Water Quality
Stormwater Management
Economic Impacts
Aquatic Resources
Sea Level Rise
Environmental Health Hazards
Nature-based Solutions
Land Use
Habitat
Flooding

typically $150,000-350,000

DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants

Grants are awarded for projects that address Nonpoint Source impacts in surface waters including creation and implementation of approved Watershed Based Plans.

Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Environmental Health Hazards
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Extreme Weather & Storms
Wetlands
Waste Management
Green Infrastructure

$2,500-$65,000

Urban and Community Forestry Planning Grant

The Urban and Community Forestry Planning Grant Program offers funding to support projects that will help municipalities and nonprofit organizations collect baseline data that can be used to inform future management decisions. 

Connecticut State
Habitat
Land Use
Planning
Recreation & Access
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Dec 4 – Jan 30, 2025

$15,000-$200,000

Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund

The Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund (LISSF) is a competitive grant program seeking proposals to restore and protect the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. LISSF is interested in empowering communities of all kinds (including communities typically underrepresented in environmental programs and projects) to access, improve, and benefit from Long Island Sound, its waterways, and surrounding lands. Up to $400,000 is expected to be available for grants in 2025. The most competitive proposals will incorporate multiple values including sustainability, resilience, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Aquatic Resources
Water Quality
Planning
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Dec 6 – Apr 16, 2025

typically $4M-6M

NOAA Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Grants

NOAA is seeking proposals for transformational projects that will restore coastal habitat and strengthen community resilience under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

This funding will prioritize habitat restoration actions that rebuild productive and sustainable fisheries, contribute to the recovery and conservation of threatened and endangered species, use natural infrastructure to reduce damage from flooding and storms, promote resilient ecosystems and communities, and yield socioeconomic benefits. This funding opportunity will invest in projects that have the greatest potential to provide holistic benefits, through habitat-based approaches that strengthen both ecosystem and community resilience.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Aquatic Resources
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Green Infrastructure

Funding

: Mar 27 – May 29, 2025

$50K - $1.5M

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Long Island Sound Futures Fund

The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF) is seeking proposals to restore the health and living resources of Long Island Sound (Sound). The program is managed by National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Long Island Sound Study (LISS). Major funding is from EPA through the LISS with additional funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Zoetis Foundation.

This grant program supports efforts to test innovative approaches to conservation, deliver transformative projects, and support people and communities who value the sound and take a direct role in its future. Projects should advance implementation of the Long Island Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan 2020-2024 Update (CCMP). The Futures Fund invests in projects under three CCMP themes: 1) Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds; 2) Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife; 3) Sustainable and Resilient Communities

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Aquatic Resources
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Recreation & Access
Community Engagement
Wetlands
Waste Management
Marine Debris
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Huntington, NY

Crab Meadow Watershed Hydrology Study and Stewardship Plan

This comprehensive study and plan, funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Long Island Sound Futures Fund, identifies initial strategies to maintain and enhance the local watershed resources of Crab Meadow. It is meant to be a land management tool to guide the implementation of best practices. The plan was developed in consultation with many partners and stakeholders. There is now significant community buy-in to take action to protect and restore this important watershed. 

 

Following adoption of the plan, the Town of Huntington began working with US Fish and Wildlife Service and Audubon to study and restore Crab Meadow marsh and implement recommendations from the Stewardship Plan. Audubon, in partnership with Town of Huntington and USFWS, received a 2024 Long Island Sound Futures Fund Grant ($429K) to develop design plans for marsh restoration at Crab Meadow.

New York State
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Aquatic Resources
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Recreation & Access
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Sea Cliff, NY

Scudders Pond Subwatershed Improvements

The Hempstead Harbor Protection Committee and Village of Sea Cliff completed subwatershed improvements at Scudders Pond to address stormwater drainage problems impacting the water quality of the pond and Hempstead Harbor, highlighted as a priority in the 1998 Hempstead Harbor Water Quality Improvement Plan. The improvements included dredging the pond, installing a hydrodynamic separator to intercept sediment, removing invasive Phragmites australis and replacing with native plants, realigning the stream to reduce erosion, redirecting the stormwater from residences to the bioswale, creation of a biofilter wetland area, replacement of the weir between the upper and lower ponds and weir at Shore Road.

New York State
Erosion
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Aquatic Resources
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Planning
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Rain Gardens on Western Waterfront

Friends of the Bay installed two raingardens at the Western Waterfront, which was done in October 2021 with the help of volunteers.

New York State
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

Norwalk, CT

Webster Street Parking Lot Green Infrastructure Project

In 2019, the City of Norwalk secured a LIS Future Fund grant to install green infrastructure in the Webster Street Parking to reduce the impacts of stormwater on the Norwalk River and Harbor and mitigate local flooding of surrounding businesses through the installation of four different types of infiltration and bio-retention structures:
1) Underground infiltration systems.
2) Retention basins and curb inlet planters in eight different areas.
3) Porous pavement with storage in two areas.
4) Infiltration gutters and tree filters in two other areas.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Stormwater Management
Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure

Case Study

New Haven, CT

New Haven Bioswales

The City of New Haven has installed 286 right-of-way bioswales throughout the city as part of a multifaceted approach to reducing flooding in the downtown area. Right-of-way bioswales are engineered planted areas that are located on sidewalks. They are designed to capture and infiltrate stormwater into the ground that would otherwise directly enter a storm drain. These bioswales were installed as the result of various partnerships and funding opportunities related to flood prevention, localized drainage solutions, combined sewer overflow mitigation, research, and traffic calming projects.

Project Lead

City of New Haven, Dept of Engineering

Project Partners

Urban Resources Initiative, EMERGE Inc., Save the Sound, Yale School of the Environment, and Quinnipiac University, among others.

Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Green Infrastructure

Website

Level of Effort:

CLEAR: Rain Garden App

A website and a downloadable app for your mobile device. The resource has information about rain gardens, designing, selecting plants, and installing a garden on your property.

New York State
Connecticut State
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

Promoting Nature-Based Hazard Mitigation Through FEMA Mitigation Grants

This guidance document is intended for stakeholders pursuing FEMA HMA grants for nature-based solutions to mitigate risks associated with flooding (riverine and coastal) and wildfire.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

NYSDEC/NYSDOS Model Local Laws to Increase Resilience

The New York State Department of State worked with the Department of Environmental Conservation and other partners to create model local laws to help local governments be more resilient to sea-level rise, storm surge, and flooding. Cities, towns, and villages are invited to adapt model local laws to meet the resilience needs of the community with the assistance of their municipal attorneys.

New York State
Flooding
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Extreme Weather & Storms
Policies & Regulations
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

EPA Green Infrastructure

Includes information about preparing for, and implementing green infrastructure with helpful links to other fact sheets and resources.

New York State
Connecticut State
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Planning
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

FEMA BUILDING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE WITH NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS: A Guide for Local Communities

The primary goal of this guide is to help communities identify and engage the staff and resources that can be used to implement nature-based solutions to build resilience to natural hazards, which may be exacerbated by climate change.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Green Infrastructure

Incentive Program

Long Island Garden Rewards Program

The Long Island Garden Rewards Program offers reimbursement of up to $500 total for making your yard more water friendly. Homeowners can be reimbursed for installing rain barrels, rain gardens, or native plantings on their properties. These actions reduce the amount of nitrogen pollution entering local waterways and helps conserve water. Funds are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis.

Due to the high participation in the program, as of May 20, 2025 the Long Island Garden Rewards Program is closed. Thank you to all who participated. Check back for when applications open again!

New York State
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Incentive Programs
Funding/Grants
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

FEMA BUILDING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE WITH NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS: Strategies for Success

This guide gives community leaders five main strategies to carry out Nature-Based Solution projects: 1) Building Strong Partnerships, 2) Engaging the Whole Community, 3) Matching Project Size With Desired Goals and Benefits, 4) Maximizing Benefits, and 5) Designing for the Future. This is not a technical guide for planning, constructing or funding NBS. It covers the value of each strategy and suggests how to move forward with NBS projects.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Stormwater Management
Extreme Weather & Storms
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

Adapt CT (CTSG & CLEAR) – Native Plants for Riparian Corridors in Connecticut

A guide listing the trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, reeds and herbaceous plants best for the banks of rivers, streams or other bodies of water (a companion to: A Planting Guide for Riparian Sites Along the Connecticut Coast)

Connecticut State
Erosion
Habitat
Nature-based Solutions
Green Infrastructure

Guidance Tool

Level of Effort:

Adapt CT (CTSG & CLEAR) – A Planting Guide for Riparian Sites Along the Connecticut Coast

lists native trees, shrubs, ferns, grasses, sedges, reeds and herbaceous plants suitable for planting along the banks of a river, stream or other body of water.

Connecticut State
Nature-based Solutions
Green Infrastructure

Training

SRC Annual Bi-State Workshop 2023

The second annual Long Island Sound Bi-State Sustainable and Resilient Communities Workshop brought together nearly 200 people virtually on Dec. 7, 2023 to learn about a new Long Island Sound Resilience Resource Hub (launching in early 2024), hear from communities and groups around the Sound working on resilience planning, and consider pathways for updating codes and ordinances. Videos of the workshop’s six sessions are available on YouTube. They can be accessed below along with supporting documents.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Sea Level Rise
Economic Impacts
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Incentive Programs
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Community Engagement
Green Infrastructure
Long Island Sound Study logo Connecticut Sea Grant logo Sea Grant NY

Training

SRC Annual Bi-State Workshop 2022

The first annual Long Island Sound Bi-State Sustainable and Resilient Communities Workshop brought together more than 260 people virtually on Dec. 1, 2022 to learn about opportunities to increase the resilience of the Sound’s communities to climate change and other environmental threats. Interactive sessions included opportunities to learn more about the SRC Extension Professionals’ needs assessment findings and recommendations, the newly released Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program, and tips for success with Long Island Sound funding opportunities. Concurrent breakout sessions highlighted the work of partners related to shoreline planning and implementation, using green infrastructure for stormwater management, sustainable climate planning for relocation, and new sustainability/resilience tools available in both New York and Connecticut. Videos of the workshop’s six sessions are available on YouTube. They can be accessed below along with supporting documents.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Habitat
Land Use
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Water Quality
Infrastructure
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Policies & Regulations
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure
Long Island Sound Study logo Connecticut Sea Grant logo Sea Grant NY

Training

Steps to Resilience

This online information session held Sept. 19, and repeated Sept. 21, provides an introduction to resilience planning in the Long Island Sound region. It includes discussions on local climate impacts and projections, resilience planning strategies, and climate certification programs for both New York and Connecticut municipalities. In addition to the main presentation, videos of the Connecticut and New York breakout sessions can be accessed below. The presentations and other resource materials are available here.

New York State
Connecticut State
Erosion
Flooding
Nature-based Solutions
Sea Level Rise
Stormwater Management
Incentive Programs
Extreme Weather & Storms
Funding/Grants
Wetlands
Green Infrastructure
Long Island Sound Study logo Sea Grant NY Connecticut Sea Grant logo The Sustainability Institute Sustainable CT Cameron Engineering

Resilience Steps

Connect

LISP
EPA Sea Grant New York Sea Grant Connecticut