Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the availability of two new grant programs totaling $26 million to address climate change impacts and protect water quality in New York State. The announcement comes shortly after Climate Week and is part of ongoing state efforts to support environmental initiatives.
The state will provide $24 million through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program (CRF) to fund projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, and enhancing water quality on farms. An additional $2 million will be available through the Ecosystem Based Management Program for New York’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts to support long-term waterway health.
“I’m proud that New York continues to be a leader in environmental protections, with critical funding being deployed to our farms and in our communities,” Governor Hochul said. “These are smart investments that will not only protect and improve water quality and ensure a cleaner, more resilient New York but they will also support the economic viability of our state’s agricultural industry for generations to come.”
Richard A. Ball, State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner, stated: “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York agriculture is at the table when it comes to the preservation of our natural resources and combating the effects of climate change. Our CRF program has grown exponentially over the years, reaching more and more farmers every year, and our Ecosystem Based Management program is focused on water quality protections both on and off the farm. These grant opportunities will result in the implementation of dozens of projects across our State that will make significant improvements to the health of our waterways and soils and support the State’s climate and environmental goals.”
Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton added: “New York’s farms and agricultural economy are on the frontlines of adapting to extreme weather and other climate impacts, and under the leadership of Governor Hochul, DEC looks forward to supporting the ongoing work of our government partners, local farmers, and environmental stakeholders to support this industry. The $26 million in funding available through the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program and Ecosystem Based Management Program builds upon the State’s collaborative approach to promote the conservation of lands, protect water quality, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to build a greener, more sustainable future for rural communities.”
The CRF program enters its ninth round with four tracks focusing on livestock management; adaptation and resiliency; healthy soils; and agricultural forestry management. Since its inception, it has awarded $69 million for 580 projects projected to cut over 571,807 metric tons of CO2e emissions—comparable to removing 133,377 gasoline-powered cars from roads for one year.
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts can apply for these grants on behalf of farmers. Proposals must align with Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) priorities set by the Department of Agriculture & Markets. Applications are due by November 17, 2025.
The Ecosystem Based Management Program provides funds for stream restoration projects designed to improve water quality by reducing erosion or sedimentation while also supporting wildlife habitat along riparian ecosystems. County Soil & Water Conservation Districts can apply until December 8, 2025.
Matt Brower, Chair of New York State Soil & Water Conservation Committee commented: “These two grant opportunities will help farmers implement a variety of practices to protect the environment and address issues related to climate change. Over the years, the New York State Soil & Water Conservation Committee has seen an increase in interest from farmers when it comes to implementing such practices. We are fortunate to have funds available to help agriculture community.”
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said: “New York farmers are on front lines climate crisis…I was proud help champion these initiatives through EPF…I encourage eligible farms conservation districts across NY apply.”
Senator Pete Harckham highlighted challenges faced by farm sector due climate change while noting new funding would aid crop protection statewide as well as soil/water management.
Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said: “The Climate Resilient Farming & Ecosystem Based Management programs are important parts NY’s environmental protection/climate change response efforts…Together these programs help lower greenhouse gas emissions improve water quality boost resilience…I’m glad NY maintaining commitment despite federal cuts…”
Assemblymember Deborah Glick emphasized importance giving farmers tools needed both fight climate change strengthen future agriculture stating grants provide critical funding meaningful improvements protect waterways reduce greenhouse gases enhance soil health mitigate severe weather effects safeguard environment/farms’ future.
Both programs operate within AEM framework—a system helping farmers achieve better stewardship/cost-effective systems—with technical assistance from county districts guiding planning/implementation toward science-based decisions balancing business goals/natural resource conservation.
For fiscal year 2025 budget allocations have increased funding through Environmental Protection Fund by $4 million compared previous year—reaching total $81.8 million—for agricultural sustainability efforts including Ag Non-Point Program/Climate Resilient Farming grant program as well as expanded regional initiatives like Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition targeting specific investments in soil/water improvements.
In addition to annual appropriations from state budget the Clean Water Clean Air Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act passed by voters in 2022 authorizes $4.2 billion toward infrastructure upgrades storm/flood preparedness air pollution reduction emission lowering habitat restoration farmland preservation statewide.
New York’s broader climate agenda aims for an equitable transition toward clean energy economy targeting net-zero emissions across multiple sectors—including energy buildings transportation waste—by mid-century while prioritizing investment benefits for disadvantaged communities.
