Applications available for 2008 environmental education grants

HARRISBURG, PA — Applications are now available for the 2008 Environmental Education Grants Program, administered by the Department of Environmental Preservation (DEP). The grants support projects and programs that increase environmental awareness, understanding and stewardship. Any school, university, non-profit group or county conservation district in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania may apply.

Significant changes have been made to the 2008 grant program, including an increase in the amount of mini-grants from $2,000 to $3,000 and the addition of a new grant track category, school outdoor learning resources. In addition, teacher preparation programs that meet academic standards for environment and ecology and science and technology may apply for funding under the “Conservation and Education Organizations and Institutions” open track. The standards are state-mandated and provide a roadmap for what students must know about the environment by the end of fourth, seventh, 10th and 12th grades.

To request an application, write to the DEP Environmental Education Grants Program, P.O. Box 2063, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2063; or call 717/772-1828. For more information or to download an application, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: EE Grants. Pre-application letters must be postmarked by Friday, December 14 to be considered.