NEW YORK STATE — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced $1.35 million is now available through the fourth round of the Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts (FCELT) Grant Program to help conserve the benefits of forests, including erosion and flood control, wildlife habitat, water and air filtration, and climate change mitigation. Eligible accredited land trusts may apply for up to $350,000 to purchase conservation easements on privately owned forested land in New York State for the purpose of protecting these lands from future development.

“The land trust community plays a vital role in protecting New York’s invaluable natural resources,” DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “We are proud to continue this this successful public-private partnership with the Land Trust Alliance and New York’s land trusts. Together we will continue to protect New York’s privately owned forests, safeguard clean water and air resources, and bolster the benefits of these investments, including forest products, carbon storage, and open space.” 

The grants are administered by the Land Trust Alliance (LTA) in coordination with DEC. A 25 percent match is required. To apply, a land trust must be accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission and submit an overview of their proposed project by May 9, as part of the pre-application process. DEC and LTA will notify selected applicants by June 13; full applications for selected projects are due by July 28.