Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $1.8 million in grants to support 28 not-for-profit organizations involved with stewardship of state parks, trails, historic sites and public lands, the highest amount awarded in the Park and Trail Partnership Grants program history. The grants support partner group efforts to raise private funds for capital projects, engage in maintenance and beautification projects, provide educational programming, and host special events that promote public use of the parks.
We are proud to support the work of the incredible grassroots partner organizations that elevates the stewardship and programming of our state parks, historic sites, trails and public lands,” Governor Hochul said. “With the largest investment in the Park and Trail Partnership Grants program history, New York State is sending a message that we are deeply committed to protecting and funding our public lands as we continue to embark on nation-leading climate resiliency initiatives.”
The Park and Trail Partnership Grants program is funded through the state Environmental Protection Fund. Grants are administered in partnership with the not-for-profit advocacy group Parks & Trails New York. This eighth round of awards will be matched by over $625,000 in private funds. Recipients must raise outside funding of at least 10 percent of the grant amount received.
In Western New York, grants totaling $275,000 were announced.
- Artpark & Company, Inc. ($100,000) to hire a Director of Education, Interpretation, and Accessibility who will organize year-round educational and outreach activities, establish new programming, and partner with NYS Parks on environmental education and outreach.
- Chautauqua County Equestrian Trail System ($68,000) to develop a multi-year strategic plan focusing on marketing, fundraising, and volunteer support to broaden the diversity of trail users and expand and strengthen partnerships.
- Friends of Knox Farm State Park ($75,000) to renovate the Mansion Summer Estate–a unique wedding and events venue managed by The Friends.
- Friends of Reinstein Nature Preserve ($10,581) to build an enclosure that will protect and establish the native forest as well as to improve public access and education related to forest ecosystems.
- IMPACT: Friends Improving Allegany County Trails ($7,396) to replace a 30-foot bridge to be built in partnership with Alfred State College and the DEC, and to install two trail counters for data collection on nearby trails.
- Old Fort Niagara Association ($12,103) to create a rest stop for cyclists on the Niagara Greenway bike trail in Old Fort Niagara State Park.
