Who May Apply?
Application for funding should consist of a transmittal letter describing the organization and the
facility for which funding is being requested, a concise narrative that addresses all of the rating criteria, a detailed budget, site
maps and photos. All applications must first be submitted to Grants Bureau, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and
Historic Preservation, Agency Building 1, 16th floor, Empire State Plaza, Albany NY 12238. Upon our review, we will forward all
eligible applications to the US Fish and Wildlife Service for their consideration. Five full sets of the application will be
required. To the extent possible, all attachments should be no larger than 8 1/2" x 11" format, labeled with property name,
location and cross-referenced to the specific part in the application. Only flexible portfolios less than 1" thick should be used to
package the application.
When must my share be available?
The immediate availability of funds is a critical factor when evaluating grant applications. This
assures that approved projects can begin quickly.
Are these matching grants?
Yes. Assistance toward the cost of projects shall not exceed 50% of the approved project cost. After
the grant award is made, the funding amount will not be adjusted upward.
Are there Affirmative Action Requirements for this grant program?
Yes. Our Agency is committed to programs of Affirmative Action and Agency staff will assist you in
undertaking Affirmative Action initiatives as you plan your project. Article 15A of the Executive Law pertains to Minority and
Women owned Business Enterprises (MWBE)/Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). Grant recipients will be required to solicit
MWBEs during the project and document in the final payment request/final report their "Good Faith Efforts" to involve MWBEs in
the project.
Are there environmental review requirements for this Program?
Yes. These applications are subject to review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
In addition, the requirements of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) must also be met. Municipalities who receive
grant awards will be considered lead agency for SEQR compliance. OPRHP will be considered lead agency under SEQR for
Not-for-Profit projects selected for funding.
When can I start work?
Once the project has received federal approval, a project agreement (including a budget, scope of
work and performance timeline) is formalized between OPRHP and the applicant. Construction documents require review before
work can begin, and some contracts must be publicly bid following applicable guidelines. Please contact the appropriate agency
representative before any project work is undertaken. For projects that involve properties listed on or eligible for the
State/National Register, all work undertaken as part of a grant-assisted project must conform to the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation. Some pre-development costs, incurred prior to the project
approval, may be eligible for reimbursement, subject to approval by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
When are the grant monies available?
This is a reimbursement program. Expenditures are not eligible for reimbursement unless they are
incurred within the approved project period. Successful applicants must document project expenditures in order to receive
reimbursements. As a result, grantees must plan their financial arrangements accordingly.
Do these grants come with provisions for long term protection?
Yes. You must ensure that the design and installation of tie-up facilities provide for substantial
structures that will have a significant longevity, at least 20 years. You must also ensure that you operate, maintain, and use the
tie-up facilities and features for the stated grant purpose. You must obtain prior written approval before you can covert these
tie-up facilities to other uses.
When are the grant monies available?
This is a reimbursement program. Expenditures are not eligible for reimbursement unless they are
incurred within the approved project period. Successful applicants must document project expenditures in order to receive
reimbursements. As a result, grantees must plan their financial arrangements accordingly.
What other requirements will need to be met?
There are several other Federal, State and OPRHP requirements that will need to be met. These
requirements will all be specified in the Project Agreement for an awarded grant project.
Does this grant come with provisions for long term protection?
Yes. You must ensure that the design and installation of tie-up facilities provide for substantial
structures that will have a significant longevity, at least 20 years. You must also ensure that you operate, maintain, and use the
tie-up facilities and features for the stated grant purpose. You must obtain prior written approval before you can covert these
tie-up facilities to other uses.
What other requirements will need to be met?
There are several other Federal, State and OPRHP requirements that will need to be met. These
requirements will all be specified in the Project Agreement for an awarded grant project.
Is technical assistance available?
For assistance, please contact: For assistance, please contact: Mindy Scott, Chief of Grants at
(518) 474-0427 or Joe Grimaldi, Grants Program Administrator at (518) 486-2930.
The following US Fish and Wildlife website provides additional information at
http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/GrantPrograms/BIG/BIG.htm
