Resources for
Land Use
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
Climate Action Tool
The 2025 expansion of the Climate Action Tool (CAT) allows you to:
1) Access information on climate impacts and vulnerability of species and habitats; and
2) Explore adaptation strategies and actions, related to connectivity, conservation planning, and forestry, among other relevant areas.
This tool was developed by the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center and the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass) Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment.
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
Climate Action Tool
The 2025 expansion of the Climate Action Tool (CAT) allows you to:
1) Access information on climate impacts and vulnerability of species and habitats; and
2) Explore adaptation strategies and actions, related to connectivity, conservation planning, and forestry, among other relevant areas.
This tool was developed by the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center and the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass) Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment.
Funding
: Jun 15, 2026
max $30,000
Urban Forest Resilience Grant Program
Healthy urban forests are essential to Connecticut’s communities. They improve air and water quality, reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and provide economic, recreational, and public health benefits. However, many urban forests are facing significant stress from invasive pests and diseases, including beech leaf disease, spongy moth, and emerald ash borer. This can result in declining, hazardous, or dead trees that create safety risks and pose barriers to replanting. With support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, CT DEEP’s Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program is offering funding to help municipalities restore their urban and community forests.
Eligible activities include: 1) Removal of dead, hazardous, or declining trees; 2) Stump removal and site preparation; 3) Tree planting to meet the required 1:2 replacement ratio. Projects must demonstrate how removals will restore forest health and contribute to long-term, measurable canopy gains in low-canopy communities.
Funding
: Jun 15, 2026
max $30,000
Urban Forest Resilience Grant Program
Healthy urban forests are essential to Connecticut’s communities. They improve air and water quality, reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and provide economic, recreational, and public health benefits. However, many urban forests are facing significant stress from invasive pests and diseases, including beech leaf disease, spongy moth, and emerald ash borer. This can result in declining, hazardous, or dead trees that create safety risks and pose barriers to replanting. With support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, CT DEEP’s Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program is offering funding to help municipalities restore their urban and community forests.
Funding
: Mar 26 – Jun 26, 2026
NYSDOS Community Resilience & Flood Risk Reduction Grants
$40 million is available through the NYS Department of State (DOS) in two categories — $20 million for Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience, which includes projects that will strengthen climate resiliency within, and draining into, the New York State Coastal Area and the Coastal Nonpoint Source Boundary; and $20 million for Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Implementation, which includes climate resiliency projects for eligible communities that have participated in the DOS Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP). Grants are available for final design and construction, or construction-only. Projects should prioritize nature-based and natural solutions where feasible and co-benefits. Applicants are encouraged to submit projects that address and utilize the NYSDOS Resilience Principles in their development. The minimum grant request is $300,000 per Coastal Rehabilitation and Restoration Projects grant application and $150,000 per Inland Flooding and LWRP Implementation Projects grant application.
Funding
: Mar 26 – Jun 26, 2026
NYSDOS Community Resilience & Flood Risk Reduction Grants
$40 million is available through the NYS Department of State (DOS) in two categories — $20 million for Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience, which includes projects that will strengthen climate resiliency within, and draining into, the New York State Coastal Area and the Coastal Nonpoint Source Boundary; and $20 million for Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Implementation, which includes climate resiliency projects for eligible communities that have participated in the DOS Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP). Grants are available for final design and construction, or construction-only. Projects should prioritize nature-based and natural solutions where feasible and co-benefits. Applicants are encouraged to submit projects that address and utilize the NYSDOS Resilience Principles in their development. The minimum grant request is $300,000 per Coastal Rehabilitation and Restoration Projects grant application and $150,000 per Inland Flooding and LWRP Implementation Projects grant application.
Story Map
Level of Effort:
Long Island Sound Lawn Fertilizer Outreach Targeting Tool
Nitrogen (N) from residential lawn fertilizer is one of the most challenging and persistent problems impacting the health of Long Island Sound (LIS). An interdisciplinary team of researchers from Clark University, the University of Connecticut, the University of Maryland, and the University of Miami collaborated on an effort to better target education and outreach campaigns to reduce the use of lawn fertilizer in areas of greatest impact.
This Story Map and the associated Lawn Fertilizer Outreach Targeting Tool can help identify areas of the watershed for which interventions to reduce lawn fertilizer may have greater impacts.
Story Map
Level of Effort:
Long Island Sound Lawn Fertilizer Outreach Targeting Tool
Nitrogen (N) from residential lawn fertilizer is one of the most challenging and persistent problems impacting the health of Long Island Sound (LIS). An interdisciplinary team of researchers from Clark University, the University of Connecticut, the University of Maryland, and the University of Miami collaborated on an effort to better target education and outreach campaigns to reduce the use of lawn fertilizer in areas of greatest impact.
This Story Map and the associated Lawn Fertilizer Outreach Targeting Tool can help identify areas of the watershed for which interventions to reduce lawn fertilizer may have greater impacts.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
$5K-$20K
SHPO Survey & Planning Grants
The Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) offers Survey and Planning Grants for a variety of historic preservation planning purposes. These grants are part of a state commitment to provide increased funding for open space, farmland preservation, historic preservation and affordable housing. SHPO is now accepting Survey and Planning
Grant applications for State Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30 2026). There will be $480,000 available and grant awards will range from $5,000-$20,000.
Eligible activities include: Historic Resources Inventories; Archaeological Surveys and Reports; Historic Designation Reports; Municipal Historic Preservation Planning Reports; Pre-Development Studies.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
$5K-$20K
SHPO Survey & Planning Grants
The Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) offers Survey and Planning Grants for a variety of historic preservation planning purposes. These grants are part of a state commitment to provide increased funding for open space, farmland preservation, historic preservation and affordable housing. SHPO is now accepting Survey and Planning
Grant applications for State Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30 2026). There will be $480,000 available and grant awards will range from $5,000-$20,000.
Funding
: Apr 8 – May 8, 2026
Over $2.3M available, divided by region
Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee Program Grant
Audubon Connecticut’s 2026 Request for Letters of Intent is now open. Local organizations including land trusts, universities, environmental nonprofits, and state agencies are invited to submit a short letter of intent for grant funding to protect and enhance wetlands. The Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee (ILF) Program has accrued funds that are now available for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut. The National Audubon Society, Inc., through its state office, Audubon Connecticut, is the “sponsor” of Connecticut’s ILF program. The program allows permittees to pay a fee in lieu of taking on mitigation themselves. Instead, local organizations like land trusts, and other environmental nonprofits, are given the opportunity to apply for and receive grant funding for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut.
Restoration and enhancement projects are strongly encouraged and will likely score and rank higher than preservation-only projects. For restoration and enhancement projects, consultation with qualified professionals is recommended. See the Request for Letters of Intent at the link for details.
Funding
: Apr 8 – May 8, 2026
Over $2.3M available, divided by region
Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee Program Grant
Audubon Connecticut’s 2026 Request for Letters of Intent is now open. Local organizations including land trusts, universities, environmental nonprofits, and state agencies are invited to submit a short letter of intent for grant funding to protect and enhance wetlands. The Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee (ILF) Program has accrued funds that are now available for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut. The National Audubon Society, Inc., through its state office, Audubon Connecticut, is the “sponsor” of Connecticut’s ILF program. The program allows permittees to pay a fee in lieu of taking on mitigation themselves. Instead, local organizations like land trusts, and other environmental nonprofits, are given the opportunity to apply for and receive grant funding for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut.
Funding
: Sep 1, 2026
up to $250,000
DEEP CERCLA 128(a) Brownfield Grant Program – Round 4
DEEP was awarded this funding from the EPA under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to administer to brownfield sites in Connecticut to perform environmental assessment and cleanup activities.
DEEP encourages applicants whose projects will enable the creation, preservation, or addition of park space, greenways or other recreational space, or other property used for nonprofit or municipal purposes, to apply for this pool of funding.
Funding
: Sep 1, 2026
up to $250,000
DEEP CERCLA 128(a) Brownfield Grant Program – Round 4
DEEP was awarded this funding from the EPA under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to administer to brownfield sites in Connecticut to perform environmental assessment and cleanup activities.
Funding
: Aug 1, 2026
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 24
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 24:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 22 notices is $25 million.
Eligible uses of funds include: Costs associated with the investigation, assessment, remediation and development of a brownfield, including but not limited to: soil, groundwater and infrastructure investigation; assessment; remediation; abatement; hazardous materials or waste disposal; long-term groundwater monitoring or monitoring for natural attenuation; other forms of institutional controls; attorneys’ fees (non-DECD contract related), planning, engineering and environmental consulting; building and structural issues (including demolition, asbestos abatement, PCB removal, contaminated wood or paint removal and other infrastructure remedial activities).
Funding
: Aug 1, 2026
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 24
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 24:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 22 notices is $25 million.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
min $50K
Forever Connecticut Fund
CLCC’s Forever Connecticut Fund is a conservation finance tool that provides land trusts with access to immediate, flexible capital to acquire natural and working lands, including fee simple and conservation easements. Beyond financial assistance, the Forever Connecticut Fund strengthens organizations through a new capacity-building program that includes one-on-one coaching from a development expert to help land trusts secure grants and donations, launch capital campaigns, and boost their overall fundraising capacity.
The Forever CT Fund is designed to help land trusts act quickly on conservation opportunities when traditional funding sources are not immediately available. Applications are accepted by invitation only. Email Yaw to discuss your project(s) and eligibility for funding.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
min $50K
Forever Connecticut Fund
CLCC’s Forever Connecticut Fund is a conservation finance tool that provides land trusts with access to immediate, flexible capital to acquire natural and working lands, including fee simple and conservation easements. Beyond financial assistance, the Forever Connecticut Fund strengthens organizations through a new capacity-building program that includes one-on-one coaching from a development expert to help land trusts secure grants and donations, launch capital campaigns, and boost their overall fundraising capacity.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
min $50K
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP)
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: May 16, 2026
min $50K
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP)
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: Dec 31 – Dec 31, 2027
Connecticut Conservation Partnership Program (CCPP)
Administered by the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC), CCPP has established a coordinated process by which land trust applicants to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program (OSWA) may apply for a federal grant as a source of match funds.
Easements can be held by USDA-NRCS (U.S. Held Easements) or an eligible entity (Entity Held Easements). Priorities are for conservation easements on nonindustrial private forest and watershed lands.
Funding
: Dec 31 – Dec 31, 2027
Connecticut Conservation Partnership Program (CCPP)
Administered by the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC), CCPP has established a coordinated process by which land trust applicants to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program (OSWA) may apply for a federal grant as a source of match funds.
Funding
: Mar 6 – Apr 6, 2026
typically $100K-$2M
FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending / Community Project Funding
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. In Connecticut, applications go through the offices of Senator Blumenthal and Senator Murphy. The project must meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the accounts listed.
Please note, you only need to submit one application for each project and it will be sent to both offices. Requests may be made for the following bills: 1) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; 2) Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; 3) Energy and Water Development; 4) Financial Services and General Government; 5) Homeland Security; 6) Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; 7) Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; 8) Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies; 9) Military Construction, Veteran Affairs, and Related Agencies.
Funding
: Mar 6 – Apr 6, 2026
typically $100K-$2M
FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending / Community Project Funding
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. In Connecticut, applications go through the offices of Senator Blumenthal and Senator Murphy. The project must meet the eligibility requirements for at least one of the accounts listed.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Resilient Land Mapping Tool
The Resilient Land Mapping Tool, developed by The Nature Conservancy’s Center for Resilient Conservation Science, is an interactive mapping tool that helps users explore climate resilient landscapes across the United States. The tool allows users to view and analyze data on terrestrial resilience, biodiversity, connectivity, and other conservation indicators to support land protection and planning decisions. Users can explore different map layers, analyze specific areas, and download datasets for conservation research and planning. This tool is designed to support conservation efforts that protect biodiversity and maintain ecological functions in a changing climate.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Resilient Land Mapping Tool
The Resilient Land Mapping Tool, developed by The Nature Conservancy’s Center for Resilient Conservation Science, is an interactive mapping tool that helps users explore climate resilient landscapes across the United States. The tool allows users to view and analyze data on terrestrial resilience, biodiversity, connectivity, and other conservation indicators to support land protection and planning decisions. Users can explore different map layers, analyze specific areas, and download datasets for conservation research and planning. This tool is designed to support conservation efforts that protect biodiversity and maintain ecological functions in a changing climate.
Events
2026 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference
The 2026 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference brings together land conservation advocates, municipal leaders, and environmental organizations for a full day of training, networking, and knowledge sharing. Participants will explore strategies and partnerships that support land conservation efforts across Connecticut. The conference provides opportunities to learn from experts, attend workshops, and connect with others working to protect natural landscapes. It is a space for sharing ideas and building collaborations that strengthen conservation work across the state.
A waitlist is available at the conference website:
Events
2026 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference
The 2026 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference brings together land conservation advocates, municipal leaders, and environmental organizations for a full day of training, networking, and knowledge sharing. Participants will explore strategies and partnerships that support land conservation efforts across Connecticut. The conference provides opportunities to learn from experts, attend workshops, and connect with others working to protect natural landscapes. It is a space for sharing ideas and building collaborations that strengthen conservation work across the state.
A waitlist is available at the conference website:
Funding
: May 16 – Apr 30, 2026
max $100K
Climate-Smart Forest Stewardship Grant Program
CLCC’s Climate-Smart Forest Stewardship Grant Program is a new initiative that enables land trusts to take care of their forests. To help land trusts face these challenges, CLCC will provide funding for land trusts that integrate climate mitigation, resilience, and adaptation strategies into their long-term forest stewardship.
Projects must take place in a USFS-defined rural area. Applicants must be current members of CLCC. Interested applicants must have an initial conversation with CLCC to discuss project eligibility. Site visits are strongly encouraged prior to submitting an application.
Funding
: May 16 – Apr 30, 2026
max $100K
Climate-Smart Forest Stewardship Grant Program
CLCC’s Climate-Smart Forest Stewardship Grant Program is a new initiative that enables land trusts to take care of their forests. To help land trusts face these challenges, CLCC will provide funding for land trusts that integrate climate mitigation, resilience, and adaptation strategies into their long-term forest stewardship.
SRC Events
3rd Annual SRC Regional Funding Workshop: Connecticut

Please join the Long Island Sound Partnership and the CT Sea Grant Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team at the 3rd Annual SRC Funding Workshop for Connecticut! The event is free and lunch will be provided.
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm (lunch will be provided)
Location: Gateway Community College – Curran Community Room (N100), 20 Church St, New Haven, CT 06510
Registration will be required by March 26th
Attendees will hear from program officers representing various local, state, and regional funding organizations and be able to engage in discussions with funders to explore project ideas and ways to improve funding applications. Attendees will also hear from a panel of successful awardees about their experiences and strategies. The workshop is intended for municipal officials and staff, nonprofits, community organizations, and other interested groups in the Long Island Sound region.
Draft Agenda:
- Lightning Talk Presentations from Funders – local, state, federal, and Long Island Sound-focused funding opportunities
- Lunch (provided)
- Successful Awardees Panel – Hear from communities that have been successful in applying to these grant opportunities
- Roundtable Discussions – Participants encouraged to interact with funders and panelists
Featured Funding Opportunities:
- Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
- Congressionally Directed Spending
- CT Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Team (CTBILT) & CT Fed Funds Team
- CT DECD Community Investment Fund
- CT DECD Office of Brownfield Remediation & Development
- CT DEEP CERCLA 128(a) Brownfield Grant Program
- CT DEEP Climate Resilience Fund
- CT DEEP Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program
- CT DEEP Recreational Trails
- CT DEEP Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants
- CT DEEP Urban Green & Community Gardens Grant Program
- CT Federal Funding Planning Team
- CT Land Conservation Council
- Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund
- Long Island Sound Futures Fund
- Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund
- New England Environmental Finance Center
- UConn Technical Assistance to Brownfields (TAB)
Email lisresilience@gmail.com with questions.
SRC Events
3rd Annual SRC Regional Funding Workshop: Connecticut

Please join the Long Island Sound Partnership and the CT Sea Grant Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team at the 3rd Annual SRC Funding Workshop for Connecticut! The event is free and lunch will be provided.
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm (lunch will be provided)
Location: Gateway Community College – Curran Community Room (N100), 20 Church St, New Haven, CT 06510
Registration will be required by March 26th
Attendees will hear from program officers representing various local, state, and regional funding organizations and be able to engage in discussions with funders to explore project ideas and ways to improve funding applications. Attendees will also hear from a panel of successful awardees about their experiences and strategies. The workshop is intended for municipal officials and staff, nonprofits, community organizations, and other interested groups in the Long Island Sound region.
Draft Agenda:
- Lightning Talk Presentations from Funders – local, state, federal, and Long Island Sound-focused funding opportunities
- Lunch (provided)
- Successful Awardees Panel – Hear from communities that have been successful in applying to these grant opportunities
- Roundtable Discussions – Participants encouraged to interact with funders and panelists
Featured Funding Opportunities:
- Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
- Congressionally Directed Spending
- CT Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Team (CTBILT) & CT Fed Funds Team
- CT DECD Community Investment Fund
- CT DECD Office of Brownfield Remediation & Development
- CT DEEP CERCLA 128(a) Brownfield Grant Program
- CT DEEP Climate Resilience Fund
- CT DEEP Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program
- CT DEEP Recreational Trails
- CT DEEP Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants
- CT DEEP Urban Green & Community Gardens Grant Program
- CT Federal Funding Planning Team
- CT Land Conservation Council
- Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund
- Long Island Sound Futures Fund
- Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund
- New England Environmental Finance Center
- UConn Technical Assistance to Brownfields (TAB)
Email lisresilience@gmail.com with questions.
Funding
: Feb 20 – Mar 31, 2026
$100,000 - $7M
National Coastal Resilience Fund 2026
The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) is a national focused on reducing risks to coastal communities. The NCRF is now soliciting pre-proposals for coastal resilience projects that restore, increase, and strengthen natural infrastructure such as coastal marshes and wetlands, dune and beach systems, oyster and coral reefs, rivers and floodplains, coastal forest, and barrier islands that mitigate the impacts of storms and other coastal hazards to communities.
The National Coastal Resilience Fund invests in projects under four project categories: 1) Community Capacity Building and Planning, 2) Site Assessment and Preliminary Design, 3) Final Design and Permitting, 4) Restoration Implementation. Informational webinars are available to provide an overview of the NCRF funding opportunity on 2/24, 2/25, and 2/26.
Funding
: Feb 20 – Mar 31, 2026
$100,000 - $7M
National Coastal Resilience Fund 2026
The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) is a national focused on reducing risks to coastal communities. The NCRF is now soliciting pre-proposals for coastal resilience projects that restore, increase, and strengthen natural infrastructure such as coastal marshes and wetlands, dune and beach systems, oyster and coral reefs, rivers and floodplains, coastal forest, and barrier islands that mitigate the impacts of storms and other coastal hazards to communities.
Funding
: Feb 3 – Mar 26, 2026
typically $150,000-350,000
DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is now accepting proposals for fiscal year 2025 Clean Water Section 319 grants. Section 319 of the Federal Clean Water Act (Section 319) is a Federal program to control nonpoint sources (NPS) of water pollution. Connecticut receives funds from EPA for Section 319 grants that can be passed onto communities, local conservation groups, and other organizations for NPS implementation projects, plans, and statewide NPS management efforts.
Priority projects for FY26 include: Watershed Based Plan Implementation Projects, Watershed Based Plan (WBP) Development, Natural Hazards, and Advancing the Connecticut NPS Management Program Plan.
Funding
: Feb 3 – Mar 26, 2026
typically $150,000-350,000
DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is now accepting proposals for fiscal year 2025 Clean Water Section 319 grants. Section 319 of the Federal Clean Water Act (Section 319) is a Federal program to control nonpoint sources (NPS) of water pollution. Connecticut receives funds from EPA for Section 319 grants that can be passed onto communities, local conservation groups, and other organizations for NPS implementation projects, plans, and statewide NPS management efforts.
Funding
: Feb 6 – Mar 17, 2026
$1,000 - $4,000
Grow Grants Program
The New England Grassroots Environment Fund awards small grants in support of grassroots efforts and community-based environmental work in New England. The GROW GRANTS program is actively accepting applications from grassroots groups across New England. These grants fund small, volunteer-driven groups in New England working on issues including food access, immigrant support, climate resilience, youth work, mutual aid, and more. This program is geared toward groups with experience organizing in their community and have at least THREE leaders who are actively involved in group decision-making. 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.
Grow grants prioritize support for community groups who represent a broad range of voices in their community and who are not being reached by other funders. The Grassroots Fund interprets the word 'environment' broadly and provides funding for a wide range of activities.
Funding
: Feb 6 – Mar 17, 2026
$1,000 - $4,000
Grow Grants Program
The New England Grassroots Environment Fund awards small grants in support of grassroots efforts and community-based environmental work in New England. The GROW GRANTS program is actively accepting applications from grassroots groups across New England. These grants fund small, volunteer-driven groups in New England working on issues including food access, immigrant support, climate resilience, youth work, mutual aid, and more. This program is geared toward groups with experience organizing in their community and have at least THREE leaders who are actively involved in group decision-making. 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.
SRC Events
3rd Annual SRC Regional Funding Workshop: Long Island
Please join the Long Island Sound Partnership and NY Sea Grant Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team at the 3rd Annual Long Island Funding Workshop! The event is free and lunch will be provided.
Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM (lunch will be provided)
Location: Hyatt Regency Long Island (1717 Motor Parkway Hauppauge, NY)
Registration is required
Attendees will hear from program officers representing various local, state, and Long Island Sound funding organizations and be able to engage in discussions with funders to explore project ideas and ways to improve funding applications. Attendees will also hear from a panel of successful awardees about their experiences and strategies. The workshop is intended for municipal officials and staff, nonprofits, community organizations, and other interested parties.
View the Draft Agenda for the list of featured funding opportunities!
Email lisresilience@gmail.com with questions.
SRC Events
3rd Annual SRC Regional Funding Workshop: Long Island
Please join the Long Island Sound Partnership and NY Sea Grant Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team at the 3rd Annual Long Island Funding Workshop! The event is free and lunch will be provided.
Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM (lunch will be provided)
Location: Hyatt Regency Long Island (1717 Motor Parkway Hauppauge, NY)
Registration is required
Attendees will hear from program officers representing various local, state, and Long Island Sound funding organizations and be able to engage in discussions with funders to explore project ideas and ways to improve funding applications. Attendees will also hear from a panel of successful awardees about their experiences and strategies. The workshop is intended for municipal officials and staff, nonprofits, community organizations, and other interested parties.
View the Draft Agenda for the list of featured funding opportunities!
Email lisresilience@gmail.com with questions.
Funding
: Jan 23 – Mar 25, 2026
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 23
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices of the Brownfields Program. The following programs are included:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding available across all Round 23 programs is $25 million.
Eligible uses of funds include: Costs associated with the investigation, assessment, remediation and development of a brownfield, including but not limited to: soil, groundwater and infrastructure investigation; assessment; remediation; abatement; hazardous materials or waste disposal; long-term groundwater monitoring or monitoring for natural attenuation; other forms of institutional controls; attorneys’ fees (non-DECD contract related), planning, engineering and environmental consulting; building and structural issues (including demolition, asbestos abatement, PCB removal, contaminated wood or paint removal and other infrastructure remedial activities). Public-Private Partnership: DECD hopes to encourage public-private partnerships with this NOFA offering.
Funding
: Jan 23 – Mar 25, 2026
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 23
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices of the Brownfields Program. The following programs are included:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding available across all Round 23 programs is $25 million.
Events
LISCIF’s Annual Region-Wide Learning Exchange
The 3rd Annual Learning Exchange hosted by the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF) is a collaborative, in person event designed to bring together current and past grant recipients, partners, and community stakeholders working to improve the Long Island Sound region. The event focuses on knowledge sharing, peer learning, and strengthening connections among organizations engaged in environmental justice, climate resilience, and community based solutions. Through facilitated discussions and interactive sessions, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their work, exchange best practices, and explore shared challenges and successes.
This free event is intended specifically for LISCIF grantees and invited partners and emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, with accommodations available upon request. By fostering dialogue and collaboration across diverse organizations, the Learning Exchange aims to build capacity, encourage cross sector partnerships, and support long term, community driven impact throughout the Long Island Sound watershed.
Events
LISCIF’s Annual Region-Wide Learning Exchange
The 3rd Annual Learning Exchange hosted by the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund (LISCIF) is a collaborative, in person event designed to bring together current and past grant recipients, partners, and community stakeholders working to improve the Long Island Sound region. The event focuses on knowledge sharing, peer learning, and strengthening connections among organizations engaged in environmental justice, climate resilience, and community based solutions. Through facilitated discussions and interactive sessions, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their work, exchange best practices, and explore shared challenges and successes.
This free event is intended specifically for LISCIF grantees and invited partners and emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, with accommodations available upon request. By fostering dialogue and collaboration across diverse organizations, the Learning Exchange aims to build capacity, encourage cross sector partnerships, and support long term, community driven impact throughout the Long Island Sound watershed.
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
Forest Adaptation Workbook
Created by the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science, the Adaptation Workbook provides a structured, five step process designed to help natural resource professionals and landowners translate broad climate trends into specific, actionable management plans. By moving from defining project goals to monitoring long term results, the workbook helps users assess local vulnerabilities and identify custom adaptation tactics. This flexible framework is applicable across diverse landscapes including forests, urban areas, and agricultural lands ensuring that climate data becomes a practical tool for protecting ecosystems rather than just a collection of abstract projections.
This resource page also offers a variety of supporting materials including: the full Forest Adaptation Resources guide, “Quick Guide” versions for rapid assessment, and a library of real-world demonstration projects that showcase successful adaptation in practice.
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
Forest Adaptation Workbook
Created by the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science, the Adaptation Workbook provides a structured, five step process designed to help natural resource professionals and landowners translate broad climate trends into specific, actionable management plans. By moving from defining project goals to monitoring long term results, the workbook helps users assess local vulnerabilities and identify custom adaptation tactics. This flexible framework is applicable across diverse landscapes including forests, urban areas, and agricultural lands ensuring that climate data becomes a practical tool for protecting ecosystems rather than just a collection of abstract projections.
This resource page also offers a variety of supporting materials including: the full Forest Adaptation Resources guide, “Quick Guide” versions for rapid assessment, and a library of real-world demonstration projects that showcase successful adaptation in practice.
Funding
: May 16 – Apr 15, 2026
Open Space Conservation Grant Program
This is a new grant program through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act for land conservation partners to protect and preserve open space in New York State. Up to $25 million is available through the first round of the program and no match is required. Municipalities, not-for-profits, and Indian Nations or Tribes can apply for grants of $50,000 to a maximum of $3,500,000 to purchase land for permanent conservation. Acquired properties must align with the New York State Open Space Conservation Plan and possess at least one of the seven resources identified as priorities in the Bond Act which include: projects that possess ecological, habitat, recreational or scenic values; protect the quality of a drinking water supply; provide flood control or flood mitigation values; constitute a floodplain; provide or have the potential to provide important habitat connectivity; provide open space for the use and enjoyment of the public; or provide community gardens in urban areas. All funded projects are encouraged to allow, create, or enhance public access.
Funding
: May 16 – Apr 15, 2026
Open Space Conservation Grant Program
This is a new grant program through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act for land conservation partners to protect and preserve open space in New York State. Up to $25 million is available through the first round of the program and no match is required. Municipalities, not-for-profits, and Indian Nations or Tribes can apply for grants of $50,000 to a maximum of $3,500,000 to purchase land for permanent conservation. Acquired properties must align with the New York State Open Space Conservation Plan and possess at least one of the seven resources identified as priorities in the Bond Act which include: projects that possess ecological, habitat, recreational or scenic values; protect the quality of a drinking water supply; provide flood control or flood mitigation values; constitute a floodplain; provide or have the potential to provide important habitat connectivity; provide open space for the use and enjoyment of the public; or provide community gardens in urban areas. All funded projects are encouraged to allow, create, or enhance public access.
Funding
: Nov 26 – Feb 24, 2026
up to $25M
Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program
The U.S. DOT’s BUILD grant program provides grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. The eligibility requirements of BUILD 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. Projects can be for planning or construction and are evaluated by their ability to address: safety; environmental sustainability; quality of life; mobility and community connectivity; economic competitiveness and opportunity including tourism; state of good repair; partnership and collaboration; and innovation.
The BUILD program was previously known as the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) discretionary grants.
Eligible Capital Project activities include: (1) Highway, bridge, or other road projects eligible under title 23; (2) Public transportation projects eligible under chapter 53 title 49; (3) Passenger and freight rail transportation projects; (4) Port infrastructure investments; (5) Surface transportation components of eligible airport projects; (6) Projects investing in surface transportation facilities located on Tribal land; (7) Projects to replace or rehabilitate a culvert or prevent stormwater runoff for the purpose of improving habitat for aquatic species that will advance the goal of the program; (8) Intermodal projects whose components are otherwise an eligible project type; and (9) Any other surface transportation infrastructure project that the Secretary considers to be necessary to advance the goals of the program. Eligible Planning Project activities include: (1) Planning, preparation, design, or engineering (e.g., feasibility studies, benefit-cost analysis, environmental analysis, permitting, and other pre-construction activities) of eligible surface transportation Capital Projects that will not result in construction with this funding; (2) Development of master plans, comprehensive plans, transportation corridor plans, and integrated economic development, land use, housing, and transportation plans; (3) Planning activities related to the development of a multimodal freight corridor; (4) Development of port and regional port planning, including State-wide or multi-port planning within a single jurisdiction or region; (5) Risk assessments and planning to identify vulnerabilities and address the transportation system’s ability to withstand probable occurrence or recurrence of an emergency or major disaster. Note that applications must be submitted through Valid Eval, not Grants.gov.
Funding
: Nov 26 – Feb 24, 2026
up to $25M
Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program
The U.S. DOT’s BUILD grant program provides grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. The eligibility requirements of BUILD 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. Projects can be for planning or construction and are evaluated by their ability to address: safety; environmental sustainability; quality of life; mobility and community connectivity; economic competitiveness and opportunity including tourism; state of good repair; partnership and collaboration; and innovation.
The BUILD program was previously known as the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) discretionary grants.
Resource
Level of Effort:
NYSDEC Living Shoreline Map
Check out our interactive map to learn about living shoreline projects located in the marine district of New York.
More information about living shorelines and their benefits can be found on the NYSDEC Living Shorelines webpage.
Resource
Level of Effort:
NYSDEC Living Shoreline Map
Check out our interactive map to learn about living shoreline projects located in the marine district of New York.
More information about living shorelines and their benefits can be found on the NYSDEC Living Shorelines webpage.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 3 – LIS Resilience Planning Support Program
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 3 – LIS Resilience Planning Support Program: New Round Available & Showcase of Completed Projects was held on Friday, December 5, 2025. Participants learned about the newly available 3rd round of the LIS Resilience Planning Support Program and heard from three communities who received awards through the first round of the Program. Video of the session along with supporting materials is available below.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 3 – LIS Resilience Planning Support Program
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 3 – LIS Resilience Planning Support Program: New Round Available & Showcase of Completed Projects was held on Friday, December 5, 2025. Participants learned about the newly available 3rd round of the LIS Resilience Planning Support Program and heard from three communities who received awards through the first round of the Program. Video of the session along with supporting materials is available below.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 2 – Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 2 – Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience: A Panel Discussion on Common Challenges & Strategies for Success was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. In this interactive session, practitioners and experts discussed techniques for integrating nature-based solutions into resilience initiatives. The panel highlighted common challenges and shared successful strategies from projects in the Long Island Sound region. Video of the session along with supporting materials is available below.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 2 – Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 2 – Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience: A Panel Discussion on Common Challenges & Strategies for Success was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. In this interactive session, practitioners and experts discussed techniques for integrating nature-based solutions into resilience initiatives. The panel highlighted common challenges and shared successful strategies from projects in the Long Island Sound region. Video of the session along with supporting materials is available below.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 1 – Resilience 101
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 1 – Resilience 101: Helpful Tools and Strategies for Building Community Resilience was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Participants learned about available resilience resources and tools and then moved into breakout rooms to hear about state climate certification programs and resilience funds in both NY and CT. Videos of the main session and both breakout rooms are available below, along with supporting materials.
SRC Training
4th Annual SRC Workshop: Session 1 – Resilience 101
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) Team held our 2025 Annual Workshop virtually as three sessions over two days. Session topics focused on resources and tools available to help take advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Session 1 – Resilience 101: Helpful Tools and Strategies for Building Community Resilience was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Participants learned about available resilience resources and tools and then moved into breakout rooms to hear about state climate certification programs and resilience funds in both NY and CT. Videos of the main session and both breakout rooms are available below, along with supporting materials.
Funding
: Dec 12 – Feb 5, 2026
$20K - $200K
Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund 2026
The Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund 2026 is now open and supports nonprofit work that helps protect and restore the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. Funding is available for efforts that strengthen organizations (capacity building), build new collaborations, or support piloting tools and planning that increases environmental and natural resource impact.
Grant awards range from $20,000 to $200,000. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and projects must be located within the Long Island Sound watershed in Connecticut and New York (within the LISS National Estuary Boundary). Applicants are encouraged to review the full Request for Proposals and application instructions before submitting. An optional informational webinar is available for organizations seeking additional guidance on the application process.
Funding
: Dec 12 – Feb 5, 2026
$20K - $200K
Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund 2026
The Long Island Sound Stewardship Fund 2026 is now open and supports nonprofit work that helps protect and restore the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. Funding is available for efforts that strengthen organizations (capacity building), build new collaborations, or support piloting tools and planning that increases environmental and natural resource impact.
Events
UConn CLEAR Webinar: Connecticut’s Lidar and Orthoimagery
UConn CLEAR is offering a series of engaging webinars this winter, including an in-depth session on Connecticut’s ongoing Lidar and orthoimagery project. This presentation will explore the statewide effort that began in 2022 and continues through 2026. Speakers from Dewberry will explain the data products created from the 2023 acquisition and highlight how these datasets are being used in planning, mapping, environmental analysis, and other geospatial applications. The session is designed to help participants understand the importance of high quality elevation and imagery data in supporting statewide decision making.
The webinar will also discuss potential uses for these datasets in the coming years and provide a preview of the planned 2026 acquisition and delivery. Participants will gain insight into how Lidar and orthoimagery support climate resilience work, infrastructure planning, land use analysis, and broader environmental assessments. This session is open to anyone interested in geospatial data, statewide imagery, or Connecticut’s evolving GIS resources, and registration is available through UConn CLEAR.
Events
UConn CLEAR Webinar: Connecticut’s Lidar and Orthoimagery
UConn CLEAR is offering a series of engaging webinars this winter, including an in-depth session on Connecticut’s ongoing Lidar and orthoimagery project. This presentation will explore the statewide effort that began in 2022 and continues through 2026. Speakers from Dewberry will explain the data products created from the 2023 acquisition and highlight how these datasets are being used in planning, mapping, environmental analysis, and other geospatial applications. The session is designed to help participants understand the importance of high quality elevation and imagery data in supporting statewide decision making.
The webinar will also discuss potential uses for these datasets in the coming years and provide a preview of the planned 2026 acquisition and delivery. Participants will gain insight into how Lidar and orthoimagery support climate resilience work, infrastructure planning, land use analysis, and broader environmental assessments. This session is open to anyone interested in geospatial data, statewide imagery, or Connecticut’s evolving GIS resources, and registration is available through UConn CLEAR.
Events
UConn CLEAR Webinar
This UConn CLEAR webinar provides an updated overview of Connecticut’s ongoing statewide Lidar and orthoimagery project. Dewberry’s technical team will introduce the data products generated from the 2023 acquisition and explain how these datasets are being used across environmental planning, land management, infrastructure mapping, and community decision-making. The session is designed to help participants understand the value of high resolution elevation and imagery data and how these resources support public agencies, researchers, and local communities.
The webinar will also look ahead to the 2026 phase of the project, offering insight into expected updates, new deliverables, and potential applications for longterm statewide planning. Attendees will gain a stronger understanding of how Lidar and orthoimagery fit into Connecticut’s geospatial data strategy and how these datasets can support climate resilience, hazard mapping, and improved environmental analysis. This session is open to anyone interested in GIS, remote sensing, or the state’s evolving geospatial data resources.
Events
UConn CLEAR Webinar
This UConn CLEAR webinar provides an updated overview of Connecticut’s ongoing statewide Lidar and orthoimagery project. Dewberry’s technical team will introduce the data products generated from the 2023 acquisition and explain how these datasets are being used across environmental planning, land management, infrastructure mapping, and community decision-making. The session is designed to help participants understand the value of high resolution elevation and imagery data and how these resources support public agencies, researchers, and local communities.
The webinar will also look ahead to the 2026 phase of the project, offering insight into expected updates, new deliverables, and potential applications for longterm statewide planning. Attendees will gain a stronger understanding of how Lidar and orthoimagery fit into Connecticut’s geospatial data strategy and how these datasets can support climate resilience, hazard mapping, and improved environmental analysis. This session is open to anyone interested in GIS, remote sensing, or the state’s evolving geospatial data resources.
Funding
: Nov 20 – Jan 28, 2026
FY26 EPA Brownfields Multipurpose Assessment, RLF, & Cleanup Grants
The EPA’s Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup Grants provide funding for communities that need support to assess, plan, and remediate brownfield sites affected by hazardous substances and petroleum contamination. Through this program, municipalities, tribes, and nonprofit organizations can complete environmental investigations, develop cleanup strategies, begin remediation work, and strengthen their overall capacity to reduce environmental health risks. These grants help communities improve land use, address blight, and move toward safer and more sustainable redevelopment.
The program includes four types of funding that together support the full brownfield process. Multipurpose Grants allow a community to combine assessment, planning, and cleanup activities within one award. Assessment Grants cover site investigations, environmental reviews, and prioritization work. Cleanup Grants support remediation at specific sites, including soil and groundwater treatment. Revolving Loan Fund Grants provide funding that communities can lend or subgrant to support continued cleanup activities. EPA also offers extensive support resources that include recorded trainings, narrative guidance materials, checklists, and application tools to help applicants prepare strong proposals. Connecticut applicants are encouraged to reach out to UConn’s Technical Assistance to Brownfields Program for assistance.
The FY2026 guidelines introduce updates related to Assessment Coalition eligibility and requirements for site characterization under the Cleanup Grant program. Applicants can access EPA’s full library of guidance materials, minimum requirement videos, and planning resources that explain threshold criteria, allowable activities, and expectations for each grant type. These materials help communities align their projects with federal brownfield objectives and improve the quality of their applications.
Funding
: Nov 20 – Jan 28, 2026
FY26 EPA Brownfields Multipurpose Assessment, RLF, & Cleanup Grants
The EPA’s Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup Grants provide funding for communities that need support to assess, plan, and remediate brownfield sites affected by hazardous substances and petroleum contamination. Through this program, municipalities, tribes, and nonprofit organizations can complete environmental investigations, develop cleanup strategies, begin remediation work, and strengthen their overall capacity to reduce environmental health risks. These grants help communities improve land use, address blight, and move toward safer and more sustainable redevelopment.
The program includes four types of funding that together support the full brownfield process. Multipurpose Grants allow a community to combine assessment, planning, and cleanup activities within one award. Assessment Grants cover site investigations, environmental reviews, and prioritization work. Cleanup Grants support remediation at specific sites, including soil and groundwater treatment. Revolving Loan Fund Grants provide funding that communities can lend or subgrant to support continued cleanup activities. EPA also offers extensive support resources that include recorded trainings, narrative guidance materials, checklists, and application tools to help applicants prepare strong proposals. Connecticut applicants are encouraged to reach out to UConn’s Technical Assistance to Brownfields Program for assistance.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
NYC Flood Hazard Mapper
The NYC Flood Hazard Mapper is an interactive tool created by the NYC Department of City Planning to help residents, businesses, and planners understand flood risks across New York City. It provides maps showing current coastal flood hazards, FEMA flood zones, and areas that may be affected by sea level rise in the future. By searching an address or exploring different map layers, users can see how flooding may impact specific neighborhoods today and under future climate conditions.
This resource is designed to support safer decision making as the frequency and severity of flooding increases. While the mapper offers valuable visual data and projections, it is meant for general information only and should not replace official FEMA resources or professional guidance. Users are encouraged to use this tool as a starting point to learn about local flood exposure and to explore how environmental changes may affect communities throughout the city.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
NYC Flood Hazard Mapper
The NYC Flood Hazard Mapper is an interactive tool created by the NYC Department of City Planning to help residents, businesses, and planners understand flood risks across New York City. It provides maps showing current coastal flood hazards, FEMA flood zones, and areas that may be affected by sea level rise in the future. By searching an address or exploring different map layers, users can see how flooding may impact specific neighborhoods today and under future climate conditions.
This resource is designed to support safer decision making as the frequency and severity of flooding increases. While the mapper offers valuable visual data and projections, it is meant for general information only and should not replace official FEMA resources or professional guidance. Users are encouraged to use this tool as a starting point to learn about local flood exposure and to explore how environmental changes may affect communities throughout the city.
Funding
: Oct 23 – Nov 21, 2025
$200,000-500,000
National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program
The National Estuary Program (NEP) Watersheds Grant Program is a nationally competitive grants addressing the most pressing threats to estuarine health within the 28 NEP boundary areas. This program is offered through Restore America’s Estuaries, with funding from the U.S. EPA.
Program priorities include: 1) Habitat loss (wetlands, seagrass, mangroves, reefs), 2) Coastal resilience and sea level rise, 3) Nutrient pollution, 4) Stormwater impacts and erosion, and 5) Invasive species and marine mammal mortalities.
Funding
: Oct 23 – Nov 21, 2025
$200,000-500,000
National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program
The National Estuary Program (NEP) Watersheds Grant Program is a nationally competitive grants addressing the most pressing threats to estuarine health within the 28 NEP boundary areas. This program is offered through Restore America’s Estuaries, with funding from the U.S. EPA.
Funding
: Nov 1 – Feb 13, 2026
Partnering for Climate-Resilient Land Protection Technical Assistance from The Nature Conservancy in New York
The Nature Conservancy is piloting a new program for land trusts across New York to receive tailored technical assistance aimed at accelerating the protection of lands vital to freshwater and coastal ecosystems, climate adaptation, and landscape connectivity. There is no cost to the land trust and no application is required to access this program.
Eligibility and Cost This opportunity is currently available to land trusts operating in New York. While we are limiting eligibility in this first year, we welcome interest from other conservation organizations and may consider expanding the program in the future. Importantly, there is no requirement to submit a Climate Resilience Grant Program (CRGP) application, and there is no cost to participate—TNC is offering staff time and data resources free of charge. How to Request Assistance The deadline for submitting this expression of interest is February 13, 2026. After receiving your expression of interest, we will follow up within a week to schedule a one-on-one conversation. These conversations help us understand your context and determine how our expertise aligns with your needs. Once we have an understanding of need and how our capacity can best provide support, we will determine which interested land trusts we can work with in the March-April timeframe.
Funding
: Nov 1 – Feb 13, 2026
Partnering for Climate-Resilient Land Protection Technical Assistance from The Nature Conservancy in New York
The Nature Conservancy is piloting a new program for land trusts across New York to receive tailored technical assistance aimed at accelerating the protection of lands vital to freshwater and coastal ecosystems, climate adaptation, and landscape connectivity. There is no cost to the land trust and no application is required to access this program.
Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) & EWP Floodplain Easement Programs
The USDA Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) and Floodplain Easement Programs provide post-disaster assistance to reduce risks to life and property in damaged watersheds. These programs fund immediate and long-term recovery actions such as debris removal, streambank stabilization, drainage system repair, levee restoration, and floodplain easements. Assistance is available to help communities recover after natural disasters and strengthen resilience against future flooding impacts. Grant Fact Sheet.
Eligible entities must submit applications within 60 days of the disaster event. Funding supports activities including debris removal, erosion reduction, vegetative restoration, repair of damaged infrastructure, and voluntary property buyouts or easements to restore natural floodplain function. The 60-day deadline may be waived for property acquisitions in NRCS-designated limited-resource areas. Applicants must work with a local sponsor, and most projects include a local cost-share component. These programs are administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to reduce watershed hazards and improve long-term resilience.
Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) & EWP Floodplain Easement Programs
The USDA Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) and Floodplain Easement Programs provide post-disaster assistance to reduce risks to life and property in damaged watersheds. These programs fund immediate and long-term recovery actions such as debris removal, streambank stabilization, drainage system repair, levee restoration, and floodplain easements. Assistance is available to help communities recover after natural disasters and strengthen resilience against future flooding impacts. Grant Fact Sheet.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Resilience and Adaptation in New England (RAINE) Database
Explore a range of tools and guidance to support climate adaptation planning through EPA New England’s Resilience and Adaptation in New England (RAINE) initiative, which supports users in exploring climate resilience planning across the New England. These resources include more than 1,200 climate adaptation plans. Practitioners can use the Featured Locations Interactive Map to view climate action examples or explore additional climate visualization platforms through the Mapping Climate Change Impacts Tools page. The database also highlights Tribal Climate Adaptation Resources, featuring plans from federally recognized tribes in New England. Users can view recorded webinars and trainings for technical guidance.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Resilience and Adaptation in New England (RAINE) Database
Explore a range of tools and guidance to support climate adaptation planning through EPA New England’s Resilience and Adaptation in New England (RAINE) initiative, which supports users in exploring climate resilience planning across the New England. These resources include more than 1,200 climate adaptation plans. Practitioners can use the Featured Locations Interactive Map to view climate action examples or explore additional climate visualization platforms through the Mapping Climate Change Impacts Tools page. The database also highlights Tribal Climate Adaptation Resources, featuring plans from federally recognized tribes in New England. Users can view recorded webinars and trainings for technical guidance.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 3
LIS Resilience Planning Support Program: New Round Available & Showcase of Completed Projects
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Friday, December 5 from 10-11:30 AM to learn about the Long Island Sound Resilience Planning Support Program. This assistance opportunity has been available to communities on a yearly basis since Fall 2023, and the next round will open on December 1, 2025 – so this is your chance to get all the details! This session will also feature communities who received support through the first round, who will share about their experience and planned next steps.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 3
LIS Resilience Planning Support Program: New Round Available & Showcase of Completed Projects
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Friday, December 5 from 10-11:30 AM to learn about the Long Island Sound Resilience Planning Support Program. This assistance opportunity has been available to communities on a yearly basis since Fall 2023, and the next round will open on December 1, 2025 – so this is your chance to get all the details! This session will also feature communities who received support through the first round, who will share about their experience and planned next steps.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 2
Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience: A Panel Discussion on Common Challenges & Strategies for Success
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Thursday, December 4 from 1-3 PM to learn why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning and projects. This interactive session will feature communities and practitioners who have encountered challenges and found success using nature-based solutions in the Long Island Sound region.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 2
Using Nature-Based Solutions for Resilience: A Panel Discussion on Common Challenges & Strategies for Success
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Thursday, December 4 from 1-3 PM to learn why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning and projects. This interactive session will feature communities and practitioners who have encountered challenges and found success using nature-based solutions in the Long Island Sound region.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 1
Resilience 101: Helpful Tools & Strategies for Building Community Resilience
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Thursday, December 4 from 10 AM-12 PM to learn more about resilience planning basics, including local climate impacts and projections, state climate certification programs, and available tools & resources.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
SRC Events
4th Annual SRC Workshop – Session 1
Resilience 101: Helpful Tools & Strategies for Building Community Resilience
The Long Island Sound Sustainable and Resilient Communities Team is excited to announce that for our 2025 Annual Workshop we are holding a series of three virtual sessions over two days focused on resources and tools available to help in taking advantage of state resilience funds, a panel discussion on why and how to incorporate nature-based solutions into resilience planning, and an overview of our available assistance programs.
Join us on Thursday, December 4 from 10 AM-12 PM to learn more about resilience planning basics, including local climate impacts and projections, state climate certification programs, and available tools & resources.
More information, including panelist bios, will be provided to all registrants closer to the Workshop.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Coastal Barrier Resources System Mapper
Signed into law on November 25, 2024, the bipartisan BEACH Act (BEACH Act; Pub. L. 118-117) reauthorizes the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) and updates maps for 454 coastal units across 13 U.S. states, including Connecticut. The revised Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) maps are now effective and available through the CBRS Mapper
The BEACH Act expands eligibility for federal flood insurance and financial assistance in areas removed from the CBRS, while limiting new federal funding in areas added to the system. It also introduces new requirements for CBRA disclosures during real estate transactions, guidance for emergency coastal projects, and research initiatives on coastal barrier ecosystem dynamics.
Agencies involved:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Geological Survey.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Coastal Barrier Resources System Mapper
Signed into law on November 25, 2024, the bipartisan BEACH Act (BEACH Act; Pub. L. 118-117) reauthorizes the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) and updates maps for 454 coastal units across 13 U.S. states, including Connecticut. The revised Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) maps are now effective and available through the CBRS Mapper
The BEACH Act expands eligibility for federal flood insurance and financial assistance in areas removed from the CBRS, while limiting new federal funding in areas added to the system. It also introduces new requirements for CBRA disclosures during real estate transactions, guidance for emergency coastal projects, and research initiatives on coastal barrier ecosystem dynamics.
Agencies involved:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Geological Survey.
Training
Dodge Paddock & Beal Preserve Marsh Restoration Field Trip and Workshop
On October 16, 2025, the Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team of the Long Island Sound Partnership hosted a field trip featuring the Dodge Paddock and Beal Preserve Marsh Restoration Project in Stonington Borough. The day started with a presentation outlining the history and current state of the site, followed by a walk to Dodge Paddock and Beal Preserve where there was a guided tour led by Connecticut Sea Grant, Avalonia Land Conservancy, and local volunteers. The day included a deep dive into the invasive species removal process, plantings to accommodate marsh migration, and a close up look at what has grown since then. Special thanks to our partners with Avalonia Land Conservancy, Connecticut Sea Grant, and the Stonington Community.

Training
Dodge Paddock & Beal Preserve Marsh Restoration Field Trip and Workshop
On October 16, 2025, the Sustainable and Resilient Communities (SRC) team of the Long Island Sound Partnership hosted a field trip featuring the Dodge Paddock and Beal Preserve Marsh Restoration Project in Stonington Borough. The day started with a presentation outlining the history and current state of the site, followed by a walk to Dodge Paddock and Beal Preserve where there was a guided tour led by Connecticut Sea Grant, Avalonia Land Conservancy, and local volunteers. The day included a deep dive into the invasive species removal process, plantings to accommodate marsh migration, and a close up look at what has grown since then. Special thanks to our partners with Avalonia Land Conservancy, Connecticut Sea Grant, and the Stonington Community.

Case Study
Project
Hamden, CT
Town of Hamden’s Bioretention Project
The Town of Hamden’s Bioretention Project is the largest municipally owned rain garden in the state! Save the Sound, in partnership with the Town of Hamden, completed this large-scale rain garden project at Hamden Town Center Park to improve local water quality, restore habitat, and enhance community resilience. The project transformed approximately 2.5 acres of lawn into a functioning green infrastructure system that now manages runoff from an 88-acre urban watershed draining Dixwell Avenue and surrounding neighborhoods. Prior to the project, stormwater often overflowed directly into Pardee Brook and the Mill River, carrying pollutants and inundating the park.
The newly constructed rain garden was engineered with layers of soil, sand, and rock, and planted with more than 7,000 native grasses, flowers, and shrubs thanks to additional support from the Land Trust of Hamden. These plantings naturally filter pollutants such as fertilizers, road salt, and chemicals. Community volunteers helped complete the planting, strengthening local stewardship in the Town of Hamden.
A 40,000 sq ft rain garden was installed and included restoration of an acre of park land. The system now treats over 20 million gallons of stormwater annually, reducing flooding and restoring more natural hydrology to Shepard Brook and the Mill River. Beyond its environmental benefits, the project created valuable wildlife habitat and a welcoming green space for residents to enjoy. Adaptive management, more planting, and stewardship is planned for 2025 and 2026.
Nicole Davis, Save the Sound
Jim Sirch, Hamden Land Conservation Trust
Stephen White, PE, Town of Hamden Engineer/LTA
Case Study
Project
Hamden, CT
Town of Hamden’s Bioretention Project
The Town of Hamden’s Bioretention Project is the largest municipally owned rain garden in the state! Save the Sound, in partnership with the Town of Hamden, completed this large-scale rain garden project at Hamden Town Center Park to improve local water quality, restore habitat, and enhance community resilience. The project transformed approximately 2.5 acres of lawn into a functioning green infrastructure system that now manages runoff from an 88-acre urban watershed draining Dixwell Avenue and surrounding neighborhoods. Prior to the project, stormwater often overflowed directly into Pardee Brook and the Mill River, carrying pollutants and inundating the park.
The newly constructed rain garden was engineered with layers of soil, sand, and rock, and planted with more than 7,000 native grasses, flowers, and shrubs thanks to additional support from the Land Trust of Hamden. These plantings naturally filter pollutants such as fertilizers, road salt, and chemicals. Community volunteers helped complete the planting, strengthening local stewardship in the Town of Hamden.
Funding
: Sep 25 – Dec 18, 2025
< $1M
Connecticut Recreational Trails Program
This year, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)’s Recreational Trails Program will make up to $1 million available for trail projects. All projects utilizing CT Recreational Trails Grant funds must be accessible to the public. Grant amounts vary and will depend upon the availability of currently uncommitted state funds.
Connecticut Recreational Trails Program funds may be requested for uses including: 1) Planning, design and construction of new trails (motorized and non-motorized); 2) Maintenance and restoration of existing trails (motorized and non-motorized); 3) Access to trails by persons with disabilities; 4) Purchase and lease of trail construction and maintenance equipment; 5) Acquisition of land or easements for a trail, or for trail corridors; and 6) Operation of educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection as related to recreational trails.
Funding
: Sep 25 – Dec 18, 2025
< $1M
Connecticut Recreational Trails Program
This year, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)’s Recreational Trails Program will make up to $1 million available for trail projects. All projects utilizing CT Recreational Trails Grant funds must be accessible to the public. Grant amounts vary and will depend upon the availability of currently uncommitted state funds.
Events
Connecticut Association of Floodplain Managers 12th Annual Conference
The Connecticut Association of Flood Managers (CAFM) will convene its 12th Annual Conference and Meeting at the Central Connecticut State University Student Center in New Britain, Connecticut on Thursday, November 20, 2025. A cornerstone of CAFM’s mission is to educate a broad range of professionals regarding recent flooding concerns and other issues and problems associated with managing flood risk, making communities more resilient, disaster recovery, and the protection of floodplains. Our goal for this conference is to examine the current challenges facing Connecticut and share experiences and lessons learned as flood managers and municipal officials.
Save the Date – Registration coming soon!
Events
Connecticut Association of Floodplain Managers 12th Annual Conference
The Connecticut Association of Flood Managers (CAFM) will convene its 12th Annual Conference and Meeting at the Central Connecticut State University Student Center in New Britain, Connecticut on Thursday, November 20, 2025. A cornerstone of CAFM’s mission is to educate a broad range of professionals regarding recent flooding concerns and other issues and problems associated with managing flood risk, making communities more resilient, disaster recovery, and the protection of floodplains. Our goal for this conference is to examine the current challenges facing Connecticut and share experiences and lessons learned as flood managers and municipal officials.
Save the Date – Registration coming soon!
Data
Level of Effort:
SCRCOG Municipal Data Dashboard
The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) has created an interactive data dashboard. This dashboard allows users to explore, visualize, and download regional data to support informed decision-making. Scroll down on the page and use the left/right arrows to access the information and visualizations.
Data
Level of Effort:
SCRCOG Municipal Data Dashboard
The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) has created an interactive data dashboard. This dashboard allows users to explore, visualize, and download regional data to support informed decision-making. Scroll down on the page and use the left/right arrows to access the information and visualizations.
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
CT DEEP Grants Database
CT DEEP recently released a new tool allowing users to search for DEEP financial assistance programs based on a variety of parameters such as eligibility requirements, grant cycle status, project types, and more. This resource and offers “one-stop shopping” for many DEEP funding opportunities.
Guidance Tool
Level of Effort:
CT DEEP Grants Database
CT DEEP recently released a new tool allowing users to search for DEEP financial assistance programs based on a variety of parameters such as eligibility requirements, grant cycle status, project types, and more. This resource and offers “one-stop shopping” for many DEEP funding opportunities.
Events
RAE 2025 Living Shorelines Tech Transfer Workshop
Join Restore America’s Estuaries (RAE) for the 2025 Living Shorelines Tech Transfer Workshop taking place from October 29 – 30 in New Haven, Connecticut. This event, hosted by Restore America’s Estuaries and Doherty Climate and Resilience Institute at Save the Sound, will present a unique platform to learn, engage, and exchange knowledge with professionals, experts, and stakeholders in the field of coastal and estuarine habitat restoration. Our focus will be on Living Shorelines – an innovative and nature-based solution to shoreline stabilization and ecosystem conservation.
Events
RAE 2025 Living Shorelines Tech Transfer Workshop
Join Restore America’s Estuaries (RAE) for the 2025 Living Shorelines Tech Transfer Workshop taking place from October 29 – 30 in New Haven, Connecticut. This event, hosted by Restore America’s Estuaries and Doherty Climate and Resilience Institute at Save the Sound, will present a unique platform to learn, engage, and exchange knowledge with professionals, experts, and stakeholders in the field of coastal and estuarine habitat restoration. Our focus will be on Living Shorelines – an innovative and nature-based solution to shoreline stabilization and ecosystem conservation.
SRC Events
Suffolk County Coastal Resilience Forum and Field Trip
Join us at the Long Island Sound Suffolk County Coastal Resilience Forum for an opportunity to connect, learn and be inspired!
Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 (rain or shine)
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Port Jefferson Village Center (101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson , NY 11777)
Register by September 30. Contact elizabeth.hornstein@cornell.edu for more information.
This forum will bring together state and local decision makers, municipal staff, and other interested parties working to address coastal issues to share information on best practices, identify opportunities to increase resilience, and enhance coordination across communities. Participants will hear from NY state, regional, and local partners about resilience initiatives and learn about new tools and resources. We will end the forum with a walking tour of Port Jefferson Village to hear about the Village’s resilience initiatives, successes, and challenges.
The event is free. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Please note, most parking lots in the Village have metered parking. We can reimburse travel expenses and parking fees, up to $150/person (for those that do not have travel budgets through their employers) on a first come first serve basis.
This event is hosted by Long Island Sound Partnership and New York Sea Grant, in partnership with Nassau & Suffolk Soil and Water Conservation District.
*The event is intended as a learning experience for adults 18 years of age or older.
Click here to register for the Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum (October 9, 2025) or other events happening during Long Island Sound Coastal Resilience Month!
SRC Events
Suffolk County Coastal Resilience Forum and Field Trip
Join us at the Long Island Sound Suffolk County Coastal Resilience Forum for an opportunity to connect, learn and be inspired!
Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 (rain or shine)
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Port Jefferson Village Center (101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson , NY 11777)
Register by September 30. Contact elizabeth.hornstein@cornell.edu for more information.
This forum will bring together state and local decision makers, municipal staff, and other interested parties working to address coastal issues to share information on best practices, identify opportunities to increase resilience, and enhance coordination across communities. Participants will hear from NY state, regional, and local partners about resilience initiatives and learn about new tools and resources. We will end the forum with a walking tour of Port Jefferson Village to hear about the Village’s resilience initiatives, successes, and challenges.
The event is free. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Please note, most parking lots in the Village have metered parking. We can reimburse travel expenses and parking fees, up to $150/person (for those that do not have travel budgets through their employers) on a first come first serve basis.
This event is hosted by Long Island Sound Partnership and New York Sea Grant, in partnership with Nassau & Suffolk Soil and Water Conservation District.
*The event is intended as a learning experience for adults 18 years of age or older.
Click here to register for the Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum (October 9, 2025) or other events happening during Long Island Sound Coastal Resilience Month!
Training
Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum & Field Trip – 2025

2025 Nassau Coastal Resilience Forum field trip to Sands Point Preserve. Credit: Sumayyah Uddin / NYSG
On October 9, 2025 state and local decision makers, municipal staff, and other interested parties working to address flooding, shoreline erosion and other coastal issues gathered at the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy in Sands Point, NY for the 3rd Annual Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum. The Forum provided a chance to share information on best practices, discuss challenges, identify opportunities to increase resilience, and enhance coordination across communities. Forum attendees heard updates on State resilience initiatives from agencies like the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, as well as presentations on new resilience tools and resources from Seatuck Environmental Association, the U.S. Geological Survey, New York Sea Grant, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County, and Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District. In the afternoon, Forum attendees were given a guided tour of the recent expansions to the bluff stabilization project at the Preserve.
The event was hosted by Long Island Sound Partnership and New York Sea Grant, in partnership with the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy and Nassau and Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
Training
Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum & Field Trip – 2025

2025 Nassau Coastal Resilience Forum field trip to Sands Point Preserve. Credit: Sumayyah Uddin / NYSG
On October 9, 2025 state and local decision makers, municipal staff, and other interested parties working to address flooding, shoreline erosion and other coastal issues gathered at the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy in Sands Point, NY for the 3rd Annual Nassau County Coastal Resilience Forum. The Forum provided a chance to share information on best practices, discuss challenges, identify opportunities to increase resilience, and enhance coordination across communities. Forum attendees heard updates on State resilience initiatives from agencies like the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, as well as presentations on new resilience tools and resources from Seatuck Environmental Association, the U.S. Geological Survey, New York Sea Grant, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County, and Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District. In the afternoon, Forum attendees were given a guided tour of the recent expansions to the bluff stabilization project at the Preserve.
The event was hosted by Long Island Sound Partnership and New York Sea Grant, in partnership with the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy and Nassau and Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
Data
Level of Effort:
NYSDEC Division of Water Grants Data Portal
This portal contains the comprehensive dataset of awarded projects for the Water Quality Improvement Project Program (WQIP) and the Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and MS4 Mapping Grant (NPG). Data is displayed simultaneously on a map and data table and can be filtered by Grant Program, Applicant, County, Project Type, and Funding Source.
Data
Level of Effort:
NYSDEC Division of Water Grants Data Portal
This portal contains the comprehensive dataset of awarded projects for the Water Quality Improvement Project Program (WQIP) and the Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and MS4 Mapping Grant (NPG). Data is displayed simultaneously on a map and data table and can be filtered by Grant Program, Applicant, County, Project Type, and Funding Source.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
The Long Island Sound and Watershed Metadata Map Application
The Long Island Sound watershed is home to nearly 9 million people in parts of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Canada. Government agencies, nonprofits, and Tribal Nations have overseen numerous projects to monitor and protect the water resources of this watershed and the sound. Although there is an abundance of data, there is no easy way to search them or a central place to manage this information. To help, the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Long Island Sound Study have created an interactive map to help users find and understand data about the water resources of the Long Island Sound and its watershed.
This mapping tool does not host data or maintain data repositories. Instead, it compiles and presents metadata from publicly accessible databases managed by State and other organizations.
Refer to this fact sheet for details about the application and its data sources: The Long Island Sound and Watershed Metadata map application
Mapper
Level of Effort:
The Long Island Sound and Watershed Metadata Map Application
The Long Island Sound watershed is home to nearly 9 million people in parts of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Canada. Government agencies, nonprofits, and Tribal Nations have overseen numerous projects to monitor and protect the water resources of this watershed and the sound. Although there is an abundance of data, there is no easy way to search them or a central place to manage this information. To help, the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Long Island Sound Study have created an interactive map to help users find and understand data about the water resources of the Long Island Sound and its watershed.
This mapping tool does not host data or maintain data repositories. Instead, it compiles and presents metadata from publicly accessible databases managed by State and other organizations.
Refer to this fact sheet for details about the application and its data sources: The Long Island Sound and Watershed Metadata map application
Funding
: Jul 17 – Dec 17, 2025
Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program
The Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program provides funding assistance to develop or enhance urban green spaces for public enjoyment and/or environmental education. Promotion of open space in an urban setting may include, but may not be limited to, the development of a community garden or reclaiming and enhancing existing open space for the public’s use. Grants are awarded to projects that demonstrate the highest ability to benefit urban communities in close proximity to population centers.
Please review the Grant Program Eligibility Requirements. For questions on UGCG, contact Steven Perry: Steven.perry@ct.gov
Funding
: Jul 17 – Dec 17, 2025
Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program
The Urban Green and Community Gardens Grant Program provides funding assistance to develop or enhance urban green spaces for public enjoyment and/or environmental education. Promotion of open space in an urban setting may include, but may not be limited to, the development of a community garden or reclaiming and enhancing existing open space for the public’s use. Grants are awarded to projects that demonstrate the highest ability to benefit urban communities in close proximity to population centers.
Funding
: Jul 17 – Nov 3, 2025
up to 65-75% of fair market value
Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program
The Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition (OSWA) Grant Program provides financial assistance to municipalities and nonprofit land conservation organizations to acquire land for open space, and to water companies to acquire land to be classified as Class I or Class II water supply property.
Awards are granted to projects that offer the highest conservation and recreational value and that leverage the greatest percentage of private and municipal funding. Grants are awarded for the purchase of land that is: 1) Valuable for recreation, forestry, fishing, conservation of wildlife or natural resources; 2) A prime natural feature of the state's landscape; 3) Habitat for native plant or animal species listed as threatened, endangered or of special concern; 4) A relatively undisturbed outstanding example of an uncommon native ecological community; 5) Important for enhancing and conserving water quality; 6) Valuable for preserving local agricultural heritage; or 7) Eligible to be classified as Class I or Class II watershed land. Land acquired will be preserved in perpetuity predominately in its natural scenic and open condition, for the protection or provision of potable water, or for agriculture. For questions on OSWA, contact Allyson Clarke: Allyson.clarke@ct.gov
Funding
: Jul 17 – Nov 3, 2025
up to 65-75% of fair market value
Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program
The Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition (OSWA) Grant Program provides financial assistance to municipalities and nonprofit land conservation organizations to acquire land for open space, and to water companies to acquire land to be classified as Class I or Class II water supply property.
Funding
: Jun 16 – Jul 25, 2025
Over $2.3M available, divided by region
Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee Program Grant
The Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee (ILF) Program has accrued sufficient funds that are now available for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut. The National Audubon Society, Inc., through its state office, Audubon Connecticut, is the “sponsor” of Connecticut’s ILF program. The program allows permittees to pay a fee in lieu of taking on mitigation themselves. Instead, local organizations like land trusts, and other environmental nonprofits, are given the opportunity to apply for and receive grant funding for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut.
Restoration and enhancement projects are strongly encouraged and will likely score and rank higher than preservation projects. For restoration and enhancement projects, consultation with qualified professionals is recommended. See the Request for Letters of Intent at the link for details.
Funding
: Jun 16 – Jul 25, 2025
Over $2.3M available, divided by region
Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee Program Grant
The Connecticut Wetland In-Lieu Fee (ILF) Program has accrued sufficient funds that are now available for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut. The National Audubon Society, Inc., through its state office, Audubon Connecticut, is the “sponsor” of Connecticut’s ILF program. The program allows permittees to pay a fee in lieu of taking on mitigation themselves. Instead, local organizations like land trusts, and other environmental nonprofits, are given the opportunity to apply for and receive grant funding for the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of wetland and watercourse resources and associated upland buffers in the State of Connecticut.
Funding
: Jun 9 – Aug 31, 2025
up to $200,000
Trees for Communities Grant Program
The Trees for Communities Grant Program supports urban forestry projects that will increase tree cover or contribute to other urban forestry objectives such as improvement of forest health or utilization of urban wood in communities of need. Recent awardee projects can be found here: Urban and Community Forestry Grant Accomplishments.
Potential projects include but are not limited to: (1) Tree planting, stewardship, and maintenance; (2) Planning projects (e.g. tree inventories and forest management plans); (3) Workforce development; (4) Invasive species management; and (5) Urban wood utilization.
Funding
: Jun 9 – Aug 31, 2025
up to $200,000
Trees for Communities Grant Program
The Trees for Communities Grant Program supports urban forestry projects that will increase tree cover or contribute to other urban forestry objectives such as improvement of forest health or utilization of urban wood in communities of need. Recent awardee projects can be found here: Urban and Community Forestry Grant Accomplishments.
Training
Land Use Leadership Alliance (LULA) Training Program – Spring 2025

With funding from Long Island Sound Study and support from New York Sea Grant’s Sustainable and Resilient Communities Extension Professionals, Pace University’s Land Use Law Center brought its award-winning Land Use Leadership Alliance Training Program to Westchester municipalities within the Long Island Sound watershed. The training consisted of three full-day workshops held April 1, 8, and 22, 2025 in White Plains, NY to train local leaders on developing balanced strategies for effectively accomplishing policy objectives, particularly focused on land use, flood resilience, and natural resource protection to strengthen community planning and informed decision-making.
22 municipal staff and community leaders, representing 7 different Long Island Sound communities received resilience gap analyses that reviewed their municipality’s current zoning and comprehensive plan language, discussed common issues with their neighbors and built new networks of support, and graduated from the program empowered to plan for a more resilient future for their community and the Long Island Sound region.
If you are interested in learning more and participating in a future LULA training, please email lisresilience@gmail.com.
Training
Land Use Leadership Alliance (LULA) Training Program – Spring 2025

With funding from Long Island Sound Study and support from New York Sea Grant’s Sustainable and Resilient Communities Extension Professionals, Pace University’s Land Use Law Center brought its award-winning Land Use Leadership Alliance Training Program to Westchester municipalities within the Long Island Sound watershed. The training consisted of three full-day workshops held April 1, 8, and 22, 2025 in White Plains, NY to train local leaders on developing balanced strategies for effectively accomplishing policy objectives, particularly focused on land use, flood resilience, and natural resource protection to strengthen community planning and informed decision-making.
22 municipal staff and community leaders, representing 7 different Long Island Sound communities received resilience gap analyses that reviewed their municipality’s current zoning and comprehensive plan language, discussed common issues with their neighbors and built new networks of support, and graduated from the program empowered to plan for a more resilient future for their community and the Long Island Sound region.
If you are interested in learning more and participating in a future LULA training, please email lisresilience@gmail.com.
Case Study
Project
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
Case Study
Project
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
Case Study
Project
Old Saybrook, CT
Planning to Restore Chalker and Chapman Beach Marshes and Mitigate Marsh-Associated Flooding
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) Program, in December 2024 the Town of Old Saybrook was awarded $323,400 from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund to support the project: Planning to Restore Chalker and Chapman Beach Marshes and Mitigate Marsh-Associated Flooding (CT).
The project will conduct a feasibility analysis for restoring the degraded Chalker Beach Marsh and mitigate erosion of Cold Spring Brook marsh, examine potential residential neighborhood flood mitigation strategies and evaluate alternative concepts to restore the Cold Spring Brook marsh. Project will provide Chalker Beach marsh restoration plan and design alternatives, concept-level neighborhood-scale flood mitigation strategies and a concept-level Cold Spring Brook marsh erosion control/restoration practices.
LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:
Grant Writing Consultant: David Kozak
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $6,375
Christina M. Costa, CZEO, CFM, Zoning Enforcement Officer/Town Planner, Town of Old Saybrook, Chris.Costa@OldSaybrookCT.gov
Case Study
Project
Old Saybrook, CT
Planning to Restore Chalker and Chapman Beach Marshes and Mitigate Marsh-Associated Flooding
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) Program, in December 2024 the Town of Old Saybrook was awarded $323,400 from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund to support the project: Planning to Restore Chalker and Chapman Beach Marshes and Mitigate Marsh-Associated Flooding (CT).
The project will conduct a feasibility analysis for restoring the degraded Chalker Beach Marsh and mitigate erosion of Cold Spring Brook marsh, examine potential residential neighborhood flood mitigation strategies and evaluate alternative concepts to restore the Cold Spring Brook marsh. Project will provide Chalker Beach marsh restoration plan and design alternatives, concept-level neighborhood-scale flood mitigation strategies and a concept-level Cold Spring Brook marsh erosion control/restoration practices.
LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:
Grant Writing Consultant: David Kozak
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $6,375
GWA Case Study
Project
Mystic, CT
Mystic River Watershed Resilience Action Plan
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) 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
Maggie Favretti, President & Chair Board of Directors, Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed, info@alliancemrw.org
GWA Case Study
Project
Mystic, CT
Mystic River Watershed Resilience Action Plan
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) 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
Case Study
Project
Fairfield, CT
Mill River Wetland Committee’s River-Lab programs in Bridgeport, CT
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) Program, in 2024 the Mill River Wetland Committee (MRWC) was awarded $26,987 from the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund to support MRWC to lead the 5th Grade classes (2) at Barnum School in Bridgeport, CT through the Groundwater Study Trip in the fall of 2024 and Water Monitoring training in the spring of 2025.
LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:
Grant Writing Consultant: CT Grant Writers
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $1,912.50
Case Study
Project
Fairfield, CT
Mill River Wetland Committee’s River-Lab programs in Bridgeport, CT
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) Program, in 2024 the Mill River Wetland Committee (MRWC) was awarded $26,987 from the Long Island Sound Community Impact Fund to support MRWC to lead the 5th Grade classes (2) at Barnum School in Bridgeport, CT through the Groundwater Study Trip in the fall of 2024 and Water Monitoring training in the spring of 2025.
LIS Resilience Grant Writing Assistance Program Details:
Grant Writing Consultant: CT Grant Writers
Grant Writing Assistance Award: $1,912.50
Case Study
Project
Nassau & Suffolk County, NY
ReWild Long Island Community Gardens Program
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) 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
Case Study
Project
Nassau & Suffolk County, NY
ReWild Long Island Community Gardens Program
With support from the Long Island Sound Resilience Grant Writing Assistance (GWA) 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
Case Study
Project
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 (GWA) 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
Jane Jackson, Director of Stewardship, North Shore Land Alliance, jjackson@northshorelandalliance.org
Case Study
Project
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 (GWA) 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
Funding
: May 19 – Jul 31, 2025
NYSDOS Smart Growth Community Planning Grant Program
The NYS Department of State (NYSDOS) is soliciting applications from eligible towns, villages, cities, counties, regional planning entities and not-for-profit organizations to support the creation, or modification of comprehensive plans, area plans, or zoning codes to align with smart growth principals.
Funding
: May 19 – Jul 31, 2025
NYSDOS Smart Growth Community Planning Grant Program
The NYS Department of State (NYSDOS) is soliciting applications from eligible towns, villages, cities, counties, regional planning entities and not-for-profit organizations to support the creation, or modification of comprehensive plans, area plans, or zoning codes to align with smart growth principals.
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!
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!
Report
Level of Effort:
Averting Crisis -Zoning to Create Resilient Homes for All
This study by the Regional Plan Association assessed how flooding will threaten housing in Long Island, NYC, and Westchester County in the coming decades. It found that by 2040 as many as 1.6 million people could live in areas exposed to flooding and as many as 82,000 housing units could be lost, exacerbating housing shortages. The report includes recommendations for an integrated approach to land use planning and policy initiatives to create resilient communities.
Report
Level of Effort:
Averting Crisis -Zoning to Create Resilient Homes for All
This study by the Regional Plan Association assessed how flooding will threaten housing in Long Island, NYC, and Westchester County in the coming decades. It found that by 2040 as many as 1.6 million people could live in areas exposed to flooding and as many as 82,000 housing units could be lost, exacerbating housing shortages. The report includes recommendations for an integrated approach to land use planning and policy initiatives to create resilient communities.
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.
The Quinnipiac River Fund improves the health of the Quinnipiac River by funding projects that provide research, conservation, and advocacy for the river and its surrounding watersheds.
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.
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.
Please note, you only need to submit one application for each project and it will be sent to both offices. Requests may be made for the following bills: 1) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; 2) Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies; 3) Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies; 4) Financial Services and General Government; 5) Homeland Security; 6) Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; 7) Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; 8) Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies; 9) Military Construction and Veteran Affairs.
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.
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
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
Mapper
Level of Effort:
High Resolution Marsh Mapping
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and their contractor Whiteout Solutions have released a groundbreaking high-resolution dataset capturing over 12,000 acres of coastal saltmarsh and adjoining upland buffer in the state of Connecticut. The new dataset, available to the public via Whiteout’s web-based geospatial application geoSAP, includes:
- Topobathymetric LiDAR data, capable of capturing elevation points even below the water’s surface.
- Multispectral and RGB imagery detailing the complex structure of marshland vegetation and terrain.
- Landcover classification of the seven most common saltmarsh plant species derived from multiple overlapping datasets to aid in habitat monitoring and planning.
All data layers can be viewed and downloaded through geoSAP.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
High Resolution Marsh Mapping
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and their contractor Whiteout Solutions have released a groundbreaking high-resolution dataset capturing over 12,000 acres of coastal saltmarsh and adjoining upland buffer in the state of Connecticut. The new dataset, available to the public via Whiteout’s web-based geospatial application geoSAP, includes:
- Topobathymetric LiDAR data, capable of capturing elevation points even below the water’s surface.
- Multispectral and RGB imagery detailing the complex structure of marshland vegetation and terrain.
- Landcover classification of the seven most common saltmarsh plant species derived from multiple overlapping datasets to aid in habitat monitoring and planning.
All data layers can be viewed and downloaded through geoSAP.
Funding
: Jul 15 – Sep 10, 2025
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 22
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 22:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 22 notices is $25 million.
Eligible uses of funds include: Costs associated with the investigation, assessment, remediation and development of a brownfield, including but not limited to: soil, groundwater and infrastructure investigation; assessment; remediation; abatement; hazardous materials or waste disposal; long-term groundwater monitoring or monitoring for natural attenuation; other forms of institutional controls; attorneys’ fees (non-DECD contract related), planning, engineering and environmental consulting; building and structural issues (including demolition, asbestos abatement, PCB removal, contaminated wood or paint removal and other infrastructure remedial activities). Public-Private Partnership: DECD hopes to encourage public-private partnerships with this NOFA offering.
Funding
: Jul 15 – Sep 10, 2025
max $200,000 to $6M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 22
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 22:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $6M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 22 notices is $25 million.
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.
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.
Funding
: Apr 2 – Oct 1, 2025
$4,000 - $40,000
The Claire C. Bennitt Watershed Fund
This fund of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority aims to protect water quality by acquiring watershed land and promoting environmental education. The fund partners with local land trusts, municipalities, state agencies and others to protect threatened watershed lands and protect water quality while adding value to a community’s quality of life by protecting open spaces. There are grants available for land acquisition and environmental education programs.
Projects must benefit or have a meaningful relation to the residents of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District. The District is comprised of: Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, Derby. East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Killingworth, Madison, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Prospect, Seymour, West Haven and Woodbridge. Land Acquisition Grants: for the acquisition of title, conservation easements, and/or development rights to watershed land for the purpose of protecting, preserving, and enhancing water quality now and for future generations throughout the region. Environmental Education Program Grants: for organizations providing education in the appreciation of and preservation of our environment, with particular emphasis on the understanding of our water resources, the negative impacts of development and other activities on water quality, and the benefits to water quality and the environment of preserving watershed land as open space.
Funding
: Apr 2 – Oct 1, 2025
$4,000 - $40,000
The Claire C. Bennitt Watershed Fund
This fund of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority aims to protect water quality by acquiring watershed land and promoting environmental education. The fund partners with local land trusts, municipalities, state agencies and others to protect threatened watershed lands and protect water quality while adding value to a community’s quality of life by protecting open spaces. There are grants available for land acquisition and environmental education programs.
Funding
: Oct 2 – Apr 1, 2025
$4,000 - $40,000
The Claire C. Bennitt Watershed Fund
This fund of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority aims to protect water quality by acquiring watershed land and promoting environmental education. The fund partners with local land trusts, municipalities, state agencies and others to protect threatened watershed lands and protect water quality while adding value to a community’s quality of life by protecting open spaces. There are grants available for land acquisition and environmental education programs.
Projects must benefit or have a meaningful relation to the residents of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District. The District is comprised of: Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, Derby. East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Killingworth, Madison, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Prospect, Seymour, West Haven and Woodbridge. Land Acquisition Grants: for the acquisition of title, conservation easements, and/or development rights to watershed land for the purpose of protecting, preserving, and enhancing water quality now and for future generations throughout the region. Environmental Education Program Grants: for organizations providing education in the appreciation of and preservation of our environment, with particular emphasis on the understanding of our water resources, the negative impacts of development and other activities on water quality, and the benefits to water quality and the environment of preserving watershed land as open space.
Funding
: Oct 2 – Apr 1, 2025
$4,000 - $40,000
The Claire C. Bennitt Watershed Fund
This fund of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority aims to protect water quality by acquiring watershed land and promoting environmental education. The fund partners with local land trusts, municipalities, state agencies and others to protect threatened watershed lands and protect water quality while adding value to a community’s quality of life by protecting open spaces. There are grants available for land acquisition and environmental education programs.
~$300K to $15M
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program – Recurring Notice 5 Year
Note: this program has been paused indefinitely.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program was established in 2014 and is funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. ORLP is a nationally competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant program. It was created to aid disadvantaged, urban communities that lack access to close-by outdoor recreation. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of, public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces.
Entities interested in seeking funding under the ORLP program should contact their State’s Lead Agency (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for Connecticut; Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for New York) to get details about their state’s process for selecting and submitting projects to the NPS’ national competition.
Acquisition of lands, wetlands, and waters for public outdoor recreation may be eligible for assistance. Projects could involve a combination of land acquisition and site development. These projects can cater to a diverse range of public outdoor recreation activities and facilities required to enhance the use and enjoyment for the public. These include, and are not limited to: • Community Parks • Campgrounds • Playgrounds • Sport fields and Courts • Picnic Areas and Open-air Pavilions • Trails and Tracks for Hiking, Walking, Skating, or Biking • Water based Recreation Facilities for Swimming or Boating • Fishing and Hunting Facilities • Pools and Splash Pads • Publicly Accessible Nature Preserves or Conservation Areas • Community Gardens • Spectator Facilities such as Amphitheaters or Bandstands • Renovations of Existing Facilities • Interpretive Signage
~$300K to $15M
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program – Recurring Notice 5 Year
Note: this program has been paused indefinitely.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program was established in 2014 and is funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. ORLP is a nationally competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant program. It was created to aid disadvantaged, urban communities that lack access to close-by outdoor recreation. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of, public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces.
Entities interested in seeking funding under the ORLP program should contact their State’s Lead Agency (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for Connecticut; Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for New York) to get details about their state’s process for selecting and submitting projects to the NPS’ national competition.
Funding
: Dec 26 – Jun 1, 2025
~$300K to $15M
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program – Recurring Notice 5 Year
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program was established in 2014 and is funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. ORLP is a nationally competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant program. It was created to aid disadvantaged, urban communities that lack access to close-by outdoor recreation. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of, public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces.
Entities interested in seeking funding under the ORLP program should contact their State’s Lead Agency (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for Connecticut; Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for New York) to get details about their state’s process for selecting and submitting projects to the NPS’ national competition.
Acquisition of lands, wetlands, and waters for public outdoor recreation may be eligible for assistance. Projects could involve a combination of land acquisition and site development. These projects can cater to a diverse range of public outdoor recreation activities and facilities required to enhance the use and enjoyment for the public. These include, and are not limited to: • Community Parks • Campgrounds • Playgrounds • Sport fields and Courts • Picnic Areas and Open-air Pavilions • Trails and Tracks for Hiking, Walking, Skating, or Biking • Water based Recreation Facilities for Swimming or Boating • Fishing and Hunting Facilities • Pools and Splash Pads • Publicly Accessible Nature Preserves or Conservation Areas • Community Gardens • Spectator Facilities such as Amphitheaters or Bandstands • Renovations of Existing Facilities • Interpretive Signage
Funding
: Dec 26 – Jun 1, 2025
~$300K to $15M
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program – Recurring Notice 5 Year
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program was established in 2014 and is funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. ORLP is a nationally competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant program. It was created to aid disadvantaged, urban communities that lack access to close-by outdoor recreation. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of, public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces.
Entities interested in seeking funding under the ORLP program should contact their State’s Lead Agency (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for Connecticut; Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for New York) to get details about their state’s process for selecting and submitting projects to the NPS’ national competition.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current FY 2024
The Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current funding opportunity provides money to help reduce flood damage to
properties that have been repeatedly or severely flooded and are insured through the National Flood Insurance
Program. This funding is available after a major flood disaster is declared by the President.
Eligible project types include: • Property acquisition and structure demolition/relocation (preferred project type); • Dry floodproofing of historic residential buildings or non-residential buildings; • Non-structural retrofitting of existing buildings and facilities; • Mitigation reconstruction; and • Structural retrofitting of existing buildings (elevation). The local government is considered the subapplicant and will develop a subapplication with any interested property owners. Applications are due to the State by the stated deadline.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current FY 2024
The Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current funding opportunity provides money to help reduce flood damage to
properties that have been repeatedly or severely flooded and are insured through the National Flood Insurance
Program. This funding is available after a major flood disaster is declared by the President.
Funding
: Mar 1 – Apr 1, 2026
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) March-April
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: Mar 1 – Apr 1, 2026
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) March-April
The Land & Easement Acquisition Program (LEAP) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: Jul 1 – Sep 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 4
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: Jul 1 – Sep 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 4
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: May 1 – Jul 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 3
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: May 1 – Jul 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 3
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: Mar 1 – May 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 2
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: Mar 1 – May 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 2
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: Jan 1 – Mar 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 1
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Applications are accepted by invitation only. Potential applicants are required to contact Yaw Darko, CLCC’s Director of Grants and Programs, to discuss their project and determine eligibility.
Funding
: Jan 1 – Mar 1, 2025
$50K - $500K (or 30% of appraised value)
The Land Capital Grant Program – Round 1
The Land Capital Grant Program (LCG) is designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate the protection of valuable conservation lands. CLCC will prioritize projects that:
- Have a closing time frame of 12 months or less.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation.
- Align with statewide land conservation goals.
- Have leveraged and/or exhausted other public and private funding sources.
Funding
: Jan 10 – Mar 7, 2025
max $200,000 to $4M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 21
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 21:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $4M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $4M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 21 notices is $25 million.
Eligible uses of funds include: Costs associated with the investigation, assessment, remediation and development of a brownfield, including but not limited to: soil, groundwater and infrastructure investigation; assessment; remediation; abatement; hazardous materials or waste disposal; long-term groundwater monitoring or monitoring for natural attenuation; other forms of institutional controls; attorneys’ fees (non-DECD contract related), planning, engineering and environmental consulting; building and structural issues (including demolition, asbestos abatement, PCB removal, contaminated wood or paint removal and other infrastructure remedial activities). Public-Private Partnership: DECD hopes to encourage public-private partnerships with this NOFA offering.
Funding
: Jan 10 – Mar 7, 2025
max $200,000 to $4M, depending on grant type
Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development – Round 21
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) announced multiple funding availability notices under Round 21:
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Remediation & Limited-Assessment (up to $4M)
- Brownfield Municipal Grant Program – Assessment-Only (up to $200K)
- Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program (up to $4M)
- Brownfield Area-wide Revitalization Grant Program (up to $200K)
The total funding amount available for all Round 21 notices is $25 million.
Story Map
Connections to Long Island Sound
Created by UConn CLEAR in partnership with the Long Island Sound Study, this Population and Demographic Story Map explores the land and people in the Long Island Sound Watershed. From Canada down to the northern coast of Long Island, the watershed is a vastly diverse area in both land and people, populated by nearly 9 million people and characterized by farms, forests, urban centers, beaches, marshes and more. This story map showcases how the Sound is an integral part of the lives of those who live, work, and visit the region every day.
Story Map
Connections to Long Island Sound
Created by UConn CLEAR in partnership with the Long Island Sound Study, this Population and Demographic Story Map explores the land and people in the Long Island Sound Watershed. From Canada down to the northern coast of Long Island, the watershed is a vastly diverse area in both land and people, populated by nearly 9 million people and characterized by farms, forests, urban centers, beaches, marshes and more. This story map showcases how the Sound is an integral part of the lives of those who live, work, and visit the region every day.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Long Island Sound Coastal Zone Soil Survey
Connecticut shoreline data is now available via USDA’s Web Soil Survey mapping tool. This includes detailed aspects of the shallow subaqueous, submerged soils, and adjacent nearshore areas such as tidal marshes and beaches. This information will help inventory resources, plan for hazard mitigation, guide restoration efforts, and track environmental changes. The next phase of the project will map the New York side of the shoreline. See the Coastal Zone Soil Survey Fact Sheet to learn more about the process for collecting and documenting these data.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Long Island Sound Coastal Zone Soil Survey
Connecticut shoreline data is now available via USDA’s Web Soil Survey mapping tool. This includes detailed aspects of the shallow subaqueous, submerged soils, and adjacent nearshore areas such as tidal marshes and beaches. This information will help inventory resources, plan for hazard mitigation, guide restoration efforts, and track environmental changes. The next phase of the project will map the New York side of the shoreline. See the Coastal Zone Soil Survey Fact Sheet to learn more about the process for collecting and documenting these data.
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
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
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
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
$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.
Tier 1 will consist of grants for $150,000 for assessment (one-year project period), Tier 2 will consist of grants for $250,000 for planning (1-2 year project period), and Tier 3 will consist of grants for $350,000 for project development (two-year project period). Preference will be given to projects in which the majority of the funds are going to capacity-limited organizations and groups. Additionally, noncompetitive awards, or "Seed Funds" will be made to capacity-constrained communities and CBOs in a fixed amount of $75,000 each.
$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.
Training
Land Use Leadership Alliance (LULA)Training Program – Fall 2024

With funding from Long Island Sound Study and support from New York Sea Grant’s Sustainable and Resilient Communities Extension Professionals, Pace University’s Land Use Law Center brought its award-winning Land Use Leadership Alliance Training Program to Suffolk and Nassau municipalities within the Long Island Sound watershed. The training program consisted of three full-day workshops held in Hauppauge, NY that focused on the land use system, innovative approaches to sea level rise adaptation, hazard mitigation, and natural resource protection to strengthen community planning, regulation, and informed decision-making. 28 municipal staff and community leaders, representing 18 different Long Island Sound communities, completed the Program. Program graduates gained new networks of support, identified successful land use techniques, and developed implementation plans that will enable a more resilient future for their community and the Long Island Sound region.
The program comprised three full-day sessions on September 27, October 4, and October 18, 2024 at the Suffolk County Water Authority Education Center, 260 Motor Parkway in Hauppauge, NY.
If you are interested in learning more and participating in a future LULA training, please email lisresilience@gmail.com.
Training
Land Use Leadership Alliance (LULA)Training Program – Fall 2024

With funding from Long Island Sound Study and support from New York Sea Grant’s Sustainable and Resilient Communities Extension Professionals, Pace University’s Land Use Law Center brought its award-winning Land Use Leadership Alliance Training Program to Suffolk and Nassau municipalities within the Long Island Sound watershed. The training program consisted of three full-day workshops held in Hauppauge, NY that focused on the land use system, innovative approaches to sea level rise adaptation, hazard mitigation, and natural resource protection to strengthen community planning, regulation, and informed decision-making. 28 municipal staff and community leaders, representing 18 different Long Island Sound communities, completed the Program. Program graduates gained new networks of support, identified successful land use techniques, and developed implementation plans that will enable a more resilient future for their community and the Long Island Sound region.
The program comprised three full-day sessions on September 27, October 4, and October 18, 2024 at the Suffolk County Water Authority Education Center, 260 Motor Parkway in Hauppauge, NY.
If you are interested in learning more and participating in a future LULA training, please email lisresilience@gmail.com.
Funding
: May 16 – Mar 12, 2025
$150,000 - $3 million
Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grants
$15 million is available for municipalities, nonprofits, and State agencies through the Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant program for tree planting projects that expand, restore and create forested natural areas that serve urban populations. This competitive reimbursement grant program contributes to New York State’s goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033, which will mitigate climate change impacts like extreme heat.
CoRe grant applications are due by Wednesday March 12, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Funding
: May 16 – Mar 12, 2025
$150,000 - $3 million
Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grants
$15 million is available for municipalities, nonprofits, and State agencies through the Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant program for tree planting projects that expand, restore and create forested natural areas that serve urban populations. This competitive reimbursement grant program contributes to New York State’s goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033, which will mitigate climate change impacts like extreme heat.
Report
Level of Effort:
Opportunities for Federal Support of Community-Driven Relocation
Community-driven relocation describes a situation where a community decides it will relocate,
in whole or in part, to reduce the risk faced by communities and individuals. This Community-Driven Relocation Subcommittee report provides background on community-driven relocation, an
overview of the current federal legal and programmatic landscape, and potential next steps that
Federal agencies can take, as part of a whole-of-government approach, to support communities
contemplating relocation.
Report
Level of Effort:
Opportunities for Federal Support of Community-Driven Relocation
Community-driven relocation describes a situation where a community decides it will relocate,
in whole or in part, to reduce the risk faced by communities and individuals. This Community-Driven Relocation Subcommittee report provides background on community-driven relocation, an
overview of the current federal legal and programmatic landscape, and potential next steps that
Federal agencies can take, as part of a whole-of-government approach, to support communities
contemplating relocation.
Training
3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 3 – Planning for Inundation
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 3 – Planning for Inundation was held on Wednesday, December 11th from 10 AM-12 PM. Participants heard from communities and regional entities that are using or considering different aspects of planning for inundation, including buyout programs, land use policies, and community perspectives on retreat/relocation.
Training
3rd Annual SRC Workshop: Session 3 – Planning for Inundation
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 3 – Planning for Inundation was held on Wednesday, December 11th from 10 AM-12 PM. Participants heard from communities and regional entities that are using or considering different aspects of planning for inundation, including buyout programs, land use policies, and community perspectives on retreat/relocation.
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.
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.
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!
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!
$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.
Funds may support the: (1) spreading of local Equitable Climate Action and/or Green Stormwater Infrastructure practices; and (2) advancing of opportunities for local government, frontline communities, and place-based funders to build trusting partnerships and develop projects together. Each community partnership must signal its collective priorities and collaborative approaches in the application.
$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.
$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.
This grant program funds projects aimed at addressing the following Congressionally-set priorities: • Loss of key habitats resulting in significant impacts on fisheries and water quality such as seagrass, mangroves, tidal and freshwater wetlands, forested wetlands, kelp beds, shellfish beds, and coral reefs; • Coastal resilience and extreme weather events including flooding and coastal erosion related to sea level rise, changing precipitation, warmer waters, or salt marsh, seagrass, or wetland degradation or loss and accelerated land loss; • Impacts of nutrients and warmer water temperatures on aquatic life and ecosystems, including low dissolved oxygen conditions in estuarine waters; • Stormwater runoff which not only can erode stream banks but can carry nutrients, sediment, and trash into rivers and streams that flow into estuaries; • Recurring harmful algae blooms; • Unusual or unexplained marine mammal mortalities; and • Proliferation or invasion of species that limit recreational uses, threaten wastewater systems, or cause other ecosystem damage.
$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.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Connecticut Housing Data Hub
The Connecticut Housing Data Hub provides users the ability to explore several categories of state- and town-wide housing data over time. Available data on the dashboard includes permitting, housing stock, rent burden, and housing programs.
Mapper
Level of Effort:
Connecticut Housing Data Hub
The Connecticut Housing Data Hub provides users the ability to explore several categories of state- and town-wide housing data over time. Available data on the dashboard includes permitting, housing stock, rent burden, and housing programs.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!