By Alecia Solorzano

HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WENY) -- Commissioner Basil Seggos from The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced today that the ‘Buffer in a Bag’ Program opens applications on March 1st. For public and private landowners who qualify, they may apply for a free bag of 25 tree and shrub seedlings provided by DEC's Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery.

"Planting along streams creates woodland buffers that are critically important for keeping soil in place, slowing floodwaters, intercepting pollution, and providing food and shelter for wildlife," said Commissioner Seggos in a prepared statement. 

The program is helping to meet Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment in the 2024 State of State meeting to plant 25 million trees by 2033. To qualify, landowners must have property in New York State with at least 50 feet bordering a stream, river, or lake.

The DEC said seedlings are to be planted near streams, rivers, or lakes to help stabilize banks, protect water quality, combat climate change, and improve wildlife habitat. Previous recipients are encouraged to reapply. Recipients are chosen on a first-come, first-served basis and will receive one bag of 25 seedlings. A total of 250 bags will be available across the state during this round of applications.

Applications for this period will close at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, or when the seedling supply runs out, whichever comes first. Visit DEC's website for more information about the ‘Buffer in a Bag’ application process and requirements.