Adirondack communities and organizations can now apply for some of $600,000 in Environmental Protection Fund  grants for smart growth projects.

The NYS Depart of Environmental Conservation’s Smart Growth Implementation Grant Program is established to promote projects that combine economic development with protection of the natural and built environment.  The funding includes $400,000 dedicated to the Adirondack Park and $200,000 to Catskill Park. 

The official Request for Application (RFA) is available through the NYS Grants Gateway (www.grantsgateway.ny.gov).  DEC is also expected to send the RFA to more than 130 units of local governments and non-profit organization in the Parks.

“DEC is partnering with the Department of State and the Adirondack Park Agency in carrying out the program,” a announcement to the press said, “building on the success of previous rounds of funding that focused on planning and implementation projects.”

The deadline for applications is February 12, 2016. DEC anticipates announcing grant awards in April 2016.