STEPHENTOWN, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- $343,852 in grants was awarded to restore aquatic connectivity, reduce local flood risks, and improve water quality in Stephentown and Philipstown, per the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Funding for the projects will be administered by the NEIWPCC in partnership with DEC's Hudson River Estuary program and supported by New York State's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).
“Through Governor Hochul’s leadership and investments, New York is advancing important efforts to mitigate localized flooding and improve water quality in Hudson River tributaries while protecting and improving the State’s natural resources,” Interim DEC Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “The more than $343,000 announced today will jumpstart the implementation of two projects to restore aquatic organism passage and habitat connectivity. We commend our partners at NEIWPCC and the towns of Stephentown and Philipstown for their partnerships in advancing these critical projects.”
Trout Unlimited will receive $143,853 for a culvert removal and replacement project on Calvin Cole Road in Stephentown to reconnect three and a half miles of high-quality upstream habitat for aquatic organisms. The project will lower chronic flooding issues for the town.