Good news! For FY 2017-2018, Governor Cuomo’s proposed budget once again designates $300 million for the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), including $1 million for urban forestry for the second year in a row. This will ensure another round of EPF/cost-share grants either later this year or in 2018.

NYS Urban Forestry Program Coordinator Mary Kramarchyk says, “These grants help large and small communities plant and maintain trees. Trees provide myriad ecological and economic benefits in addition to the aesthetic benefits most of us are aware of. Among these, trees sequester carbon, aid grey infrastructure in stormwater mitigation, and enhance the economic vitality of our downtown areas.”

EPF chart

Governor Cuomo’s recommended allocation to EPF. Add 000 to each figure.