Watershed Forestry Field Trip Overview
- This competitive grant program awards funds to help pay for watershed forestry-related trips to the NYC Watershed.
- Any organization, community group, or 4-12thgrade classroom in municipalities wholly or partially within the East and West of Hudson Watersheds or the 5 boroughs of NYC may apply. If you’re not sure if you are eligible, please email education@nycwatershed.org.
- All trips include a visit to a NYC-DEP drinking water reservoir.
- There are 2 rounds of funding each year with applications due in early January & August and partial funding is often awarded primarily for transportation costs.
- Grantees receive half of the grant award up front and the second half as reimbursement after the tour.
How to apply:
1. Download and review the Sample Application to understand what a strong application should include.
2. Visit our Teacher Resources webpage, especially the Watershed Forestry Essentials and Watershed Forestry Activity Kit, for background information and teaching resources about the 3 main program themes:
- Theme 1: Watershed form and function (e.g. what is a watershed, what defines a watershed and how does it function, why do watersheds need protection, etc.)
- Theme 2: Watershed trees and forests (e.g. what are forest ecosystems, how do trees & forests filter and protect water quality [in upstate drinking water watersheds and in downstate suburban/urban environments], what other benefits do trees & forests provide, etc.)
- Theme 3: The New York City water supply system (e.g. what are the different parts of the system, the history of its construction, how can we conserve water and help care for our drinking water watersheds, etc.)
3. Download the Field Trip Application and complete it electronically (hand-written applications will not be considered). Use the Field Trip Options and Guides, and Bus Company Contact List, to help with your planning and budgeting.
4. Complete the Administrative Support Form on the last page of the application. You may also download the Administrative Support Form separately.
