The Peconic Land Trust has been awarded a $45,000 grant through New York’s Conservation Partnership Program, which will be used to protect farmland, wildlife habitats, and water quality on Long Island’s East End, according to Assemblyman Fred Thiele Jr.’s office.
“This is one of the few places where the environment and the economy are not at odds. They are symbiotic,” Mr. Thiele said. “It’s also the tradition of life here. It’s what makes this place special.”
The nonprofit—one of 51 awarded a grant throughout the state Department of Environmental Conservation—will also use the funding to increase the public’s access to outdoor recreational opportunities, and conserve open space areas.
“Land conservation is an essential tool that provides immeasurable environmental and economic benefits for New Yorkers and visitors alike,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a statement.
The Land Trust Alliance administers the Conservation Partnership Program in coordination with the Department of Conservation. The state and local government partnership program has reached its 15-year milestone supporting efforts that protect and conserve land.
“This partnership enables land trusts and local communities to tap the enormous potential of the land to address societal challenges and positions New York as a national leader in demonstrating the relevance of land conservation to all Americans,” said Andrew Bowman, the president of the Land Trust Alliance, in a statement.
New York’s Environmental Protection Fund will also leverage an additional $2.3 million to support environmental projects that are vital for community health, tourism and regional economic development through 70 grants statewide.
In 15 years, the Conservation Partnership Program has awarded more than 820 grants totaling $17.2 million. This year’s state budget includes $300 million for environmental funding.
on May 11, 2018