The 2007 FAD requires that DEP provide at least $2 million to implement recommendations in Ashokan Watershed Stream Management plans, with priority given to locally led implementation.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County received the $2 million in their agreement with DEP to administer the grant program, subject to DEP review and approval. CCE is in the process of developing the criteria for selecting projects/programs to receive funding. These projects shall be representative of the multiple-objectives outlined in the Stream Management Plans (water quality improvement, flooding and erosion mitigation, ecosystem protection, recreation enhancement, and management coordination).
In keeping with the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program's committment to working with local residents and agencies, CCE is seeking public input on the guidelines for distributing these funds. The implementation fund was discussed by the Ashokan Watershed Stream Management Program Advisory Council at their February 24th meeting and their April 30th meeting and their August 18th meeting. Almost 20 individuals, representing a diverse set of agencies in the watershed, attended each meeting. In addition, the draft guidelines were sent to other key stakeholders for comment. Draft policies for the implementation funds have been created and will be posted for public comment in a draft notice of funding availability. The planned timeframe for the dissemination of the implementation funds are as follows: