New York Offers $1.35M to Protect Private Forests

State grants aim to conserve land and meet '30x30' environmental goals

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:51am

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The New York Department of Environmental Conservation has announced $1.35 million in new funding through its Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts program. Eligible land trusts can apply for grants up to $350,000 to purchase conservation easements that prevent development and preserve environmental benefits on privately owned forested properties across the state.

Why it matters

This funding supports New York's broader '30x30' conservation goal 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. Protecting private forests helps maintain wildlife habitats, water quality, and climate resilience.

The details

The grants require a 25% match from applicants and are provided through the state's Environmental Protection Fund, which remains at $425 million in the current budget. Applications for the competitive grants are due by August 13, 2026.

  • The new $1.35 million in funding was announced on April 4, 2026.
  • Applications for the grants are due by August 13, 2026.

The players

New York Department of Environmental Conservation

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting New York's natural resources, including forests, wildlife, and water quality.

Accredited land trusts

Non-profit organizations that work to conserve and protect land, including private forests, through methods such as conservation easements.

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What’s next

Eligible land trusts have until August 13, 2026 to submit applications for the competitive grants.

The takeaway

This new funding from New York's Department of Environmental Conservation demonstrates the state's commitment to protecting private forests and meeting its ambitious '30x30' conservation goals, which will help preserve critical wildlife habitats, water resources, and climate resilience across the state.