May 2019
Barnabas McHenry, Chairman Greenway Council, Co-Chair National Heritage Area
Kevin M. Burke, Chairman, Greenway Conservancy for the Hudson River Valley,
Co-Chair National Heritage Area
Scott Keller, Acting Executive Director Greenway,
Acting Director National Heritage Area 
Monthly News, Events, & Grant
Opportunities
Tower of Victory's Revival Celebration
In 1950, a hurricane damaged the 132-year old monument on the grounds of Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site . The monument serves as a memorial to General George Washington and to the end of the Revolutionary War. Six years ago, Barney McHenry, Chairman of the Hudson River Valley Greenway Communities Council Board; and Congressman Maurice Hinchey began a campaign to raise the funds to rehabilitate the tower. In 2018, the initiative received a NYS Historic Preservation Award. On April 27th, a celebration was held for the grand re-opening of the tower with a ribbon-cutting, musket firing, and a gathering of the community and historic preservationists. Now visitors can once again climb the 53-ft-tall Tower of Victory and take in the astonishing view of the Hudson River. Read more about Tower of Victory's revival celebration at the Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site.
Bicentennial Celebration of Washington Irving's The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent .
Washington Irving's American folktales found in  The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent ., include iconic short stories and essays. This collection famously contains “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle,” two stories that romanticize colonial life on the Hudson River. Irving’s influence is still felt today and goes far beyond his “Legend.” The Villages of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, as well as partners will be hosting events throughout the area to cele brate Irving’s cultural and artistic legacy in a Bicentennial celebration to engage the public for the years 2019 and 2020. “The Historical Society recognized that the 200th an­niver­sary was al­most upon us, and we wanted to do some­thing ‘leg­endary’ to mark the mile­stone,” said Sara Mas­cia, Ex­ec­u­tive Di­rec­tor. From there the The Leg­end Turns 200 – Irv­ing’s Im­mor­tal Tale themed Bicentennial celebration was created. To kick-off the celebration will be the Sleepy Hollow Lit Fest on May 18, 2019 . To find more about The Leg­end Turns 200 – Irv­ing’s Im­mor­tal Tale check out the calendar on headlesshorseman.org . Read more .
Hudson River National Heritage Area is Now Accepting Requests for Rack Cards and Posters for the Hudson River Train Tour App
Does your organization have an open public space for rack cards and posters? The Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area is now accepting requests for rack cards and posters to market the Hudson River Train Tour App . Created by the Hudson River Valley Greenway and National Heritage Area, OnCell, and partnered with the National Park Service t he mobile app introduces you to the wonders of the Hudson Valley along your train ride between New York City and Albany. From castles, to lighthouses, mansions, and more you’ll see countless fascinating sites along your ride. Help the public discover what’s out that train window…and beyond by emailing us at hrvg@hudsongreenway.ny.gov or calling us at (518) 473-3835.
Regional Economic Development Council Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) Now Open
In 2011, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo created ten Regional Economic Development Councils (REDC) and the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) to advance the administration’s efforts to improve New York’s business climate and expand economic growth. Below are available CFA grant opportunities from our partners:

  1. DEC's CFA Grants:
2, OPRHP's CFA Grants:

The deadline for the 2019 round is 4:00 p.m. on July 26, 2019 . Find out more .
Two Workshops Left for the Harnessing the Power of Stories Workshop Series
The Greater Hudson Heritage Network (GHHN) has two workshops left for its Harnessing the Power of Stories Workshop Series. The workshops are intended to provide training in storytelling and theatrical techniques as well as first/third person living history interpretation. Remaining workshops include:

  • Connecting Collections and Audience: The Theater-Artists' Approach to Telling the Story of the Objects in the Collection with Sean McNall on June 25, 2019.

  • Make History Live! Character Development with Kandie Carle on July 23, 2019.

Full-day workshops include a light breakfast, lunch, afternoon coffee break, and reference materials. Webinars will follow for each workshop.  Learn more .
DEC Announces Acquisition of Two Columbia County Parcels Totaling 1,114 Acres
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the state's acquisition of two properties in Columbia County totaling 1,114 acres. DEC completed the purchase of 590 acres along the Hudson River in the town of Stockport, and 524 acres in the town of New Lebanon, doubling the size of the Hand Hollow State Forest, for a total of $6.7 million. The acquisitions will preserve critical open space, protect the region's watershed, and expand recreational opportunities that support the local economy. The announcements were made at an event in Columbia County as part of the State's week long celebration of Earth Day. Read more .
Ships vs. Boats – How Close is Too Close?
When it comes to recreational boats and commercial ship traffic, separation is key. Some boaters, however, may not recognize the dangers of navigating close to a commercial ship. Two 30-second videos captured by a pilot at the helm of 600-plus-foot commercial vessels navigating on New York’s Hudson River are aimed at educating recreational boaters on this risk and improving recreational boat safety.
In one of the videos, a recreational boat and personal watercraft cross directly under the bow of a 623-foot bulk carrier underway near the waterway’s Bear Mountain Bridge, then disappear out of view from the ship’s helm for more than 7 seconds – plenty of time to put the boaters and their passengers at risk.

For more info on safe boat operation and ships, go to BoatUS.org/rulesoftheroad .
Path Through History Weekend!
On the weekend of  June 15-16 , New York will celebrate the first of two Path Through History Weekends in 2019. Events will take place throughout New York State. In 2012, Governor Cuomo unveiled the statewide " Path Through History ," initiative that links historically and culturally significant sites, locations and events throughout New York State. This effort to highlight our rich heritage aims to not only showcase the state's history and cultural significance, but also promote tourism and economic development in communities across the state. Events taking place throughout the Hudson Valley during both Path Through History Weekends on June 15-16 and October 12-14 are listed  here .
Upcoming Events

Family Fishing Clinic, Norrie Point Environmental Center, Staatsburgh, NY
May 4: Want to try your hand at fishing in the Hudson? All equipment is provided—no license required! Angling is wheelchair accessible and adaptive fishing rods are available. This program is sponsored by DEC's  I Fish NY . Learn more .

Jay Walking with the Bedford Audubon, John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, Katonah, NY
May 4: Join Bedford Audubon naturalist Tait Johansson to look for early spring migrating birds. Meet at the main parking lot. More details .

Outdoor Art Workshop Series, Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Catskill, NY
May 4, 11, 25: Children and their families and visitors of all ages are invited to join an afternoon of free painting and drawing in nature. Activities include: Drawing the Catskills , Perspective and Architecture , Pigment Making , Plant Identification and Close Observation , and Understanding Color .  Find out more .

Garden Tours, Untermyer Gardens, Yonkers, NY
May 5, 12, 19, 26: Take a 90 minute guided tour led by either a trained docent or the founder and president of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy to learn the fascinating history and some interesting plant information. Read more .

Hands-in-the-Dirt Workshop, Beatrix Farrand Garden, Hyde Park, NY
May 7: H aving the right tool for the right task is crucial in doing the hard work of gardening. Even the best tools need yearly upkeep, so we’ll talk about selecting and maintaining your favorite shovels, trowels, and pruners. Good sterilization practice will also be discussed! Discover more .

Hudson River Environmental Society 2019 Hudson River Symposium, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY
May 8: Climate change and sea-level rise present significant challenges for natural resource resiliency and management of the Hudson River estuarine ecosystem. This symposium will present current research and management options. The day will conclude with a contributed poster reception presenting a vast array of research and monitoring programs and results in the Hudson River Watershed. More details .

Spring Overlook Hike, Moreau Lake State Park, Gansevoort, NY
May 9: A park educator will lead as we hike along this steep but short hike up to the Spring Overlook. This almost mile long trek one way is one of the favorites at the park. Once at the top you will see a beautiful view of the Hudson River.  Learn more .

Teatown PlantFest: First Pick in Ossining, Teatown Lake Reservation, Ossining, NY
May 10: Come to the opening night PlantFest festivities at Teatown Lake Reservation! Whether you are a serious gardener or an eager first-timer, this is a plant sale with farmers market appeal. Find out more .

Invasive Plants Program and Workday, John B. Staalesen Vanderheyden Preserve, Troy, NY
May 11: Learn how to identify, report, and remove invasive species right here in Troy! The native plants of one the largest open spaces in Troy need our help by cutting bittersweet vines and pulling other invasives. More info .

Guided Hike at Gobbler's Knob State Forest, Otisville, NY
May 11: The Bashakill Area Association and the Trail Conference are partnering to host a ~2 mile roundtrip hike on the Long Path and Shawangunk Ridge Trail at Gobbler's Knob State Forest. Enjoy views of Spring greening from the top, view stone work by the Long Distance Trail Crew and learn of the ongoing conservation work accomplished by both these organizations. Read more .

Colonial Flax Processing, Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, Fort Montgomery, NY
May 11: Using antique tools, discover how flax was processed into linen thread during the colonial era. See a flax break, scotching knife, heckles and spinning wheel in action! Learn more .

Albany Tulip Festival, Washington Park, Albany, NY
May 11-12: The Tulip Festival is Albany’s signature spring event. Featuring annual traditions rooted in the city’s rich Dutch heritage, nearly one hundred artisans selling their handmade crafts, a fine arts show, delicious food, the KidZone family fun destination, two stages of world-class live entertainment and more than 140,000 tulips in 150 different varieties, the Tulip Festival is a sparkling showcase of local culture and business. It all takes place in historic Washington Park, the 81-acre “crown jewel” of the City. Find out more .

In Frederic Church’s Ombra: Architecture in Conversation with Nature, Olana State Historic Site, Hudson, NY
May 12: Olana’s 2019 exhibition will showcase multimedia design concepts and installations, developed by leading architects and select artists. As Guest Curator, Barry Bergdoll invited a group of today’s most exploratory architects to respond to the transitional outdoor rooms at Olana that are so essential to the original 19th century design of Olana’s Main House.  More details .

Hudson Valley Natural Resource Mapper Webinar
May 15: The DEC's Natural Resource Mapper is an online, interactive tool with over 30 geographic data sets identifying important habitats and water resources, as well as scenic and recreation areas in the Hudson River estuary watershed. The webinar will introduce participants to the mapper layout, functions, and data layers and provide examples of applications for local conservation, land use, and watershed planning.   Register now.

Sustainable Travel Geotourism Initiative, Mizzentop Day School, Pawling, NY
May 16: Learn about the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Geotourism initiative, how Harlem Valley communities can take advantage of the growing outdoor recreation economy, the building of the Harlem Valley’s synergy of outdoor recreation, and more. Find out more .

The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative , Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, NY
May 17: Florence Williams investigates the science behind nature's positive effects on the brain. " The Nature Fix " is Florence Williams' latest book. She is a journalist and contributing editor to  Outside  magazine. Register .

Collectors Tour, Manitoga/Russel Wright Design Center, Garrison, NY
May 18: Enjoy a late afternoon tour of the House, Studio and Woodland Garden with a special focus on the relationship between Russel Wright’s industrial design work and the architecture and landscape of Manitoga. Read more .

The Nourished Woman Retreat, Sheldrake Environmental Center, Larchmont, NY
May 18: Commit to an afternoon of nourishment and self-care. Savor the beauty of spring, while boosting your immunity and improving your mood.  The 4-hour retreat will include a guided mindful forest walk and nature meditation, Nature Journaling, Sound Healing, Yoga.  Learn more .

Lecture: Shirts Powdered Red: Dutch-Haudenosaunee Trade in the 17th and 18th Centuries, Clermont State Historic Site, Germantown, NY
May 18: Clothing carries many meanings, and in early Dutch-Haudenosaunee trade it communicated messages about race, piety, diplomacy, education, resistance, and community. Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) people sought out trade with Dutch settlers for many reasons which shaped early intercultural interactions. This lecture will be presented by Maeve Kane, Assistant Professor of History at SUNY Albany.  More info .

Yonkers Arts Weekend, Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, Yonkers, NY
May 19: As part of Yonkers Arts Weekend, the Manor Hall will be open for this special Sunday! Come take in the latest art installation in the Community Gallery! Self-guided tours will be available at regular museum rates! Read more .

A Life in Service Theme Tour, Staatsburgh State Historic Site, Staatsburg, NY
May 19: It took a small army to run Staatsburgh. On this tour, you'll see the mansion through the servants' eyes, as they rose before dawn and toiled until after midnight. More details .

After the Big One: Navigating Disaster Recovery for Cultural Institutions, University at Albany, Albany, NY
May 21: Partnering organizations will share real-life experiences recovering from large-scale events, what happened, and what they learned. Their goal is to help make your emergency plans more meaningful and effective when the aftermath demands more than available expertise and resources. Get involved . 

Restoring the Croton Point Landfill Grasslands, Croton Free Library, Croton-on-Hudson, NY
May 23: Larry Weaner Landscape Associates is the designer of the restoration plan for the Croton Point Park landfill grasslands: a plan designed to increase native plants and improve bird habitat on the landfill while reducing the number of invasive plant species. Come hear Larry Weaner and Jenna Webster describe how the restoration plan was developed and the timeline for this exciting and innovative project. More info .

Unveiling of the Henry Knox Cannon Trail Re-dedication, Albany Riverfront Park, Albany, NY
May 23: At 11am, will be the unveiling of the Henry Knox Cannon Trail monument and interpretive panel. Henry Knox, a French general who literally traveled the extra mile for George Washington and the Revolutionary cause. Thanks to Knox’s extraordinary expedition to retrieve artillery pieces, Washington succeeded in driving a British army from Boston at the beginning of the American Revolution. Discover the history .

Raptors & Reptiles, Taconic State Park, Copake Falls, NY
May 25: Raptors & Reptiles with Brian Robinson. Free to the public. Find out more .

Pond Study, Sterling Forest State Park, Tuxedo, NY
May 25: Ever wonder what types of creatures call your local pond home? Or what kinds of creepy crawlies live in the muck at the bottom of a lake? Join us at Sterling Forest for a pond study to learn more about these animals, and wonder no more. Discover more .

Illuminate The Walkway: Memorial Day Flag Changing Ceremony + Walkway at Night, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, Highland, NY
May 26: Luminaries will line the Walkway as veterans, honor guards, elected officials, and the public make their way to the Center Overlook for a flag changing ceremony at dusk. following the ceremony, the public is invited to remain on the Walkway for Walkway at Night. More info .

Croton Reservoir & Dam Hike, Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park , Dobbs Ferry, NY
May 26: Easy 2-mile (total) hike north along the Aqueduct and atop the beautiful Croton Dam. Read more .

18th Century Graveside Ceremony, New Windsor Cantonment, New Windsor, NY
May 27: Beginning at 1:30 pm Revolutionary War soldiers stand vigil at the coffin of Colonel Francis Barber and then at 2:00 pm perform a graveside mourning ceremony. A cannon firing and military demonstration follows the ceremony. Free admission. Learn more .

Memorial Day Sand Sculpture Contest, Grafton Lakes State Park, Grafton, NY
May 27: Who will bring their best “grain game” to the beach this year? Register at 12pm by the Lifeguard Station at Long Pond Beach. Must provide your own tools and props. Judging at 2pm, awards at 3pm. Free to enter, prizes for all! More details .

Herbal Workshop Series: Herbal First Aid, Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Poughkeepsie, NY
May 28: Make your own natural first aid kit for life’s little accidents and discomforts. Learn how to make compresses and poultices. Learn ancient techniques of plant medicine making with PFP herbalist Beatrix Clarke. Make your own home remedies. Get involved .
Heritage Spotlight:Tower of Victory at the Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
After nearly 70 years this past month the Tower of Victory at Washington's Headqu arters State Historic Site finally had its roof and observation level back in operation. April 27th was the grand re-opening of the Tower of Victory. Following the ribbon cutting, the public was welcomed to climb the Tower of Victory to the newly restored belvedere, and take in the best views of the Hudson River and the Highlands. Originally constructed between 1883 and 1887 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the peaceful end of the Revolutionary War, the Tower was built at the site where Washington was headquartered the longest during the Revolution. The original roof was damaged by a hurricane and removed, closing off access to the rooftop viewing platform that provided amazing views of the Hudson River.  Visit Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site and check out the Tower of Victory.
Project Spotlight: John Burroughs Black Creek Trail Environmental Survey
The Town of Esopus in partnership with Scenic Hudson and the John Burroughs Association was awarded a Community Planning Grant to complete the John Burroughs Black Creek Trail Environmental Survey. The purpose of the environmental survey was to identify significant natural resources and sensitive areas that must be protected if the land is opened up for broader use.The environmental survey was a necessary step in the implementation process of the John Burroughs Black Creek Trail Plan. The primary goal of the John Burroughs Black Creek Trail Plan is to create a continuous multi-modal trail through the Black Creek corridor. The trail will make use of the high concentration of existing conserved properties and public right of ways. A combination of bicycle, paddling and hiking trails will physically and thematically connect conserved lands into a unified regional conservation and recreation corridor centered on the legacy of John Burroughs. Read the John Burroughs Black Creek Trail Plan .
Green Tip of the Month: Don't Kill That Spider!
There are an estimated 40,000 species of spiders, and they all eat insects. They're an important part of the food web and provide natural pest control. Learn more .
Grant and Funding Opportunities

Heritage Development Grants
The Hudson River Valley Greenway and the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area (HRVNHA) are pleased to announce the availability of $55,000 in matching grants through the 2019 Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area Heritage Development Grant Program.This annual grant program offers funding for programming, interpretation, and marketing projects that support the mutual goals of the HRVNHA and applicants. Grants will typically range from $1,000 to $5,000. Grant program guidelines and applications are available on the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area's website. Deadline: May 10, 2019.

Hudson River Valley Greenway Grant Program
Matching grants available for Greenway Communities and Greenway Compact Communities. Deadline: May 10, 2019 . More info .

National Heritage Area Sponsorship's Available
The Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area (HRVNHA) will partner with various organizations to sponsor programs and events that reinforce the Heritage Area’s mission. While complementing the mission of the Heritage Area, cultural, heritage and recreational events deliver significant tourism and economic benefits to communities, and encourage local and regional partnerships. Municipalities and nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations located within the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area are eligible to apply. For more information, please contact Dan Jeanson at daniel.jeanson@hudsongreenway.ny.gov or 518-473-3835.

Teaching the Hudson Valley Explore Awards
These matching grants are intended to create opportunities for students to explore the history, environment, and culture of the Hudson River Valley, connecting their studies to significant places. They encourage students’ appreciation for and stewardship of their communities and cultures, and connect teachers with site educators and place-based learning. Eligible expenses include transportation and admission fees to eligible Hudson Valley locations for school groups. Read more .

PHMSA's Technical Assistance Grant Program
The Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) seeks to provide funding to local communities and non-profit organizations to advance pipeline and hazardous materials (hazmat) transportation safety. Deadline: May 3, 2019 . Learn more.

PHMSA's Community Safety Grant Program
The purpose of this grant is to enhance communities capability to respond to hazardous materials incidents and to assist in ensuring that state and local enforcement personnel are adequately trained in the Hazardous Materials Regulations. PHMSA, through this competitive grant opportunity, is requesting applications from nonprofit organizations to (1) conduct national outreach and training programs to assist communities in preparing for and responding to accidents and incidents involving the transportation of hazardous materials, including Class 3 flammable liquids by rail; and (2) to train state and local personnel responsible for enforcing the safe transportation of hazardous materials, including Class 3 flammable liquids. Eligible Applicants include nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education and n onprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education. Deadline: May 4, 2019 . Find out more .

Historic Transportation Canals Marker Grant Program
The Historic Transportation Canals Marker Grant Program is designed to promote cultural tourism and commemorate the history of transportation canals in the United States. The markers in this program must recognize a historical fact that occurred more than 50 years from the year of your application. Currently, that year is 1969. Canal marker grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions, and municipalities within the United States of America. Deadline for the letter of intent is April 17, 2019 . The application deadline is May 5, 2019 . Read more .

This grant program is for graduate students who are researching topics in sustainable agriculture that will serve the interests of farmers and the greater agricultural community. Deadline: May 7, 2019 . Discover more .

Federal Trransit Administration's Low or No Emission (Low-No) Program
On March 18 2019, the Federal Transit Administration   announced   the availability of FY 2019 Low-No funding. View the   FY2019 Notice of Funding Opportunity . The Low or No Emission Competitive program provides funding to state and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses as well as acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities. Under the FAST Act, $55 million per year is available until fiscal year 2020. Deadline: May 14, 2019 . More details .

2019 Diversity Scholarship Program
The Diversity Scholarship Program supports the attendance of leaders from underrepresented communities new to preservation and of emerging preservation professionals at the National Trust's annual conference,   PastForward . DSP participants receive financial assistance in the form of complimentary registration and lodging at PastForward. Through DSP, more than 2,100 individuals have helped to increase the diversity—racial, ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic—of professionals in preservation, contributing a wide range of perspectives to the conference and enriching the preservation movement. Deadline: May 15, 2019 . Find out more .

Infrastructure and Capacity Building Challenge Grants
The mission of this Challenge Grants program is to strengthen the institutional base of the humanities by enabling infrastructure development and capacity building. Awards aim to help institutions secure long-term support for their core activities and expand efforts to preserve and create access to outstanding humanities materials. Applications are welcome from colleges and universities, museums, public libraries, research institutions, historical societies and historic sites, scholarly associations, state humanities councils, and other public and nonprofit humanities entities. Through these awards organizations can increase their humanities capacity through capital expenditures to support the design, purchase, construction, restoration, or renovation of facilities for humanities activities and the purchase of equipment and software. Eligible activities include the preservation and conservation of humanities materials, and the sustaining of digital infrastructure for the humanities. Deadline: May 15, 2019 . Learn more .

NAGPRA Repatriation Grant
Section 10 of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make grants to museums, Indian tribes, and Native Hawaiian organizations for the purposes of assisting in consultation, documentation, and repatriation of Native American “cultural items,” including human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony. The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number for NAGPRA Grants is 15.922. NAGPRA grants are appropriated by Congress annually as a part of the Department of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Act. Deadline  May 17, 2019 . Read more .

NYS Pollution Prevention Institute 2019 - 2020 Community Grants Program
The New York York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I) is now accepting applications for its Community Grants Program 2019-2020 for pollution prevention outreach and education projects. The grant period will run from October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020. Eligible applicants are able to receive up to $20,000 to fund their project. The deadline for submissions is May 31, 2019 at 5 p.m. EST. Find out more .

Household Water Well System Grants
This program helps qualified nonprofits and tribes create a revolving loan fund to increase access to clean, reliable water for households in eligible rural areas. Deadline: May 27, 2019 . Discover more .

Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Round 4
The FY 2020 Enacted Budget includes $100 million for the fourth round of the transformative Downtown Revitalization Initiative. This successful initiative will support 10 additional downtown neighborhoods, one in each region of the state, boosting local economies and fostering vibrant neighborhoods that offer a higher quality of life. Applications for the fourth round are due by 4 p.m. on May 31, 2019 . More details .

2019 NYSCA/GHHN Conservation Treatment Grant Program
The NYSCA/GHHN Conservation Treatment Grant Program is a partnership of the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) and GHHN that provides support for treatment procedures to aid in stabilizing and preserving objects held in collections of museums, historical, and cultural organizations in New York State. Support is available for conservation treatment of paintings, works on paper (including individual drawings, watercolors, prints or photographs), textiles (including costumes, domestic textiles and upholstery), furniture, frames, sculpture, historical, ethnographic, decorative objects, and more. Deadline: June 3, 2019 . More info .

2019 NYSCA/GHHN Collection Needs Assessment Program
The NYSCA/GHHN Collection Needs Assessment Program is a NYSCA/GHHN Grant partnership program which provides two opportunities for museums across New York State.These include:

  • Site Assessment Program: The grant will support professional services for a collections consultant who will come to your organization for a half-day site visit focusing on a collections related topic. The consultant will discuss various areas of stewardship with the site including identifying your specific collections issues, suggesting and prioritizing basic steps to improve care of your collections. A written report will follow the consultation. Max award of $650.
  • Supplies Program: Applicants who have consulted with an appropriate professional may request funds to purchase collections management supplies. Supplies may include, but are not limited to: storage boxes, acid-free tissue paper, artifact trays, dividers, UV filtering film, Tyvek sheeting, tape, tags, labels, and environmental monitors. Supply requests for archival or library collections will not be supported. Max award $500.

Deadline: June 3, 2019 . Find out more .

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) is pleased to announce the availability of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Project funds for Presidential Declaration: DR-4397: Severe Storms and Flooding. Eligible projects include:

  • Acquisition/Demolition (or Relocation)
  • Structural Elevation Projects
  • Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Planning

Deadline: June 6, 2019 . More details .

Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI)
Qualified private, nonprofit and public including tribal intermediary organizations proposing to carry out financial and technical assistance programs will be eligible to receive the funding. The Intermediary will be required to provide matching funds in an amount at least equal to the RCDI grant. The respective minimum and maximum grant amount per Intermediary is $50,000 and $250,000. The Intermediary must provide a program of financial and technical assistance to recipients to develop their capacity and ability to undertake projects related to housing, community facilities, or community and economic development that will support the community. Deadline: June 10, 2019 . Read more .

Region 2 Wetland Program Development Grant Request for Applications
Wetland Program Development Grants (WPDGs) assist state, tribal, local government (S/T/LG) agencies and interstate/intertribal entities in developing or refining state/tribal/local programs which protect, manage, and restore wetlands. The primary focus of these grants is to develop/refine state and tribal wetland programs. Applications must be submitted electronically through   Grants.gov   by  June 14, 2019 at 11:59 P.M. EDT. Find out more .

DHPSNY Summer 2019 Planning & Assessment Services
Documentary Heritage and Preservation Services for New York (DHPSNY) currently offers Planning & Assessment Services in four major areas. These services are designed to support New York organizations in improving and advancing program efforts while forming strategies for future growth and development. DHPSNY’s Planning & Assessment Services consist of Archival Needs Assessments, Preservation Surveys, Condition Surveys, and Strategic Planning Assistance. In each instance, services aim to improve adherence to best practices and are tailored to an organization’s unique circumstances. Recipients of DHPSNY’s Planning & Assessment Services are selected by a competitive application process. Deadline: July 12, 2019 . Learn more .

Ninth Round of Regional Economic Development Council Competition
Round IX of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative is officially kicking off the 2019 competition for more than $750 million in state economic development resources. The Consolidated Funding Application will open to applicants on May 1, enabling businesses, municipalities, not-for-profits and the public to begin applying for assistance from dozens of state programs, through a single application, for job-creation and community development projects. Regional Council priorities in 2019 include:

  • Supporting community investment in placemaking and downtown revitalization;
  • Supporting the Workforce Development Initiative;
  • Working with local businesses and communities to identify childcare needs and develop potential solutions;
  • Developing an economic and environmental justice strategy for the region; and
  • Tracking the progress of the strategic economic development plan and projects funded through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA).

Deadline: July 26, 2019 . Find out more .

NYSDEC Division of Water's Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program
The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly address documented water quality impairments or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning. Deadline: July 26, 2019 . Learn more .

New York State DEC/EFC Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant (EPG)
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in conjunction with the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC), will offer grants to municipalities to help pay for the initial planning of eligible Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) water quality projects. Up to $3 million has been made available for this round of the Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant (EPG) program. Grants of up to $100,0001 are available to finance engineering and planning services for the production of an engineering report. The ultimate goal of the EPG program is to advance water quality projects to construction so successful applicants can use the engineering report funded by the grant to seek financing through the CWSRF program, Water Quality Improvement Project program, or other funding entities to further pursue the identified solution. Deadline: July 26, 2019. Read more .

Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning Grant
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will offer grants to local governments and soil and water conservation districts to help pay for the initial planning of nonagricultural nonpoint source water quality improvement projects. Grants of up to $30,000 are available to finance planning services to produce planning reports. There is no minimum award amount. An applicant may submit more than one application. If an applicant receives more than one award, DEC may combine the projects into a single contract. Applicants are limited to a maximum of 10 applications per round. Each application must fit within a single grant category. The goal of the program is to get non-agricultural nonpoint source water quality improvement projects ready for construction and to use the planning report funded by the grant to seek funding through the Water Quality Improvement Project program or other funding entities. Those seeking planning grants to support projects to upgrade, repair or replace elements of a wastewater treatment and/or collection system, or the construction of such system for an area with failing onsite septic systems, are referred to the New York State DEC/EFC Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant Program. Deadline: July 26, 2019 . More info .

Hudson River Estuary Trees for Tribs Program  
The Hudson River Estuary Program’s Trees for Tribs program offers free native trees and shrubs for planting along the tributary streams in the Hudson River estuary watershed. Our staff can help you with a planting plan and work with your volunteers. Fall planting projects are now taking place. If you own or manage property near a stream in the Hudson estuary watershed, you can apply for assistance from Trees for Tribs. Landowners or managers must complete an application (PDF)  and if the project is selected, recruit volunteers for planting, and maintain the site after the planting is complete. Deadline: August 1, 2019 for planting in the fall. More info .

Wal-Mart Foundation: Community Grant Program
Through the Community Grant Program, Wal-Mart associates are proud to support the needs of their communities by providing grants to local organizations. Awarded grants range from $250 to $5,000. Deadline:  Dec. 31, 2019 . More details .

Preservation Assistance Grants for Smaller Institutions
Preservation Assistance Grants help small and mid-sized institutions—such as libraries, museums, historical societies, archival repositories, cultural organizations, town and county records offices, and colleges and universities—improve their ability to preserve and care for their significant humanities collections. These may include special collections of books and journals, archives and manuscripts, prints and photographs, moving images, sound recordings, architectural and cartographic records, decorative and fine art objects, textiles, archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, furniture, historical objects, and digital materials.  Deadline  January 15, 2020 . Find out more  here .

Volunteer Opportunity for Birders
The Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska State Park Preserve is looking for volunteers to participate in an annual breeding bird survey. The data that is collected will be used to understand how a recent 2,027-acre wildfire may have impacted the birds that breed here. The fire burned through a designated Bird Conservation Area that is used by a diverse array of bird species. With the help of volunteers, this survey will illustrate which birds are still using the area. We are looking for experienced birders that can identify NY birds by sight and sound.

  • Surveys will take place Wednesday and Friday mornings from May 10th - June 28th (you do not need to attend all survey dates).
  • Volunteers will arrive at 6:00am and surveys will end by 10:00am.
  • We will meet in the Sam’s Point Parking lot: 400 Sam’s Point Road, Cragsmoor, NY 12420.
  • Each day, we will survey 8 sites, some of which are right next to the trail, while others may require some minor bushwhacking.
  • After the surveys, you are welcome to stay and explore the trails and natural wonders that Sam’s Point has to offer. Volunteers get free parking for the day!

If you are interested in volunteering, please email Ecosystem Steward, Christina Seymour, at christina.seymour@parks.ny.gov , and she will send you more information about the survey and how to sign up for your preferred dates.

NYSDEC Needs Volunteers!
Every year, hundreds of volunteers help DEC scientists and naturalists collect data on fish and wildlife and plant native trees along Hudson River tributary streams. You, too can get involved! Discover more .

New York State Assembly Grants Action News 
State, federal, and private grant information from the New York State Assembly. More info .
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