New York Awards Grants to Boost Forest Industry
The state is investing millions into sawmill capacity and sustainable forestry to support regional tree planting goals.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Landscaping
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The New York Department of Environmental Conservation has awarded $45 million to 44 projects aimed at strengthening the forest products industry. These investments support sustainable forest management and the state's ambitious initiative to plant 25 million trees.
Why it matters
This funding seeks to bolster local forest businesses and secure the tree seedling supply chain across the state. By removing production bottlenecks at mills, the initiative aims to enhance the capacity for essential timber products.
Brookside Lumber in Moravia received a $1.54 million grant to increase production capacity for crane mats. Other notable awards include $847,724 for Woodwise Forestry and $509,860 for Hickory Hill Farms.
The players
New York Department of Environmental Conservation
This state agency oversees the protection of natural resources and manages forestry development programs.
Brookside Lumber
A family-owned sawmill in Moravia that specializes in timber procurement and the production of wood products.
The details
Brookside Lumber, a family-owned sawmill located in Moravia, will use its funding to eliminate operational bottlenecks. The program supports diverse regional entities including Woodwise Forestry in Monroe County and Hickory Hill Farms in Ontario County.
Timeline
On October 29, 2026, the state announced the Advancing Forest Markets initiative grant awards.
Culture Shift
This investment aligns with New York's goal of planting 25 million trees to promote sustainable land management. It reflects a shift toward strengthening local, resource-based economies rather than relying on external timber supply chains.
The upgrades to regional mills may improve local availability of wood products for construction and landscaping projects. Residents in areas like the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier can expect increased industry activity as these projects ramp up operations.
The takeaway
Supporting local mills helps ensure that forest management remains sustainable and economically viable for rural communities. Homeowners and local builders benefit when regional lumber supply chains operate with greater efficiency.
Further reading
Find more updates on state environmental programs in the New York Landscaping section.
Live Poll
Do you support using state funds to expand private lumber production in your local area?
