New CWC program addresses potential flood damage

MARGARETVILLE, NY, February 25, 2008 - The Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC) has launched a new grant program to fund stream corridor protection projects where floodwaters threaten lives or property in populated areas.

The Stream Corridor Protection Program is intended to mitigate or correct existing situations in hamlets and villages that present imminent and substantial danger to homes, businesses or other structures and the people who occupy them. Projects must be consistent with recommendations in applicable Stream Management Plans.

Municipalities may apply for grants up to $100,000 for projects to correct or alleviate flood impacts. It is recommended that applicants seek assistance from local Soil & Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), and request an on-site consultation with program staff, before developing their proposal. Design fees, permit and environmental assessment costs, construction expenses and labor provided by municipal workers are eligible expenses under this program. Matching funds are not required.

Grant proposals will be reviewed by CWC and the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, in consultation with local planning boards, code enforcement officers and SWCD technicians.

Proposals may be submitted at any time. Application forms and guidelines, along with program rules and other information, can be found at www.cwconline.org/programs/stream_corridor. They can also be obtained by calling 845-586-1400; or, toll-free, 877-WAT-SHED.

For more information on living streamside in the Catskills, and to download completed Stream Management Plans, go to www.catskillstreams.org