Putnam Soil & Water launches $180K conservation grant program 

The Putnam County Soil & Water Conservation District has launched a new grant program offering $180,000 to support conservation projects throughout the county. 

Applications for the district’s first Conservation Grant Program opened this month with funding available for projects involving agriculture, lakes and watersheds, municipal conservation efforts, education and technical assistance. 

The largest portions of the funding — $60,000 each — have been set aside for agricultural conservation and lake and watershed projects. 

Agricultural grants are intended to support conservation efforts and stewardship of farmland and other natural resources. Lake and watershed grants will support projects aimed at protecting local lakes, watersheds, and water quality. 

Another $20,000 has been designated for municipal conservation partnerships, allowing the district to work with towns, villages and other municipalities to address local conservation priorities. 

The remaining $40,000 is earmarked for conservation education and technical assistance. That includes $30,000 in general competitive grants and $10,000 for an income-qualified septic technical assistance pilot program. 

Eligible applicants may include farmers, lake communities, municipalities, schools, nonprofits, and community organizations. 

The grant program comes as the Soil & Water Conservation District says it has been rebuilding its operations and restoring its independence, with an increased focus on putting resources directly into conservation projects around Putnam County. 

“The more people who know about these resources, the more we can put this funding to work protecting Putnam County’s land, water and natural resources,” the district said in announcing the program. 

Applications received by Sept. 30 will be part of an initial review period. After that, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through Dec. 1, subject to the availability of funds. 

For information or to apply, visit pcswcd.org/conservation-grants. Questions can also be directed to grants@pcswcd.org or 845-803-0348. 

Article provided by Putnam County Soil & Water Conservation District