For Release: Tuesday, October 17, 2006
DEC Extends Deadlines for Grant Applications to October 31, 2006
Extra Time Granted for WQIP, Urban Forestry Applications Because of Buffalo-Area Storm
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the extension of grant application deadlines for the Water Quality Improvement Projects (WQIPs) and Urban Forestry programs until October 31, 2006. The extension is being made to help accommodate those impacted by the recent snowstorm and State of Emergency in Western New York.
Municipalities, soil and water conservation districts, and not-for-profit corporations are eligible to apply for WQIP funding. Statewide, the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) will provide $5.5 million for nonagricultural nonpoint source abatement and control projects and $7 million for a share of costs for wastewater treatment improvement projects undertaken by municipalities to upgrade municipal systems to meet stormwater discharge requirements. In addition, the EPF will support aquatic habitat restoration projects undertaken by municipalities and not-for-profit corporations. Further information about this funding can be found on the DEC website.
The Urban Forestry Grants will support local community tree planting projects in urban neighborhoods and parks to promote energy savings, habitat creation, increased property values, and improved quality of life for New York's urban residents. A total of $300,000 in tree planting grants is available to municipalities, public benefit corporations, public authorities, school districts and not-for-profit organizations that have a public ownership interest in the property or are acting on behalf of a public property owner. Funds are made available from the EPF and will be managed and awarded by DEC. Communities may request between $2,500 and $20,000 per proposal depending upon municipal population. Grants are intended to have a lasting impact on neighborhoods, especially where there is a need for increased tree cover. Further information about this funding can be found on the DEC website.
The extensions apply to applicants Statewide. Applications must be postmarked no later than October 31, 2006 to be considered for funding. The previous deadline had been October 20, 2006.
