The DeSoto County Parks and Recreation Department will receive a $5,000 Community Education Grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District for a three-part environmental education program.
The $5,000 grant is for “Picking up the pieces on the Peace River,” a three-part environmental education program for DeSoto County residents. The program consists of a one-hour educational program, a guided canoe cleanup of the Peace River and the installation of interpretive signs. The program will reduce pollution in the Peace River, as well as teach park visitors about the proper way to dispose of trash so it does not impact the water resources. Approximately 13,000 people visit the park each year.
The overall goal of the 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.
The DeSoto County project is funded by the Peace River Basin Board, which includes portions of Charlotte, Hardee, DeSoto, Highlands, and Polk counties.
These grants provide up to $5,000 to help fund projects that provide communities an opportunity to learn about water resources.
This year the District awarded 38 grants Districtwide for a total of $136,598. This is the 11th year Community Education Grants have been available.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s 2009 Community Education Grant Program will begin its application process in June 2008. For more information, please call the District’s Communications Department at 800-423-1476 or 352-796-7211, ext. 4757.