Open Space Conservation Grant Program

The Open Space Conservation Grant program, administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), aims to support strategic land acquisitions that promote environmental sustainability and community resilience. This initiative is funded through the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 alongside the Environmental Protection Fund, highlighting the state’s robust commitment to environmental protection and equitable public access to natural resources. The program supports projects that enhance ecosystem diversity, mitigate climate change impacts, protect water and air quality, and foster inclusive recreational opportunities. This grant prioritizes conservation projects that strengthen climate adaptation and resilience, particularly through the preservation of open spaces that offer habitat connectivity, buffer storm impacts, reduce urban heat through forest protection, and safeguard water quality. All projects must align with the New York State Open Space Conservation Plan and help advance the state's 30x30 conservation goals—preserving 30% of lands and waters by 2030. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, and Indian Nations or Tribes. Eligible projects must involve the acquisition of land that possesses defined conservation or recreational value. Examples of eligible project types include those that protect drinking water sources, provide flood mitigation, constitute floodplains, offer scenic or habitat value, ensure habitat connectivity, or create community gardens in urban areas. The grant covers direct purchase costs and necessary due diligence such as appraisals, environmental assessments, surveys, and title searches. Site improvements to enhance recreational access are also eligible, though broader stewardship and defense costs are generally not allowed, except for conservation defense insurance for land trusts. The total funding available is $25 million. Individual grants range from a minimum of $50,000 to a maximum of $3.5 million. There is no match requirement, making this a financially accessible opportunity for many organizations. Applications must be submitted through the New York State SFS Grants Management System. Comprehensive application instructions, training videos, and user manuals are available via the portal. First-time users must establish an account, and early submission is strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute technical issues. The application deadline is February 18, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. A virtual information session for prospective applicants will be held on December 3, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. to provide an overview of the program and guidance on how to navigate the SFS system. All inquiries about the grant program should be directed to the Division of Lands and Forests at dlfgrants@dec.ny.gov. As this is a recurring program funded by long-term state initiatives, prospective applicants should monitor the program site for future cycles and updates.

Submit early to avoid rejection; ensure properties match at least one of the seven resource criteria; align with NY Open Space Plan; use provided training resources.