NEWYORK: Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $10 million in funding is now available to support urban and community forestry management projects for enhanced environmental quality, increased tree health and diversity, and climate mitigation.
The grant opportunity is available to municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, Indian Nations and Tribes, and other community-based organizations through the State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program.
“We recognize how essential urban and community forests are to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods,” Governor Hochul said.
“With this latest $10 million investment, our State is empowering communities with the tools to better understand, manage, and grow their tree resources to build stronger, more resilient neighborhoods and deliver on our commitment to environmental justice for all New Yorkers.”
Since 2021, New York committed more than $116.5 million to tree and forest-related projects, including $41 million to urban and community forests, $61 million for tree nurseries and forest-based markets, and $7.5 million for forest health and reforestation.
Funding is primarily awarded through the State’s Environmental Protection Fund. New York also saw an influx of federal funding into urban forestry during this time, with an additional $73.5 million granted directly to non-governmental organizations and local governments through the Inflation Reduction Act under the Biden Administration.
“Today’s $10 million opportunity underscores Governor Hochul and DEC’s ongoing commitment to protecting and expanding the State’s urban tree canopy and celebrating the vital role trees play in our communities. Tree inventories are a critical first step in building healthier, more resilient urban forests. By supporting the use of new technology and assessment methods, this round of funding will help communities make data-driven decisions to support resiliency and maximize the benefits of their green infrastructure,” said New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton.
There is no match requirement for this grant. Applicants may apply for a minimum of $50,000 up to a maximum of $2.5 million. All projects must take place on public property, private land open to the public, or federally and State recognized Tribal reservation land.
