Parks, Preservation and Heritage in New York

The Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) Grants Program for Parks, Preservation and Heritage is a New York State-funded initiative managed by the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation (OPRHP). This program was established under the Environmental Conservation Law to support the acquisition, planning, development, and improvement of parks, historic properties, and heritage areas throughout New York State. The EPF offers up to $26 million in funding to eligible projects that align with state conservation and community development priorities. Grant funds are available to municipalities, state agencies, public authorities, public benefit corporations, and not-for-profit corporations that are registered in New York and pre-qualified in the Statewide Financial System (SFS). Applicants must have a current ownership interest in the project property or present documentation of intent to acquire or secure long-term control of the property. Projects must be located within the physical boundaries of New York State. The EPF program includes three main categories: Parks Program, which supports recreational facility development and planning; Historic Preservation Program, which funds restoration of properties listed on the State or National Register of Historic Places; and the Heritage Area Program, which targets resources identified in approved management plans of designated heritage areas. Grant funding can be used for permanent capital improvements, land acquisition, project-specific planning, and historic restoration. However, operational costs, fundraising expenses, and certain equipment purchases are not eligible. Applicants must provide a minimum 50% match, which can include cash, in-kind contributions, or property value. Projects in ZIP codes where over 10% of the population lives below the poverty line may be eligible for up to 75% reimbursement. All awarded funds are provided on a reimbursement basis, requiring recipients to initially cover expenses. Applications must include a detailed budget, supporting maps, environmental review documents, photographs of the site, schematic site plans, and community support evidence. For not-for-profit applicants, municipal endorsement is required unless the project is on state land. All documentation must be submitted through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) portal, and incomplete applications risk disqualification. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to their Regional Grants Administrator for early feedback and to ensure alignment with program priorities. For more information and resources, including required forms and application instructions, applicants should visit the OPRHP grants website or contact NYSOPRHPGrants@parks.ny.gov.