These regulations implement the Environmental Protection Act, title 9 of article 54 of the Environmental Conservation Law. In enacting the Environmental Protection Act, the New York State Legislature found that preservation, enhancement, restoration, improvement and stewardship of the State's environment are among the government's most fundamental obligations and that appropriate actions to make the State's invaluable natural and historic resources available for public use, enjoyment or benefit are key components of the environmental and social policy of the State. And, it further found the State has the capacity to protect the environment and public health, safety and welfare by providing assistance to State agencies, public benefit corporations, public authorities, municipalities and not-for-profit corporations for park, recreation, historic preservation or heritage area projects.