Environmental Literacy Grants Available

Funding supports programs for K-12 student stream studies

Students in Carroll County assessing stream health.

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to include more Maryland students in studying, monitoring and engaging in restorative actions to improve the health of local streams through EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Implementation Grants. The grants will expand DNR’s Explore and Restore Maryland Streams, a stream stewardship and education program launched in fall 2013. Through this statewide initiative, K-12 school students investigate and take action to preserve and restore nearby tributaries, learning about their local environment while gaining real-world science and conservation skills.

“This is an exciting opportunity to expand an already successful program,” said DNR Secretary Mark Belton. “The grant will connect new partners to stream education activities to help achieve the goals of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement and Maryland Environmental Literacy requirements.”

The solicitation is looking for innovative and effective proposals that can integrate the stream program within school systems, and emphasize outdoor learning about local watersheds.

Up to $400,000 will be granted. Average awards are expected to be approximately $75,000 – 100,000 each.

Funding is available to government agencies (county, municipal, regional, state, federal) and non-governmental organizations, including academic institutions such as school systems or higher education institutions, environmental education centers or organizations, forest conservancy district boards, soil/water conservation districts, faith-based organizations, and other groups. For more information, visit http://dnr2.maryland.gov/Education/Pages/streamed.aspx.

Proposals are due online by May 22, 2015.  Awards will be announced no later than June 30, 2015.