In an important step toward strengthening the resiliency of our communities and environmental conservation in the Great Lakes region, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, Erie County and the Town of Evans have been selected to receive grants through the New York Great Lakes Basin Small Grants Program. This program is a collaboration between New York Sea Grant (NYSG) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), with a focus on supporting projects that align with the goals of the New York Great Lakes Action Plan. These projects aim to promote sustainable land use, improve water quality and manage natural resources using ecosystem-based approaches.
Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper will be awarded $50,000 for an exciting project aimed at transforming Ellicott Island Park. This initiative involves incorporating aquatic habitats and native plants to combat erosion, improve habitat quality, and reduce the spread of invasive species. In doing so, it contributes to the long-term environmental sustainability of this park.
Additionally, the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning was awarded $49,982 for their efforts. This funding will be used to evaluate regulations related to the Lake Erie watershed. The goal is to provide technical support regarding sustainable land use practices to municipalities within the Niagara River and Lake Erie watersheds. The project also involves creating a decision-making checklist for municipal councils while proposing improvements to municipal laws, regulations and plans.
The Town of Evans Planning and Community Development Department has been awarded $48,000 to conduct an analysis on the impact of sediment transport at Sturgeon Point Marina. The aim is to reduce operational expenses and enhance the recreational, economic and social value of the marina. This initiative is part of a larger effort to strengthen coastal resource management and resilience.
DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos and NYSG Associate Director Catherine Bunting Howarth emphasized New York State's commitment to advancing environmental goals within the Great Lakes watershed. They believe these projects are vital to improving the environmental and economic sustainability of the region.
This funding program is one component of New York's comprehensive approach to meeting diverse environmental needs in waterfront communities. Past projects have included promoting water access compliance with ADA standards, providing environmental education opportunities for youth and habitat restoration.
The New York Great Lakes Basin Small Grants Program is supported by New York State's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), whose budget currently stands at $400 million—the highest in its history—under Governor Hochul's administration. To date, more than $1.4 million has already been awarded to various initiatives across New York's St. Lawrence River region.
Main Image: This living coastal viewing area in Grand Island, New York, is an example of a project made possible by New York Great Lakes Basin Small Grant funding to Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper in 2021. Image: Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper
