New Jersey Conservation Foundation decided to do something a little different this year with its annual Franklin Parker Community Conservation Grants.

Inspired by the national conversation on race and equity, the foundation pledged to direct 100 percent of the grants, which are funded by the Victoria Foundation, to support organizations working to advance environmental justice, said Michele S. Byers, the Foundation executive director, when announcing the grant recipients.

Warren County-connected groups to receive the grant included the Foodshed Alliance, based out of Hope; the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, which represents many Warren County communities; and Ridge and Valley Conservancy, based out of Blairstown.

Both the Coalition and Conservancy will be supporting Munsee Three Sisters Medicinal Farm in Sussex County with the grant. Members of the Turtle Clan of the Ramapough Lunaape Nation run the farm, where they grow traditional foods and medicinal plants.

The Coalition’s grant project supports teaching and interpretation programs at the farm, which is located on Munsee Farm at Muckshaw Preserve. The Conservancy’s grant will support a fencing project on the farm property, which will act as a deterrent to deer and increase crop yield.

Munsee Three Sisters Medicinal Farm is also part of Foodshed Alliance’s Sustainable Agriculture Enterprise program. The Alliance’s grant will be supporting broader efforts to provide affordable long-term leases on New Jersey preserved farmland. The project intends to increase the number of farmers of color operating organic farm businesses.

“Safe and accessible outdoor spaces, access to fresh local food, clean water, and clean air are essential to the health of every New Jersey community. Unfortunately, communities of color throughout New Jersey disproportionately suffer from air and water pollution and too often lack equitable access to greenspaces and community gardens,” said Byers. “I was impressed and inspired by the many strong and dedicated conservation organizations across the state that are using their talents to bring people together and advance environmental justice.”