News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Maureen Wren, 518-402-8000

DEC Announces Availability Of Hudson River Estuary Grants

Deadline to Apply is June 27

ALBANY, NY (04/17/2008; 1302)(readMedia)-- Applications are now being accepted for the newest round of Hudson River Estuary Program grants, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today. Approximately $1 million is available to help support projects that protect and enhance estuary resources, increase public awareness, and provide access to the Hudson, among other restoration goals.

“Revitalizing this magnificent waterway and its watershed benefits all New Yorkers,” Commissioner Grannis said. “DEC’s grants are especially well-timed for projects to commemorate the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial in 2009. The grant process offers opportunities for local municipalities and not-for-profit organizations to partner with the state to promote and further develop the restoration goals for the Hudson River and its watershed.”

Now in its tenth year, the Estuary Grant Program implements priorities outlined in DEC’s Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda to clean and protect the Hudson River and its watershed, while increasing public access, conserving vital natural resources, improving educational programs, and protecting open space along the entire estuary. This year, grants will be focused on projects helping to prepare for the 2009 Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial celebration.

Municipalities and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply for projects located within the geographic boundaries of the Hudson River Estuary watershed. More information is available on the DEC website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5091.html . Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 will be awarded among the following eligible funding categories:

• Community Interpretive Centers and Education;

• Open Space Planning and Acquisition;

• Community-based Habitat Conservation and Stewardship;

• Watershed Planning and Implementation; and

• Hudson River Access.

The grant application deadline is June 27, 2008. Copies of the application are available on the website or by calling the Hudson River Estuary Program office at 845-256-3016.

-30-