New York's Department of Environmental Conservation is giving away tree and shrub seedlings for planting near streams, rivers, or lakes to help stabilize banks, protect water quality, and improve wildlife habitat. "Small-scale streamside plantings can help decrease erosion, slow floodwaters, and protect fish and wildlife habitat," said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. "We encourage New York landowners with waterside properties to participate in DEC's 'Buffer in a Bag' program to bolster our efforts to protect water quality and safeguard communities from flooding." Landowners must have property in New York State with at least 50 feet bordering a stream, river, or lake, and provide photos or a map of the planting location to get the seedlings. Previous recipients are encouraged to reapply. Applicants are eligible for one bag of 25 seedlings and recipients are chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The Hudson River Estuary program offers additional assistance with streamside planting projects. More information is available at the Department of Environmental Conservation website.