Private forest landowners across New York can now apply for millions in new funding aimed at growing healthier, more resilient forests.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation announced a fifth round of Regenerate NY Forestry Cost Share Grants, making more than $5 million available to support forest expansion, restoration, and improvement projects.
The grant program offers financial assistance to private landowners working to establish new forests, restore damaged woodlands, or improve forest health. Projects may address issues such as invasive pests, deer browse, overcrowded tree growth, or fragmented forest land.
Eligible applicants can request between $10,000 and $1 million. Individuals, trusts, and for-profit entities that own between five and 2,500 acres of undeveloped land may apply. Nonprofits and Tribal Nations with at least five acres are also eligible and are not subject to the acreage cap.
DEC officials said private landowners control about 75 percent of New York’s forestland, making their participation critical to meeting statewide climate and conservation goals. Trees planted through funded projects will count toward Gov. Kathy Hochul’s goal of planting 25 million trees by 2033.
Projects must cover at least five acres and be guided by a professional forester or natural resource expert. All funded work must be completed by Dec. 15, 2029.
DEC will reserve some funding until March 11 for priority applicants, including new forest landowners, veterans, active-duty service members, and recognized Tribes. Priority projects include large-scale tree planting and forest restoration heavily impacted by pests or disease.
The agency plans to host an informational webinar on Feb. 3 to walk potential applicants through the program. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 27 and must be submitted through the state’s online grant system.
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