The New York State Conservation Partnership Program is an innovative public-private partnership between the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Alliance’s New York Program.
Throughout its history, the Conservation Partnership Program has awarded 1,269 grants totaling more than $34 million to 99 land trusts working across New York. This funding, provided by New York State’s Environmental Protection Fund, has leveraged at least $34.6 million in local matching funds, helping land trusts conserve tens of thousands of acres of farmland, wildlife habitat, recreational areas and urban open spaces.
Announcing the 2025 New York State Conservation Partnership Program grants
New York's Department of Environmental Conservation awards more than $3 million in Conservation Partnership Program grants.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced that more than $3 million was awarded to 45 not-for-profit land trusts across the state. The funding, made available through the Conservation Partnership Program, will support 61 projects designed to support land trusts and their ongoing work, which complements the state’s efforts to protect water quality, prevent farmland conversion, boost public access for outdoor recreation and conserve open space.
“The Conservation Partnership Program demonstrates the power of collaboration in advancing New York’s environmental goals,” said Commissioner Lefton. “Land trusts are essential partners in protecting critical habitats, expanding public access to nature, and making communities across the state more climate resilient. The Conservation Partnership Program grants announced today build upon the successful partnership between DEC, the Land Trust Alliance and New York’s land trusts, and reflect our dedication to working hand-in-hand with local organizations to achieve our shared conservation goals and protect public land. Congratulations to the awardees — your dedication is helping to build a greener, healthier and more sustainable New York.”
Current funding opportunities
The New York State Conservation Partnership Program is not currently accepting new grant applications. The Land Trust Alliance and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation expect to release a Request for Proposals for the 2025-2026 round of CPP grants in early September 2025. In the meantime, prospective applicants are encouraged to look through the previous year's Request for Proposals, Evaluation Criteria and Frequently Asked Questions.
Prospective applicants and current awardees can create a new account or access their existing account through our online Application and Reporting Portal. Having trouble logging in or need to update organizational information? Please contact Katrina Howey, New York project manager.
Grant types available
Conservation Partnership Program Grants are available in five categories:
Eligibility requirements
Grant funding through the Conservation Partnership Program is available to qualified land conservation organizations working in New York State that meet the following criteria:
Questions? Reach out.
