DEC Announces $1.8 Million in Conservation Grants

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced over a million dollars in grants to land trusts in an effort to boost tourism, help with farmland protection and to provide more public access for recreation.

The $1.8 million in grants will be awarded to 55 nonprofit land trusts across New York State. The Mid-Hudson Valley will see a healthy amount head our way, 21 grants totaling $480,550.

The announcement comes as the state celebrates Earth Week. What officials say is a week long celebration that recognizes New York's commitment to protecting the environment, conserving open space and the sates vast natural resources.

"Land trusts continue to make a difference in local communities, maximizing public and private dollars to protect and preserve our state's natural resources for generations to come," said Acting Commissioner Basil Seggos. "Through partnerships like these, the Environmental Protection Fund provides critical support for many environmental and open space programs, generating revenue, creating jobs, and ensuring a cleaner and healthier New York."

The grants are funded through the Environmental Protection Fund. In addition to the Mid-Hudson Valley other near by areas also received several grants. The Capital District received 20 awards totaling $553,400 and New York City received 3 awards totaling $98,000.