Maryland Seeks Environmental Literacy Project Proposals

Funding Supports K-12 Stream Study and Stewardship Programs

The state is looking to engage more students in stream study and stewardship projects aimed at improving the health of local waterways. As such, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is actively seeking proposals for environmental literacy projects through Environmental Protection Agency Chesapeake Bay Implementation Grants. Projects will be evaluated based on their ability to establish strong partnerships with schools, and support state education requirements and environmental commitments.

“This exciting opportunity will connect more Maryland youth, the stewards of tomorrow, to their local waterways and provide real-world experience in the fields of conservation and science,” Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton said. “The state is really proud of its environmental literacy program, which has been recognized both nationally and internationally, and will continue to stress the importance of educating our children and youth.”

Project proposals should effectively launch or expand stream programs within Maryland school systems and emphasize learning in the classroom as well as outdoors. This includes providing professional learning to prepare teachers to lead their students in outdoor science investigations.

“This funding opportunity is an important part of carrying out environmental literacy action plans in the watershed, supporting environmental literacy requirements in schools across the state and the related goals of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement,” Director of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Program Office Nicholas DiPasquale said.

Eligible applicants include government agencies (county, municipal, regional, state and federal) as well non-government organizations and nonprofits, such as academic institutions, environmental organizations, conservation districts, faith-based organizations and more. Click here for full details.

Proposals are due online by April 22 and will be awarded by July 1, 2106. Approximately $200,000 will be awarded, with each award expected to average $50,000 to $75,000.