Photo: Maki Nakamura / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Ulster County is offering grants to improve the water quality of the Lower Esopus Creek. This initiative is part of the Lower Esopus Stream Management Plan, which aims to tackle ecological challenges like sedimentation and flooding while respecting the creek's cultural and environmental importance. The county, in collaboration with the Hudson River Foundation, has announced up to $500,000 in funding for projects that address water quality impairments and are ready for near-term implementation.
Eligible applicants include municipalities and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, particularly those with strong ties to the Lower Esopus region. Individual project awards can reach up to $100,000. Interested parties must submit a Letter of Interest through the Hudson River Foundation's online application system by Friday (July 25).
Ulster County will host an informational webinar on Thursday (June 26) from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to support prospective applicants. A recording of the webinar will be available on the Ulster County Planning Department's YouTube channel.
The initiative is supported by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection through an Order on Consent and aims to promote sustainable management for a healthier watershed. More information can be found on the Ulster County Government website.