The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority is now accepting applications for grants to all of the schools in its watershed for projects the help improve the health of the watershed.
Conservation Educator Denise Iszczuk says the grants provided by Nextera Energy are for as much as $500, and can go towards tree or garden planting on school property or somewhere in the community.
Iszczuk says ideally they would like to see projects that can be done within the school year and projects that are realistic and attainable measurable outcome.
Schools can apply for one of two categories -- "Creating Awareness" or "Taking Action."
The Taking Action category can include projects that monitor, implement, or research water, soil, and living things such as clean water diversion including rain gardens; controlling erosion; enhancing wildlife habitat; grassland restoration and enhancement; improving streams; planting native trees and shrubs; wetland restoration and enhancement; creating a living snow fence; cleanups; and collecting and reporting on environmental features including performing a tree inventory.
The deadline for submitting applications for Watershed Champions projects is February 12th and the winners will be announced at the end of February.
"There are a lot of potential projects that a school might be looking at, but we're looking for something realistic and attainable and something maybe they've been thinking about at their school for a long time and we can help maybe with part of a greater project," says Iszczuk.
