New York is putting more money on the table to keep forests from being developed, with state officials announcing a new round of funding aimed at conserving privately owned land.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation said $1.35 million is now available through its Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts program, allowing eligible organizations to secure long-term protections on forested properties.
Accredited land trusts can apply for grants of up to $350,000, with a required 25% match, to purchase conservation easements that prevent future development while preserving environmental benefits like wildlife habitat, water quality, and climate resilience.
State officials said the funding supports New York’s broader “30×30” conservation goal, which aims to protect 30% of land and water resources by 2030, while also aligning with statewide environmental plans focused on open space, wildlife, and forest management.
Applications for the competitive grants are due by Aug. 13, with funding provided through the state’s Environmental Protection Fund, which remains at $425 million in the current budget.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].