The Splash! mini-grant program provides teachers with funding to enhance student knowledge of freshwater resources issues.
This is the twelfth year that the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has offered Splash! mini-grants. Last school year there were 209 projects funded throughout the SWFWMD, totaling approximately $417,000 and impacting 287,000 students.
The six categories in the Splash! mini-grant program are based on priority issues in the SWFWMD’s basins. They are water conservation, water quality, watersheds, alternative water sources, flood protection and natural systems.
Splash! mini-grants offer up to $5,000 per school on a reimbursement basis only and are available to public, private and homeschool teachers, grades pre-K through 12. Teachers may apply individually or as a group.
Past mini-grant projects include student monitoring of local water quality, field trips and outreach campaigns designed to promote awareness of water-conserving practices. Check out the Featured Grant Projects section for additional ideas.
Because of extended periods of low rainfall and the fact that the hydrologic conditions have not rebounded as anticipated, funding from the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Splash! mini-grants will not be allowed for new plantings during the upcoming grant cycle (2009–2010 school year).
The District continues to support the use of Florida-friendly landscaping principles. However, with the current rainfall deficit, we encourage new plantings to occur during the rainy season, when rainfall can supply water needed for new plant establishment. The traditional rainy season falls outside the grant cycle.
In brief, projects should:
For additional expectations, check out the Writing Your Application and Expectations of Grant Recipients sections.
