Orange County Executive Neuhaus Announces $4 Million Available in Round Two of Open Space Fund

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus announced the launch of the second round of the Orange County Open Space Fund, with $4 Million available to support projects that protect farmland, natural landscapes, and critical environmental resources across the County.

The 2025 Open Space Fund Fall Cycle is now open, and applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 19, 2025.

"The Open Space Fund is a smart investment in Orange County's future," said Neuhaus. "Preserving open space, agricultural lands, and scenic resources improves quality of life, supports farming and local tourism, and maintains the rural character of our communities. I strongly encourage municipalities and partners to take advantage of this opportunity."

The Open Space Fund provides matching support for the purchase of land, development rights, or conservation easements, covering up to 50% of the purchase price, not to exceed 50% of the appraised value. It also assists with closing and stewardship costs. The program supports the goals outlined in the Orange County Open Space Plan, the Comprehensive Plan, and the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan.

The Fund has established clear application and approval procedures, including evaluation criteria and long-term guidelines for the maintenance and monitoring of protected lands acquired through the program. Eligible applicants include municipalities (Towns, Villages, and Cities), not-for-profit organizations, and individual property owners. Properties already purchased for open space or agricultural protection are not eligible for funding.

Applications must include complete copies of all materials outlined in the program guidelines. Submissions must include one (1) original hard copy and one (1) digital copy and should be sent to:

Orange County Open Space Fund Program
Orange County Department of Planning
124 Main Street
Goshen, New York 10924

All questions must be submitted in writing to: [email protected]

This funding cycle builds on the success of Round 1, which helped preserve hundreds of acres of farmland, sensitive environmental areas, and publicly accessible open space across Orange County. Round 2 reinforces the County's ongoing commitment to sustainable development and long-term conservation.

"This is an important investment in the natural resources that define the beauty and identity of Orange County," said Chairman of the Orange County Legislature Kevin Hines. "We're proud to support a program that protects our land, strengthens communities, and leaves a legacy for future generations."

More information, including application materials and program guidelines, can be found on the Orange County Planning Department's website at www.orangecountygov.com/planning.

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected].

To stay informed about County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus' work and initiatives across Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on social media:

• Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• Instagram: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
• X (formerly Twitter): @OCGovNY | @SNeuhausOC

You can also watch NeuCast podcasts and the Leadership Speaker Series on the Orange County Government YouTube channel.