Community members who want to make a positive impact on the water resources in their area may apply online for a Community Education Grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
The goal of the District’s Community Education Grant program is to actively engage adults in water-related issues pertaining to conservation, protection and preservation. Funded by the District’s Basin Boards, the program is intended to motivate communities to get involved in watershed protection through various activities and educational formats. Grant recipients may receive up to $5,000 to help fund their water resources education projects.
To apply, visit the District’s web site at WaterMatters.org/communitygrants. The electronic application allows applicants to save, review and change portions of their proposal before submitting. Grant applications are due Aug. 21, 2009.
Individuals interested in organizing an education project for their neighborhood, community group or members of the general public are encouraged to apply.
Potential projects should provide education on any or all of the following issues: water quality, water conservation, flood protection, natural systems and watersheds. Examples of past projects include stormwater pond restorations, cleanups, watershed education fairs and showerhead exchange programs.
The projects must take place between March 1 and July 31, 2010.
To discuss project ideas, please call Robin Grantham at 1-800-423-1476, ext. 4779.
In addition to grant funding, a variety of free materials are available and can be ordered on the District’s web site at WaterMatters.org/publications/.