New York State recently announced that $25 million is now available through the first round of the Bond Act-funded Open Space Conservation Grant Program.
This program will support land acquisition projects in New York State that protect the environment and preserve biodiversity, while also increasing equitable access to open space.
Municipalities, not-for-profits, and Indian Nations or Tribes may submit bids for a minimum of $50,000 up to a maximum of $3,500,000 for land acquisition. No match is required. Awarded applicants will receive the grant funding in installments as they complete specific stages of the land acquisition process.
Expenses eligible for funding include, but are not limited to, the title report, appraisal, survey and boundary marking, environmental assessment, purchase price of the land, some legal fees, and some post-closing site preparation costs.
Projects must align with the New York State Open Space Land Conservation Plan goals. Projects must also align with the definition of an “open space land conservation project” stated in the Bond Act, ECL 58-0101 {10}.
Applications are due by 3 pm on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. All grant applicants must register in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) for grants before applying, and not-for-profit applicants must pre-qualify in SFS.
Visit New York’s Grant Opportunities website to learn how to prequalify, register, and apply for grants through SFS.
DEC is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, December 3 at 1 pm to provide information about the overall program, application requirements, funding details, and how to use SFS.
To register for the webinar or find more details about the Open Space Conservation Grant Program, visit DEC’s website.
Photo of the Adirondacks provided by DEC.
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