Resources - Center for Community Design Research

In addition to direct assistance available from the Center, a wide range of resources is available directly to communities in New York State. Following are a collection of web-links and direct contacts for a variety of community design and planning needs:

Conservation & Natural Resources
Design
Funding
Heritage & Historic Preservation
Housing
Planning
Rural Development
State & Federal Agencies

Conservation and Natural Resources

The American Farmland Trust (AFT) informs Americans about the issues posed by rapid depletion of the nation’s farmland, the harmful effects of soil erosion, and other threats to the agricultural viability of the land. AFT undertakes projects, directly through cooperating organizations and individual landowners, which demonstrate farmland protection techniques, and assists farmland protection policy efforts and land use initiatives by local, state, and federal government.

American Farmland Trust, 1920 N. Street, N.W., Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 331-7300 Internet: http://www.farmland.org/

Northeastern Field Office: (413) 586-9330 (413) 586-9330

The American Forestry Association (AFA) advocates the protection, wise management, and enjoyment of both rural and urban forest resources in America. Its objective is to maintain and improve the health and value of trees and forests throughout America and to attract and cultivate the interests of citizens, industry and government.

American Forestry Association P.O. Box 2000 Washington, DC 20013 (800) 368-5748 FAX (202) 667-7751

American Rivers works to preserve the nation’s outstanding rivers and riverscapes. It works to enlarge the national Wild and Scenic Rivers system; advocates for state river protection laws, hydroelectric power policy reform and public lands planning; and provides technical assistance to state and local river organizations.

American Rivers, 1025 Vermont Ave., NW, Suite 720, Washington, DC 20005 (202) 347-7550 Internet: http://www.amrivers.org

The Archaeological Conservancy is a national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to acquiring and permanently preserving the best of the nation’s remaining archaeological sites. To save these sites, the Conservancy acquires the property by purchase, gift, or bargain sale to charity, secures the property and stabilizes the cultural resources, prepares a management plan and dedicates the property as a permanent archaeological preserve, and educates the general public about the destruction of our cultural heritage and how best to save what is left. Members receive The Archaeological Conservancy Newsletter.

The Archaeological Conservancy, 5301 Central Ave., NE, Alburquerque, NM 87108-9899 (505) 266-1540 (505) 266-1540 , Internet: http://www.americanarchaeology.com

The Association of Towns of the State of New York was established in 1933 to help towns obtain greater economy and efficiency. The Association serves town governments by providing training programs, research and information services, technical assistance, legal services, computer software programs, insurance programs and a variety of publications to member towns. It represents town governments by providing advocacy in Albany, monitoring legislation and regulatory action, lobbying and presenting initiatives solely on behalf of towns. The Association gains all of its revenue from dues and activities and receives no State or federal assistance.

Association of Towns of New York State, 146 State Street, Albany, New York 12207 Tel (518) 465-7933 (518) 465-7933 Fax (518) 465-0724 http://www.nytowns.org

The Coastal States Organization is a non-profit representative association for the governors of the 35 coastal states, commonwealths, and territories that border an ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, or a Great Lake. The purpose of the association is to provide a voice for the coastal states in the formulation, development, and implementation of national marine and coastal resource programs and policies. It serves as the national coordinator of Coastweeks, a national three-week observance of the coast. The organization also publishes a bi-monthly bulletin, the Washington Wire, a Coastweeks Calendar of Events, and special reports.

Coastal States Organization, Suite 322, 444 North Capitol Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20001 (202) 508-3860 http://www.coastalstates.org

The Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit organization, is dedicated to advancing land and water conservation with creative ideas and new resources. They provide specialized services ranging from land planning and acquisition to ecological assessment and communications support, and they analyze regulations, policies, and bills relating to natural resources and land use. The fund also publishes a bimonthly newsletter, Common Ground, and the bimonthly Land Letter, which discusses natural resource policy at the national level.

The Conservation Fund, 1800 North Kent Street, Suite 1120, Arlington, VA 22209 (703) 525-6300 Internet: http://www.conservationfund.org

The Environmental Defense Fund, Inc. (EDF) is a nationwide public interest organization of lawyers, scientists, and economists dedicated to protecting and improving environmental quality and public health. EDF pursues responsible reform of public policy in the fields of energy and resource conservation, toxic chemicals, water resources, air quality, land use, and wildlife, working through research and public education, and judicial, administrative, and legislative action.

Environmental Defense Fund, Inc. Headquarters: 257 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010 (212) 505-2100 Internet: http://www.edf.org

The Finger Lakes Land Trust is a non-profit community-based organization dedicated to protecting the natural integrity of the Finger Lakes region. By protecting key habitats and the region’s forests, farms and open spaces, the Land Trust provides many benefits for the public: clean air and water, plant and animal diversity, scenic views and opportunities to learn about and enjoy the natural world.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust, 202 East Court Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 Phone: (607) 275-9487 (607) 275-9487 Fax: (607) 275-0037 Inernet: http://www.fingerlakeslandtrust.org

Friends of the Earth works to influence public policy, engages in research and litigation, and serves as a clearinghouse for information. The institute’s special areas of concern include groundwater protection, strip mining, nuclear waste, and coastal resources.

Friends of the Earth, 1025 Vermont Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20005 (202) 783-7400 Internet: http://www.foe.org

The Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council was established in 1977 by a joint resolution approved by its eight original member counties, including Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates. Wyoming County was admitted in 1986. There are 33 voting members of the Council representing participating counties, the City of Rochester, and the minority community. These members include chief elected officials, local legislators, department heads, and key community leaders in the region. The primary functions of G/FLRPC include Regional Planning, Regional Economic Development, Strategic Planning, Program and Grant Development, Surveys, and Data, Technology, and Resource Center.

The Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Council, 1427 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, New York 14618 Voice: 716-442-3770 716-442-3770 Fax: 716-442-3786 http://www.gflrpc.org/

The Institute for Environmental Negotiation provides neutral third-party mediation assistance to governments, businesses, and citizen groups in the settlement of land use, historic preservation, and environmental policy disputes. Institute for Environmental Negotiation, 164 Rugby Road, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903 (804) 924-1970 Internet: http://www.virginia.edu/~envneg/IEN.html

The Land Trust Alliance is the national organization of land trusts. The Alliance provides specialized services, publications, information, and training for land trusts and other conservation organizations, and works for public policies that advance land conservation.

The Land Trust Alliance, 1319 F Street, N.W. #501 Washington, DC 20004-1006 (202) 638-4725 (202) 638-4725 FAX: (202) 638-4730 Internet: http://www.lta.org

The Mineral Policy Center was founded in 1988 to bring environmental controls to the mining industry. The center directly assists local community groups working on mining problems, lobbies Congress and federal agencies, and works with the courts. It publishes Clementine, Journal of Responsible Mineral Development, and other bulletins.

Mineral Policy Center, 161 K St., NW, Suite 808 Washington, DC 20006 (202) 887-1872 Internet: http://www.mineralpolicy.org

The National Association of Service and Conservation Corps (NASCC) is a nonprofit education association made up of conservation and service corps operating in states and cities. It serves as an information exchange network for members concerning conservation corps administration and management, promotes conservation and service values among staff and corpsmembers, offers technical assistance to those interested in launching new corps, and promotes establishment of federal, state, and local programs. NASCC sponsors an annual national conference and regional seminars and workshops for youth corps advocates and related youth service programs.

National Association of Service and Conservation Corps, 666 Eleventh St., N.W. Washington, DC 20001 (202) 737-6272, Internet: http://www.nascc.org

The National Parks and Conservation Association (NPCA) is a private, citizen-funded organization devoted solely to defending, expanding, and conserving the National Parks. NPCA works as an ally and constructive critic of the National Park Service. The Park Education Center provides extensive information on our nation’s parks, while citizen action programs give citizens an opportunity to get personally involved in issues. Members of NPCA receive National Parks, a bi-monthly magazine.

National Parks and Conservation Association, 1300 Nineteenth St., NW, Suite 300 Vienna, VA 22184 (703) 790-4000, Internet: http://www.npca.org

The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) functions as a nonprofit conservation education organization dedicated to creating and encouraging an awareness of the need for wise use and management of those resources upon which lives and welfare depend: soil, air, water, forests, minerals, plant and wildlife. NWF undertakes a conservation education program, distributes periodicals and educational materials, sponsors outdoor education programs in conservation, and litigates environmental disputes.

National Wildlife Federation, 8925 Leesburg Pike, Washington, DC 20036-2266 (202) 797-6800 (202) 797-6800 Internet: http://www.nwf.org

The Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. (NRDC) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting America’s endangered natural resources and to improving the quality of the human environment. The Council combines government agencies from various disciplines, bringing legal action and disseminating citizen information.

Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc., 40 West 20th Street, New York, NY 10011 (212) 727-2700, Internet: http://www.nrdc.org

The Nature Conservancy, an international environmental organization, works to protect the habitat of rare plants and animals. The Conservancy operates 50 state offices, regional and field offices, and maintains 1,100 nature preserves. It also publishes Nature Conservancy Magazine.

The Nature Conservancy, 4245 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203-1606 (800) 628-6860 (800) 628-6860 or (703) 841-5300 (703) 841-5300 , Internet: http://www.tnc.org

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has three main functions: natural resource management, environmental quality protection and the promotion of public health, safety and recreation. DEC protects, improves and conserves the state’s land,water, air, fish, wildlife and other resources to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people and their overall economic and social well-being.

NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12233-1011 518-485-8940 Fax 518-457-7744 Internet: http://www.dec.state.ny.us

State Divisions (for complete listing, see website): Fish and Wildlife (518) 457-5690 (518) 457-5690 Marine Resources (516) 444-0430 (516) 444-0430 Lands and Forests (518) 457-2475 (518) 457-2475 Environmental Remediation (518) 457-5861 (518) 457-5861 Recreation (518) 457-2500 (518) 457-2500 Public Affairs and Education (518) 457-0840 (518) 457-0840 Forest Rangers (518) 457-5740 (518) 457-5740 Environmental Enforcement (518) 457-4348 (518) 457-4348

The New York State Department of Transportation functions and duties generally are as follows: Coordinate and develop comprehensive transportation policy for the State; coordinate and assist in the development and operation of transportation facilities and service including highway, railroad, mass transit, port, waterway and aviation facilities and formulate and keep current a long-range, comprehensive statewide master plan for the balanced development of commuter and general transportation facilities, both public and private.

NYS Department of Transportation, Governor Harriman State Campus, Building 5, Albany, NY 12232 (518) 457-6195 Internet: https://www.dot.ny.gov/

Technical Services Division (518) 457-4445 (518) 457-4445

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, is more than parks and historic sites. OPRHP sponsors concerts and arts, fairs and festivals, sports and athletics for people of all ages and abilities, boating and snowmobiling programs, nature study and outreach programs. OPRHP grants programs provide assistance for boating and snowmobiling enforcement, aid to zoos, botanical gardens and aquariums. OPRHP administers funds for federal historic preservation and park programs and the 1986 New York State Environmental Quality Bond Act, the Environmental Protection Fund and the 1996 Clean Water / Clean Air Bond Act.

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Albany, New York 12238 (518) 474-0456 or (518) 486-1899 (518) 486-1899 (TDD) Internet: https://www.parks.ny.gov/

New York Rural Water Association (NYRWA) is a not-for-profit organization organized in 1979 with the goal of promoting the formation, improvement, and sound operation of rural water and wastewater systems throughout New York State. Recently, the New York Rural Water Association has expanded its scope to offer training, technical, and administrative assistance to rural communities on solid waste management matters as well. NYRWA is affiliated with the National Rural Water Association, the largest member utility organization in the nation, with over 18,000 members.

New York Rural Water Association, P.O. Box 487, Claverack, NY 12513 Phone: (518) 828-3155 (518) 828-3155 Fax: (518) 828-0582, Internet: http://www.nyruralwater.org

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), a nonprofit organization, is devoted to converting abandoned railroad rights-of-way into trails for public use. In partnership with citizen groups, public agencies, railroads, and others, the Conservancy is working to build a transcontinental trailway network. RTC’s program includes technical assistance, public education, advocacy, negotiation, legislation, and regulatory action. Publications such as the Citizen’s Manual, Legal Manual, and the newsletter Trailblazer, in addition to conferences and statewide meetings, keep advocates up to date on rail-trail regulations and procedures.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, 1100 17th Street, NW, 10th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 331-9696 FAX (202) 331-9680 Internet: http://www.railtrails.org

The Trust for Public Land (TPL), a nonprofit organization with twelve offices located throughout the U.S., is a network of experts in real estate negotiation, finance, and law, dedicated to protecting land for the public’s use and enjoyment. Neither a membership nor advocacy group, TPL assists public agencies, landowners, and citizens’ groups to protect land of recreational, historic, and scenic value. Its projects range from lot-sized neighborhood gardens to vast additions to forests, parks, and national recreation areas.

The Trust for Public Land, 116 New Montgomery Street, Fourth Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 495-4014, Internet: http://www.tpl.org

Design

The American Institute of Architects (AIA), the national organization for professional architects, is supported by regional and local chapters nationwide. The AIA offers a variety of publications pertaining to architecture and urban design, and maintains a complete architectural library.

American Institute of Architects, 1735 New York Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20006 (202) 626-7300 Internet: http://www.aiaonline.com

The American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA), a national nonprofit organization, promotes excellence in the graphic design profession through competitions, exhibitions, publications, professional seminars, educational activities, and projects in the public’s interest. AIGA has 30 geographically diverse chapters, each representing the graphic design profession on a local level. The institute sponsors a biennial conference and publishes a quarterly journal, The AIGA Journal of Graphic Design.

American Institute of Graphic Artists,164 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010 (212) 807-1990 Internet: http://www.aiga.org

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is the professional organization for landscape architects. Its goal is to inform the public about the profession, land design, planning, and management issues. The Open Committee on the Rural Landscape provides a forum for landscape architects and other disciplines with an interest in agriculture and rural landscape matters.

American Society of Landscape Architects, 636 Eye St., NW, Washington, DC 20001-3736 (202) 898-2444 (202) 898-2444 , Internet: http://www.asla.org

Americans for the Arts, the national clearinghouse for arts board members, volunteers, and individuals, offers several publications, including Connections Monthly and Connections Quarterly as well as various books and annual conferences. In the past NALAA has worked on adaptive use and historic preservation projects for the performing arts.

Americans for the Arts, 1000 Vermont Ave., NW, 12th floor, Washington, DC 20005 (202) 371-2830 Internet: http://www.artsusa.org

The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA), a nonprofit membership organization, serves as the collective voice and service organization for arts agencies. NASAA provides professionals nteers with opportunities for information exchange, leadership development, and issues analysis. The organization publishes NASAA News and ArtView.

National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, 1029 Vermont Ave., NW, 2nd floor Washington, DC 20005 (202) 347-6352, Internet: http://www.nasaa-arts.org

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) is a state funding agency that provides support for activities of nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in New York State and helps to bring artistic programs of high quality to the citizens of the state. NYSCA has been directed by the state Legislature to maintain the “paramount position of this State in the nation and the world as a cultural center” through the support of nonprofit arts organizations in New York State.

New York State Council on the Arts, 915 Broadway, New York, NY 10010 (212) 387-7000 TDD: 1-800-895-9838 1-800-895-9838 , Internet: http://www.nysca.org

Partners for Livable Communities is an international coalition of more than 600 organizations and individuals committed to improving communities’ economic health and quality of life through collaborative resource management. Partners serves as a national resource center for information on the built and natural environments and offers a research and referral service on a broad range of community improvement projects. Partners publish a newsletter semiannually.

Partners for Livable Communities, 1429 21st Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036 (202) 887-5990 FAX 202-466-4845, Internet: http://www.livable.com

Project for Public Spaces (PPS), a nonprofit organization, specializes in the planning, design, and management of public spaces. PPS’s objective is to improve public spaces so they are more usable, lively, safe, and enjoyable. PPS considers public spaces to include all of the areas, interior or exterior, publicly or privately owned, to which the public has access and which form the common life of a community. PPS provides a newsletter Update as well as various books and videos.

Project for Public Spaces, Inc., 153 Waverly Place, 4th floor, New York, NY 10014 (212) 620-5660, Internet: http://www.pps.org

Scenic America, a nonprofit membership organization, is devoted to protecting America’s scenic resources and community character. Scenic America conducts workshops and provides information and technical assistance on sign control, tree ordinances, scenic highways, growth management, and all forms of aesthetic regulation.

Scenic America, 801 Pennsylvania Ave. SE Suite 300 Washington, DC 20003 (202) 543-6200, Internet: http://www.scenic.org

Scenic Hudson is a 36-year old non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the ecosystem, unique landscapes and historic fabric of New York’s Hudson Valley. Scenic Hudson’s work to enhance and protect the lands along the Hudson River between Albany and Manhattan has ensured a legacy of thousands of acres of ecologically significant tributaries and spawning grounds, working farms, historic view sheds, romantic landscapes, an entire mountain ridgeline, riverfront parks, wildlife preserves, even a civil war foundry.

Scenic Hudson, 9 Vassar Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 914-473-4440,Internet: http://www.scenichudson.org

The Society of Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD), an international nonprofit organization, was founded to formalize graphic design as a profession, to increase public awareness of the discipline, and to promote high standards of professional conduct within the field. SEGD sponsors several award programs and conferences; publishes a quarterly newsletter, technical information, and a resource directory; and awards scholarships to fund student research projects in environmental graphic design.

Society of Environmental Graphic Design, 401 F St. NW, Suite 333, Washington DC 20001 (202) 638-5555 Internet: http://www.segd.org

The Waterfront Center, a nonprofit corporation, promotes urban waterfront enhancement through consulting and publications services. The Center publishes Waterfront World Spotlight Quarterly, as well as various books and reports.

Waterfront Center, 1622 Wisconson Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-0356, Internet: http://www.waterfrontcenter.org

Funding

The Council on Foundations, a nonprofit membership organization for grantmakers, promotes and strengthensorganized philanthropy. The Council represents grantmakers, their concerns, and their interests to public policymakers, the media, and the general public. Membership includes almost 1,200 independent, operating, community, public and company sponsored foundations, corporate giving programs, trust companies and international foundations. Council programs help members achieve their charitable goals. The Council publishes Foundation News and Council Columns, bi-monthly and bi-weekly publications, respectively.

Council on Foundations, 1828 L Street, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 466-6512 (202) 466-6512 FAX: (202) 785-3926, Internet: http://www.cof.org

The Foundation Center, a service organization, functions as a source of information on foundations, their patterns of giving, and their fields of interest. The center maintains offices and libraries open to the public in New York, Washington, DC, San Francisco, and Cleveland and collections in nearly 150 cooperating libraries throughout the country. It also provides a toll-free number for information of services and publications.

The Foundation Center, 1001 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 938, Washington, DC 20036, Toll-Free: 1-800-424-9836 1-800-424-9836 or (202) 331-1400 (202) 331-1400

Independent Sector (IS) is a nonprofit coalition of over 650 corporate, foundation, and voluntary organization members. The mission of IS is to create a national forum capable of encouraging giving, volunteering, and nonprofit initiative. Members receive information via Memo to Members, UPDATE, and the Government Relations Information and Action Bulletin. The IS Associates Program is a special category of affiliation for executives of local, state-wide, and regional organizations and active volunteer leaders.

Independent Sector, 1200 18th St. NW Washington, DC 20036 (202) 223-8100 Internet: http://www.independentsector.org

The National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), a national, nonprofit organization, assists its members in advancing the interests of low- and moderate- income persons through the financing, development, and preservation of affordable housing. NCSHA acts as a national clearinghouse for information on state housing finance agencies (HFAs) and their programs and the use of the Low-Income Housing Credit. The Council holds an annual meeting and numerous workshops and publishes Washington Update and HFA Update.

National Council of State Housing Agencies, 444 North Capitol Street, N.W., Suite 118, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 624-7710 (202) 624-7710 FAX: (202) 624-7719, Internet: http://www.ncsha.org

Heritage and Historic Preservation

Public Groups and Agencies

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation advises federal agencies, the President, and Congress on preservation policy. The council also reviews proposed projects in which federal funds are involved in order to evaluate and mitigate potential effects on historic properties.

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Suite 809, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 606-8503 Internet: http://www.achp.gov

The National Park Service (NPS) of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is the principal federal agency responsible for preservation law and activities. The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, with amendments, creates the basic framework for community preservation planning and provides the legal structure for the retention of historic properties. The Act established the National Register of Historic Places to recognize, identify and evaluate significant historical properties. The federal government provides funding for the listing and federal review process and provides incentives to encourage reuse of income-producing historic properties.

National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240 (202) 208-6843, Internet: http://www.nps.gov

The Certified Local Government Program, administered by the National Park Service, provides information on certified local governments, which are local governments with historic preservation programs that meet prescribed standards. These governments are then eligible for special enhanced participation in national preservation programs and grants-in-aid and technical assistance from the state historic preservation officers to assist in carrying out preservation activities at the local level.

Certified Local Government Program, Heritage Preservation Services - National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, NC330, Washington, DC 20240 (202) 343-9583 Internet: http://www2.cr.nps.gov/clg/

State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs) are the state-level public-sector preservation partners. Each state is required to appoint an SHPO and to appropriate funds to match federal preservation dollars. States are additionally required to identify historically significant properties and nominate them to the National Register. SHPOs also administer state and/or local federal grant programs, provide technical assistance on rehabilitation and the National Register, and participate in the federal rehabilitation tax incentives certification program. Contact the National Conference of SHPOs to identify the SHPO in your state.

National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers, 444 North Capitol Street, N.W., Suite 332, Washington, DC 20001-1512 (202) 624-5465 (202) 624-5465 , Internet: http://www.ncshpo.org/

New York Chapter of the NCSHPO NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Bldg. #1 - Empire State Plaza Albany, NY 12238

Private Groups & Organizations

The Alliance for Historic Landscape Preservation provides a forum for communication and exchange of information among its varied members and promotes the preservation and conservation of historic landscapes in all their variety. The Alliance publishes a newsletter and a members’ directory and is working with the National Park Service on standards and guidelines for landscape preservation.

Alliance for Historic Landscape Preservation, 82 Wall Street, Suite 1105, New York, NY 10005, Internet: http://www.ahlp.org

The American Historical Association (AHA), a professional association for historians, has as its mission the advancement of historical scholarship. The AHA brings together nearly 5,000 institutions and 14,000 individuals, including university faculty, public historians, independent scholars, archivists, librarians, and secondary school teachers. AHA members receive The American Historical Review, Perspectives and the AHA Annual Meeting Program.

American Historical Association, 400 A Street, S.E., Washington, DC 20003 (202) 544-2422, Internet: http://www.historians.org/

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) established the Committee on History and Heritage of American Civil Engineering (CHHACE) in 1964, with the purpose of furthering preservation, knowledge, and appreciation of engineering history and heritage. The committee administers the Historical Civil Engineering Landmark Program to identify and give recognition to historically significant engineering projects. It also sponsors the publication of an historical series.

American Society of Civil Engineers 1801 Alexander Bell Drive Reston, VA 20191-4400 (800) 548-2723 (800) 548-2723 Internet: http://www.asce.org

ASCE - Committee on History and Heritage of American Civil Engineering 1015 15th Street, N.W., Suite 600 Washington, DC 20005 (202) 789-2200

The National Alliance of Preservation Commissions serves as an alliance of local preservation commissions that provides information regarding historic preservation law, local ordinances, design review, and local preservation planning. The alliance maintains a speakers’ bureau and publishes the periodic Alliance Review.

National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, c/o School of Environmental Design, 609 Caldwell Hall, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30620, Internet: http://www.uga.edu/sed/pso/programs/napc/napc.htm

Heritage Preservation (formerly The National Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Property, Inc.) serves as a national forum for conservation and preservation activities in the United States. It provides leadership and coordination in national efforts to promote and facilitate the conservation of the nation’s patrimony, which includes cultural property, architecture, and natural history specimens in both public and private collections. It provides coordination in identifying issues and needs, in formulating strategies and solutions, and in initiating programs to ensure the preservation of the nation’s cultural property. Heritage Preservation publishes Council Update and Save Outdoor Sculpture! Update, as well as other publications.

Heritage Preservation, 1730 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007 (202) 632-1422 FAX: 202-634-1435, Internet: http://www.heritagepreservation.org

The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc., is one of the oldest and most active preservation organizations in America. It is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to preserving, interpreting and fostering interest in the architectural, historical, and cultural heritage of our region. The Landmark Society’s service area covers nine Western New York counties.

The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc., 133 South Fitzhough Street, Rochester, New York 14608-2204 (716) 546-7029 (716) 546-7029 , Internet: http://www.landmarksociety.org

The National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) is a nonprofit organization chartered by Congress to foster an appreciation of the diverse character and meaning of America’s cultural heritage. The National Trust publishes Historic Preservation magazine, Historic Preservation News, and Preservation Forum, as well as numerous books through its Preservation Press. NTHP acts as a clearinghouse for information on all aspects of preservation, assists in coordinating efforts of preservation groups, provides professional advice on preservation, conducts conferences and seminars, and maintains historic properties. The National Trust operates six regional offices and one field office that should be contacted first about the following three programs. The goal of the Community Organization Effectiveness Program (COEP) is to strengthen organized preservation efforts at the local level. The National Preservation Loan Fund (NPLF) promotes the revitalization of commercial and industrial centers, the conservation of neighborhoods and rural communities, and the preservation of archeological and maritime resources. The Preservation Services Fund (PSF) supplies grants intended to increase the flow of information and ideas in the field of preservation.

National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1785 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036 (800) 944-6847 (202) 588-6000 (202) 588-6000 , Internet: http://www.nthp.org

Northeast Regional Office, 7 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 4th floor, Boston, MA 02109 (617) 523-0885

The National Trust operates a number of special programs at its headquarters in Washington, DC. Among them are: Public Policy Center: (202) 588-6254 (202) 588-6254 Historic District Commissions: (202) 588-6255 (202) 588-6255 National Main Street Center: (202) 588-6219 (202) 588-6219 Rural Heritage Program: (202) 588-6279 (202) 588-6279 Heritage Tourism Program: (202) 623-1504 (202) 623-1504

Preservation Action (PA) is a national grassroots citizen lobby, with lobbying coordinators in each state. PA assists in drafting legislation, monitors proposed legislation, provides expert testimony, and works with federal agencies that administer preservation programs.

Preservation Action, 1350 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 401, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 659-0915, Internet: http://www.preservationaction.org

The Preservation League of New York State is dedicated to the protection of New York’s diverse and rich heritage of historic buildings, districts, and landscapes. It actively encourages historic preservation by public and private organizations, agencies, and individuals in local communities throughout New York State and provides the united voice for historic preservation.

Preservation League of New York State, 44 Central Avenue, Albany, New York 12206-3002 Phone: 518-462-5658 518-462-5658 fax: 518-462-5684, Internet: http://www.preservenys.org

The Society for American Archaeology (SAA) is a nonprofit, international scholarly and professional association comprised of avocational archaeologists concerned about the discovery, interpretation, and protection of the archaeological heritage of America. While SAA boasts an active grassroots network throughout the country, it also maintains an office of Governmental Relations that works closely with Congress and federal agencies. The society has initiated a major public awareness project called Save the Past for the Future.

The Society for American Archaeology, Office of Governmental Relations, 1333 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 400 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 293-1774 or (202) 789-8200 (202) 789-8200 , Internet: http://www.saa.org

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) is an international, non-governmental professional organization composed of 60 national committees that form a worldwide alliance for the study and conservation of historic buildings, districts, and sites. The United States Committee of ICOMOS (US/ICOMOS) helps to exchange technical preservation information and expertise, and highlights the American preservation system. US/ICOMOS Newsletter is published monthly, ICOMOS Information quarterly, and publications are updated regularly in the US/ICOMOS Booklist.

International Council on Monuments and Sites, United States Committee, 1600 H Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036 (202) 842-1866 Internet: http://www.icomos.org

Housing

Building Officials and Code Administrators (BOCA) (published the BOCA National Building Code and other National Codes) is now the International Code Council. In 2003, more than 190 years of combined building and fire safety code development and 30 years of anticipation for one organization to produce codes for use across the country and around the globe became a reality when BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI consolidated to become the International Code Council. Internet: http://www.icbo.org

The Center for Community Change helps low-income groups develop strong community organizations. A broad range of assistance is offered, including organizational development, coalition assistance, help to groups in raising money, and working with them to rehabilitate housing and revitalize neighborhoods. The Center publishes a quarterly newsletter and technical publications.

Center for Community Change 1000 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20007 (202) 342-0519 Internet: http://www.communitychange.org

The Center for Neighborhood Technology, a non-profit research, public policy, and technical assistance organization, seeks affordable, locally controlled ways for city residents to meet needs for housing, energy, jobs, and a healthy environment. Six program divisions make up the Center: energy services, housing services, neighborhood investment, industrial development, public issues, and The Neighborhood Works newsletter.

Center for Neighborhood Technology, 2125 West North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647 (773) 278-4800 Internet: http://www.cnt.org

The Housing Assistance Council (HAC) is a service organization that works to increase the availability of housing for low-income people in rural areas. It administers a revolving loan fund, provides technical assistance, undertakes research and training programs, and publishes booklets on housing issues and programs. The Council also publishes HAC News, a biweekly newsletter.

Housing Assistance Council, 1025 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 606 Washington, DC 20005 (202) 842-8600 Internet: http://www.ruralhome.org/

The International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) is a nonprofit service organization owned and controlled by its member cities, counties, and states. The ICBO’s aims are to publicize, maintain and promote the Uniform Building Code and its related documents, develop uniformity in regulations pertaining to building construction, educate the building official, and formulate guidelines for the administration of building inspection departments. Membership in ICBO is open to all governmental units as well as other segments of the building construction industry. ICBO publishes a periodical, Building Standards, but its primary publication is the Uniform Building Code and its related volumes. ICBO operates five regional offices.

International Conference of Building Officials, 5360 South Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601 (562) 699-0541, Internet: http://www.icbo.org

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), a federation of more than 800 state and local builder associations, monitors state and local legislation, offers technical and legal assistance, and sponsors educational seminars and conferences.

National Association of Home Builders, 1201 15th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005 (202) 822-0200, Internet: http://www.nahb.com

The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) is a professional association for housing and community development professionals. The association publishes the Journal of Housing, NAHRO Monitor newsletter, and a catalog of housing related books.

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, 1320 18th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20036 (202) 289-3500, Internet: http://www.nahro.org

The National Community Development Association (NCDA) is composed of more than 450 local governments that administer federally supported community/economic development, housing, and human service programs. NCDA works through its members to counsel at the federal level on new program design and current program implementation. Members receive up-to-the-minute mailings of federal legislative and administrative developments.

National Community Development Association, 522 21st Street, N.W., Suite 120 Washington, DC 20006 (202) 293-7587 Internet: http://www.ncdaonline.org/

Planning

The American Planning Association (APA) represents the interests of planning and planners. APA dues support the development of planning policy, public information, and fellowships and awards. Members belong to a local chapter with its own conferences, meetings, and newsletters. APA publishes books through its own Planners Press. These books and others in the field of planning are available through the Planners Bookstore in Chicago. APA Publishes Planning magazine, APA Journal, Land Use Law & Zoning Digest, and Zoning News. APA’s Planning Advisory Service (PAS) provides members with PAS reports which cover subjects of current interest to practicing planners; the Memo, a monthly bulletin; and access to a national data bank of zoning and subdivision ordinances, agency reports, books and periodicals.

American Planning Association, 1776 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Suite 704 Washington, DC 20036-1904 (202) 872-0611 (202) 872-0611 Internet: http://www.planning.org

APA Planners Bookstore, 1313 East 60th Street Chicago, IL 60637 (312) 955-9100

The Council of State Community Development Agencies, a membership association consisting primarily of state agencies, addresses the common interests and goals of states with respect to community and economic development, housing, public works assistance, and state-local relations.

Council of State Community Development Agencies, Hall of States Building, 444 North Capitol Street, N.W. Suite 251 Washington, DC 20001 (202) 624-3630 Internet: http://www.coscda.org

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) is the national grassroots organization that serves as the spokesman for the nation’s nearly 3,000 soil and water conservation districts. Its activities are aimed at advancing the resource conservation cause of the local districts and the millions of cooperating landowners and land managers whom they serve. The NACD operates five regional offices in addition to its Washington, DC headquarters. NACD keeps its members and subscribers informed through the Tuesday Letter and The District Leader, both monthly newsletters. The Conservation Technology Information Resource Center is a clearinghouse for information on soil and water conservation and water quality practices on cropland.

National Association of Conservation Districts, 509 Capitol Court, N.E., Washington, DC 20002 (202) 547-6223 Internet: http://www.nacdnet.org

The New York Planning Federation was formed in 1937 to address municipal planning and zoning issues. With nearly 11,000 members today, it maintains an emphasis on education and assistance. Affiliated with the American Planning Association, the organization promotes sound planning, community development and land use practice throughout New York. It also administers the New York Main Street Alliance and the State Association of County Planning Directors. New York Planning Federation 44 Central Ave. Albany, NY 12206 (800) 366-6973 Internet: http://www.nypf.org/

New York Parks and Conservation Association (NYPCA) is a statewide 2,500-member non-profit citizens organization dedicated to protecting and promoting New York’s parks, open space, and historic treasures and helping communities create new forms of park lands, such as greenways, community trails, and heritage corridors.

New York Parks & Conservation Association, 29 Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207 (518) 434-1583 Internet: http://www.nypca.org/

Planning Commissioners Journal & PlannersWeb is an internet based journal and clearinghouse of information on planning and community design in America. The site provides and excellent source of links to planning related sites, as well as a well written and informative (but not free) library of journal articles many aspects of planning.

PlannersWeb: http://www.plannersweb.com/

Rural Development

The Center for Rural Affairs works to help low-income people, is concerned about the well-being of small, moderate-sized, and beginning farmers, and particularly focuses on Nebraska and neighboring states. The center publishes Small Farm Advocate, a quarterly newsletter, and Center for Rural Affairs, a monthly newsletter.

Center for Rural Affairs, 101 S. Tallman St. P.O. Box 406, Walthill, NE 68067-0405 (402) 846-5428 (402) 846-5428 , Internet: http://www.cfra.org

The Community and Rural Development Institute (CaRDI) at Cornell University works to enhance life quality and social and personal well-being for the people of New York State. CaRDI links professionals and elected officials who share a concern for community development and policymaking, especially in rural communities. CaRDI brings together Cornell University departments and programs, Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations, local governments and community organizations to cultivate creative collaborations that bridge traditional institutional boundaries.

The Community and Rural Development Institute, Cornell University, 43 Warren Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 (607) 255-9510 http://www.cardi.cornell.edu

The Heartland Center for Leadership Development is an independent, nonprofit organization developing local leadership that responds to the challenges of the future. A major focus of the Center’s activities is practical resources and policies for rural community survival. Programs and publications stress the critical role played by local leadership in facing challenges. The Center’s practical programs include training communities, businesses, and organizations in developing the capacity for locally directed strategic planning, helping policy-makers clarify key questions in the future of communities and states, and conducting field-based research related to leadership and its potential impact.

Heartland Center for Leadership Development, 941 O Street, Suite 920, Lincoln, NE 68508 (800) 927-1115 FAX: 402-474-7672, Internet: http://www.heartlandcenter.info/

The Highlander Research and Education Center, an adult education center, has been developing curriculum materials for adults on economic development and the changing economy of the Appalachian region. The Highlander Economics Education Project was developed to help people in rural Appalachian communities understand the changing economy and develop ways of dealing with the economy and community economic development. The project has included developing resource materials, conferences, and community workshops.

The Highlander Center, 1959 Highlander Way, New Market, TN 37820, Tel: (423) 933-3443 (423) 933-3443 Fax: (423) 933-3424, Internet: http://www.hrec.org

The Institute for Community Economics (ICE) has a range of programs, which assist the efforts of community residents to gain control over and benefit from local economic development. ICE has developed the community land trust and loan fund models to address the problems of lower-income communities suffering from limited access to land, housing, and capital. ICE also provides community organizational and development assistance to community groups and public agencies around the country. The Institute is responsible for Community Economics, a quarterly newsletter, as well as other publications.

The Institute for Community Economics, 57 School St., Springfield, MA 01105-1331 (413) 746-8868 (413) 746-8868 , Internet: http://www.iceclt.org

The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents the more than 3,000 county governments in the United States. Its goals are to improve county government, act as a liaison with other levels of government, serve as a national spokesperson for counties, and advance public understanding of the role of counties.

National Association of Counties, 440 First Street, N.W., Suite 800 Washington, DC 20001 (202) 393-6226, Internet: http://www.naco.org

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), a national grassroots network, promotes locally based economic development organizations in America’s small cities and rural areas. NADO members include multi-county planning and development organizations, state, county and city agencies, educational institutions, and private businesses. Member organizations engage in activities designed to create and maintain private sector jobs. For up-to-the-minute information, NADO publishes special reports and NADO News, a weekly newsletter, and conducts an annual conference and regional training workshops.

National Association of Development Organizations, 444 North Capitol Street, N.W., Suite 390, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 624-7806 FAX: (202) 624-8813, Internet: http://www.nado.org

The National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) is a membership organization for regional councils across the country, with affiliate membership for other public and private organizations with an interest in planning, development, and governance at the regional level. Representing the nation’s more than 500 regional councils, NARC serves as the national source of information for and about regional councils. NARC holds an annual conference which provides a forum for information exchange and an annual Washington Policy Conference in Washington, DC Among the several publications produced by the association are weekly and bi-weekly newsletters and special reports.

National Association of Regional Councils, 1700 K Street, N.W., Suite 1300, Washington, DC 20006, (202) 457-0710 (202) 457-0710 , Internet: http://www.narc.org

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) is a nonprofit organization composed of commissioners, secretaries and directors of the Departments of Agriculture in the fifty states and four trust territories. NASDA’s purpose is to provide a voluntary, non-political organization to promote unity and efficiency in administration of agricultural statutes and regulations, to develop cooperation between departments of comparable agencies with the United States Department of Agriculture and with persons interested in agriculture, and to establish federal-state cooperative programs to promote agricultural interests.

National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, 1156 15th St. N.W., Suite 1020, Washington, DC 20005 (202) 296-9680 FAX: (202) 628-9461, Internet: http://www.nasda.org

The National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT), a membership organization, offers technical assistance, educational assistance, and public policy support to local government officials. The association publishes tenissues per year of NATaT’s Reporter.

National Association of Towns and Townships, 1522 K Street, N.W., Suite 730, Washington, DC 20005, (202) 624-3550 (202) 624-3550 , Internet: http://www.natat.org

Part of The National Association of Towns and Townships, The National Center for Small

Communities (NCSC) is the only national, non-profit organization devoted exclusively to serving the leaders of America’s smaller communities. The mission of the NCSC is to provide small town decision makers with the tools to govern effectively and the skills to expand local economies, protect natural resources and preserve community character.

National Center for Small Communities, 444 N. Capitol Street, NW, Suite 208, Washington, DC 20001-1202, Phone: (202) 624-3550 (202) 624-3550 , Internet: http://www.smallcommunities.org/ncsc/

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) represents the national interests of rural electric systems. NRECA provides legislative services and programs in management training, insurance, public relations, and advertising. Two major publications of NRECA are Rural Electrification magazine and the Rural Electric Newsletter, which reports mainly on legislative and governmental matters. The association and its members also support supplemental energy and environmental research and administer a program of technical advice and assistance in the development of rural electric systems in 37 countries.

National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, 4301 Wilson Blvd., Arlington,VA 22203-1860, (703) 907-5500 (703) 907-5500 , Internet: http://www.nreca.org

The New York State Rural Development Council is a non-partisan forum for identifying, discussing and taking action on issues affecting rural New York. It is a partnership made up of members from federal, state, tribal, private, nonprofit, local government and educational organizations. The council has an excellent website identifying a variety of resources available to rural communities in New York State .

New York Rural Development Council, 400P Eggers Hall, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244-1090, Tel. (315) 443-5844 (315) 443-5844 , Fax (315) 443-1075, Internet: http://www.nysrdc.org

The Regional Centers for Rural Development coordinate rural development throughout the United States by assisting the process of public and private decision making by encouraging and conducting multi-disciplinary research, extension, and educational programs. These activities are designed to improve the social and economic well-being of non-metropolitan communities in the regions. Publications, conferences, interest networks, research projects, and program development assistance coordinated by the Centers facilitate a strong rural development effort. Four regional centers serve the country, the following targeting the needs of the northeast:

Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development, 7 Armsby Bldg., The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802-5602, (814) 863-4656 (814) 863-4656 , Internet: http://www.cas.nercrd.psu.edu

The Small Towns Institute is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to collecting and disseminating information on new and innovative ideas concerning the issues and problems facing small towns and non-urban areas. The institute publishes Small Town, a news journal containing perspectives from a variety of sources that share a common interest in enhancing the future of small communities.

Small Towns Institute, P.O. Box 517, Ellensburg, WA 98926, (509) 925-1830 (509) 925-1830

The Townscape Institute, Inc. is a nonprofit public interest organization concerned with increasing the livability of cities, towns, and neighborhoods through the conservation, interpretation, and enhancement of the man-made environment. Program areas include townscape planning and interpretation, urban design and public art, preservation education, and environmental advocacy through lectures, publications, films and exhibits.

The Townscape Institute, Inc., 8 Lowell St., Cambridge, MA 02138, (617) 491-8952 (617) 491-8952 , Internet: http://www.townscape-inst.com/

State and Federal Agencies

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in the U.S. Department of the Interior is responsible for the management of 341 million acres of public lands located primarily in the West and Alaska, in addition to scattered parcels in other states. BLM manages this land for multiple use and sustained yield. Land use plans are developed with public involvement to provide orderly use and development while maintaining and enhancing the quality of the environment.

Bureau of Land Management, 18th and C Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20240, (202) 208-5717 (202) 208-5717 , Internet: http://www.blm.gov

The Cooperative State Research, Education, & Extension Service (CSREES) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture coordinates and provides administrative, technical, and other services to a nationwide Cooperative Extension System, in partnership with state and local governments and the private sector. The primary function of this system is to take the research findings of the Department of Agriculture, the state land-grant colleges and programs administered by the Department of Agriculture, and to develop and deliver informal, out-of-school educational programs. These programs communicate and demonstrate to people how they can apply research findings to identify and solve farm, home, and community problems. The goal of the Extension Service Revitalizing Rural America program is to expand rural jobs and incomes.

CSREES, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 14th and Independence Avenue, S.W.,Washington, DC 20250 202-720-2791, Internet: https://www.usda.gov/topics/rural/cooperative-research-and-extension-services

The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) advises the President on environmental matters, oversees the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act, and prepares an annual report on the state of the environment.

Council on Environmental Quality, Old Executive Office Bldg., Room 360, Washington, DC 20502, (202) 456-6224 (202) 456-6224 , Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/CEQ/

The Economic Development Administration (EDA), part of the Department of Commerce, aids the long-range economic development of areas with severe unemployment and low family income problems. EDA assists in the development of public facilities and private enterprise to help create new, permanent jobs.

Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th & Constitution Avenue, Room 7800B, Washington, DC 20230, (202) 482-5081 (202) 482-5081 , Internet: http://www.doc.gov/eda/

The Rural Development Program, within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), operates several federal programs designed to strengthen family farms, finance new and improved rural housing, develop community facilities and infrastructure, and create and maintain rural employment. USDA Rural Development provides financial assistance to rural people and communities who cannot obtain commercial credit at affordable terms. FmHA administers several programs that assist farmers or rural communities in general.

USDA Rural Development, Stop 0705, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington D.C. 20250-0705, (202) 720-4323 (202) 720-4323 , Internet: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/aboutrd.html

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), an independent agency of the federal government, was created to encourage and assist the nation’s cultural resources. It provides information about the arts, their artistic and financial health, and the state of their audiences. NEA awards grants through its Design Program to individuals, nonprofit organizations, and local governments for projects that promote excellence in architecture, landscape architecture, and community design. Through its Folk Arts Program, NEA awards grants for documenting folklife traditions. The objective of the Expansion Arts Program of the Rural Arts Initiative is to strengthen rural arts organizations.

National Endowment for the Arts, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20506, (202) 682-5400 (202) 682-5400 , Internet: http://www.arts.gov

The National Park Service (NPS), of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is the principal federal agency responsible for preservation law and activities. The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, with amendments, creates the basic framework for community preservation planning and provides the legal structure for the retention of historic properties. The Act established the National Register of Historic Places to recognize, identify, and evaluate significant historical properties. The federal government provides funding for the National Register listing and for the federal review process and provides incentives to encourage reuse of income-producing historic properties. The Recreation Resources Assistance Division of the National Park Service administers the Rivers and Trails Conservation Program, which consists of planning and technical assistance that protect the nation’s rivers, trails, and greenway corridors; expands recreation opportunity; and builds institutional capability for conservation. The programs provide technical assistance to states, local governments, and private interests through statewide river and trail activities, river and trail corridor planning, and rails-to-trails programs.

National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240, (202) 208-6843 (202) 208-6843 , Internet: http://www.nps.gov

National Register of Historic Places: (202) 343-1572 (202) 343-1572 Internet: http://www.cr.nps.gov/places.htm

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS),(formerly the Soil Conservation Service or SCS), within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, develops and carries out a national soil and water conservation program in cooperation with landowners, operators, other land users and developers, community planning agencies and regional resource groups, and federal, state, and local government agencies. NRCS assists in agricultural pollution control, environmental improvement, and rural community development. It is also responsible for the Resource Conservation and Development Program (RC&D), which develops local capability to operate and maintain a planning and implementation process for local projects.

USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Community Assistance and Rural Development Division, STOP 2890, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 6013-South Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20250-2890, Phone: (202) 720-2847 (202) 720-2847 Fax: (202) 690-0639, Internet: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov

NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12233-1011 518-485-8940 Fax 518-457-7744 Internet: http://www.dec.state.ny.us

The New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) functions and duties generally are as follows: Coordinate and develop comprehensive transportation policy for the State; coordinate and assist in the development and operation of transportation facilities and service including highway, railroad, mass transit, port, waterway and aviation facilities and formulate and keep current a long-range, comprehensive statewide master plan for the balanced development of commuter and general transportation facilities, both public and private.

NYS Department of Transportation, Governor Harriman State Campus, Building 5, Albany, NY 12232 (518) 457-6195 Internet: http://www.dot.state.ny.us

Technical Services Division (518) 457-4445 (518) 457-4445

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Albany, New York 12238 (518) 474-0456 or (518) 486-1899 (518) 486-1899 (TDD) Internet: https://www.parks.ny.gov/

The Rural Utilities Service (RUS), part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administers programs that are intended to ensure that rural America has reliable and affordable electrical, telecommunications, and water utility service. The Electric Program of the RUS makes insured loans and guarantees of loans to nonprofit and cooperative associations, public bodies, and other utilities. Insured loans primarily finance the construction of facilities for the distribution of electric power in rural areas. RUS telecommunications lending creates public - private partnerships to finance the construction of the telecommunications infrastructure in rural America. RUS also helps develop water and waste disposal (including solid waste disposal and storm drainage) systems in rural areas and towns with a population not in excess of 10,000. The funds are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, special-purpose districts, Indian tribes, and corporations not operated for profit. RUS also guarantees water and waste disposal loans made by banks and other eligible lenders.

Rural Utilities Service, USDA Rural Developmen,t Stop 0705 - 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington D.C. 20250-0705, (202) 720-4323 (202) 720-4323 , Internet: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rus

The Small Business Administration (SBA) protects the interests of small business by ensuring that small business concerns receive a fair proportion of government purchases, contracts, and the sale of government property. The SBA provides funds to small business investment companies that make equity and venture capital investments and supply advisory services and counseling to small businesses. The Small Business Loan Program is a loan guarantee made through local banks to those creditworthy small businesses which have a reasonable chance of repayment. Both the Small Business Institutes (SBIs) and Development Centers (SBDCs) provide counseling and training to small business clients.

Small Business Administration, 409 3rd St., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20416, 1-800-U-ASK-SBA 1-800-U-ASK-SBA , Internet: http://www.sba.gov

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Community Planning and Development administers the major federal community development, economic development, housing rehabilitation, and homeless shelter programs. These programs provide a comprehensive array of community assistance to state and local governments. HUD gives grantee governmental units latitude to insure that local spending decisions meet local needs, although based on national program objectives. Among HUD’s programs are the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)/Small Cities Program and the Rental Housing Rehabilitation Program.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20410, (202) 708-1422 (202) 708-1422 , Internet: http://www.hud.gov

Historic Preservation Information: (202) 755-6610 (202) 755-6610 Rehabilitation Loans: (202) 755-0367 (202) 755-0367

The United States Forest Service, within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, promotes and achieves a pattern of natural resource use that will best meet the needs of people now and in the future. Among the Service’s tasks are the generation of forest opportunities to accelerate rural community growth, the protection and improvement of the quality of air, water, natural beauty, and open space environment in urban and community areas, the encouragement of growth and development of forestry-based enterprises and optimum forest land ownership patterns, the expansion of environmental conservation, and the involvement of the public in forestry policy and program formulation.

United States Forest Service - USDA, Auditors Building 201, 14th Street, S.W. at Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20024 (202) 205-1760, Internet: https://www.fs.usda.gov/

Center for Community Design Research Resources