On Arbor Day, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced $46 million in new funding through its Advancing Forest Markets grant program, aimed at strengthening the state’s tree supply chain, expanding forest-based industries, and reducing the cost of tree seedlings for planting.
The program is designed to support New York’s 25 Million Trees Initiative by increasing the availability of native seedlings for reforestation and afforestation while also bolstering forest economies tied to wood products, maple syrup, and other timber-related industries. State officials say the effort is intended to address both climate resilience and long-term land stewardship.
Eligible applicants include nurseries, seed collectors, forest landowners, and businesses involved in forest products. Participants must be registered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency and meet program-specific land or production requirements.
Funding is structured across three categories: discounts for nurseries supplying seedlings at reduced cost, expansion of nursery and seed collection capacity, and support for forest businesses developing or scaling markets for wood and other forest products. Grants range from $100,000 to $12 million and do not require matching funds. Incentive payments will also be issued at the start of projects.
Applications are due by Aug. 5 and must be submitted through the Statewide Financial System, with prequalification required for nonprofit applicants. All funded work must be completed by January 2028.
State officials and industry groups described the initiative as a significant investment in both ecological restoration and rural economic development, underscoring the role of forests in climate mitigation and regional manufacturing.
More information at on.ny.gov/25milliontrees
