The Daily Freeman reports that State Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced April 17 $1.45 million in smart growth grants for communities and nonprofit agencies in the Adirondack and Catskill state parks. The DEC defines smart growth as a renewal of land use patterns that once came naturally and provide a balance between development and preservation. This is the sixth round of smart growth grants in the area, and $1.5 million has already been awarded in the Catskill Park. The DEC is looking for projects that link environmental protection, economic development, and community livability within the state forest preserves. Applications are available at http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/press.html. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.