AKWESASNE — Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe will receive $498,000 in grant funding through New York State’s new Community Reforestation (CoRe) program to support forest conservation efforts in Akwesasne.

The funding, announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul, will help restore a culturally significant forest area devastated by the Emerald Ash Borer, with a focus on reestablishing native tree species and supporting long-term forest health.

The grant is part of a $15 million investment unveiled by Governor Hochul on Arbor Day 2025, aimed at expanding and restoring resilient forests across New York State. The initiative supports the Governor’s “25 Million Trees Initiative,” which was launched as part of the 2024 State of the State agenda to address climate resilience and improve community health through reforestation.

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s project will focus on restoring forest canopy and enhancing the ecological integrity of the area. The Tribe’s efforts will not only combat the impacts of invasive species like the Emerald Ash Borer, but also preserve vital cultural connections to the land.

“Resilient urban forests support community health, well-being and sustainability,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m celebrating Arbor Day 2025 by awarding $15 million in new grants to support projects across the State that will bring the countless ecological and economic benefits of trees to urban areas.”

Administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the CoRe program prioritizes projects in areas vulnerable to climate change and heat stress. In addition to ecological restoration, many CoRe projects include educational and workforce development components aimed at engaging youth and local communities in long-term environmental stewardship.