New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation is offering $1 million in grants to help municipalities protect open spaces and expand community-owned forests.
Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the funding on June 20 as part of the state’s third round of the Community Forest Conservation Grant Program. The effort supports local forest conservation while contributing to the state’s broader climate and land protection goals.
“Keeping forests as forests is a cornerstone of DEC’s strategy to support working landscapes and help communities safeguard critical natural resources,” Lefton said. “Through programs like the State’s Community Forest Conservation grants, New York is supporting smart, locally driven investments that deliver environmental, economic, and public health benefits.”
Municipalities may apply for grants ranging from $50,000 to $300,000. The funds can be used to purchase land or conservation easements for properties that are at least 10 contiguous acres and 75 percent forested. Eligible expenses include appraisals, environmental assessments, and boundary surveys.
Applications are due by Sept. 17. An informational webinar is scheduled for June 25 at 10 a.m.
The grant program also helps advance New York’s “30×30” conservation target—preserving 30 percent of state lands and waters by 2030—and supports Governor Hochul’s initiative to plant 25 million trees by 2033. According to DEC, sustainably managed forests promote biodiversity, absorb carbon, provide educational opportunities, and support local economies.
The funding comes from the state’s Environmental Protection Fund, which was increased to a record $425 million in the current budget.
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