Grants Available for Community-Based Projects to Improve Water Quality and Ecological Health Along the Lower Esopus

Ulster County, in collaboration with the Hudson River Foundation, is pleased to announce a call for Letters of Interest for grants supporting priority projects identified in the Lower Esopus Stream Management Implementation Plan. This funding opportunity is part of a multi-year initiative to restore and protect the health of the Lower Esopus Creek, a vital natural resource flowing through the towns of Olive, Marbletown, Hurley, Ulster, and Saugerties, as well as the City of Kingston and the Village of Saugerties.

The Lower Esopus Stream Management Plan (SMP) was developed to address ecological challenges, such as sedimentation and flooding, while honoring the creek’s cultural, recreational, and environmental significance. Supported by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection through an Order on Consent, the SMP identifies a set of actionable, community-driven projects that aim to promote long-term, sustainable management for a healthier, more resilient watershed.

This year's solicitation will provide up to $500,000 in available funding, with a focus on projects that address water quality impairments and are ready for near-term implementation. Funding for individual projects will vary, with awards up to $100,000. Eligible applicants include municipalities and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, particularly those with strong ties to the Lower Esopus region.

Interested applicants must first submit a Letter of Interest through the Hudson River Foundation’s online application system by Friday, July 25. For details and submission instructions, visit: hudsonriver.org/grants/#le-smp-grants.

To support prospective applicants, Ulster County will host a two-part informational webinar on Thursday, June 26, from 11 AM to 2:30 PM:

• Part 1 (11 AM – 12 Noon): Jonathan Kramer, President of the Hudson River Foundation, will provide an overview of the current funding opportunity, including guidance on how to submit a letter of interest and apply for implementation funds.

• Part 2 (1 PM – 2:30 PM): Kristen Wilson, Deputy Director of the Ulster County Planning Department, will present on the NYS Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process, share tips for writing competitive proposals, and explore synergies between CFA and Lower Esopus funding priorities.

Register for the webinar here: tinyurl.com/LowerEsopus. A recording will be made available on the Ulster County Planning Department YouTube channel after the event.

For more information about the Lower Esopus Stream Management Plan and Implementation Plan, visit: https://loweresopussmp-ulstercounty.hub.arcgis.com.

*Photos attached to this release include Glenerie Falls, and the Ashokan Center (photo by Burt Samuelson).