Funds available for outdoors education programs

HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is looking for sportfishing, boating and aquatic education programs that could use some financial assistance. As part of its efforts to re-engage youth, the PFBC is offering grants to organizations and local agencies involved in providing these types of programs.

Grantees can receive up to $5,000 as part of the PFBC’s Sportfishing and Aquatic Resource Education Grants. This funding can be applied to the purchase of equipment, materials and costs associated with field trips.

“Re-engaging youth in outdoor activities is critical to the future of boating and sportfishing and to building a more environmentally connected society,” said PFBC executive director Doug Austen. “Research clearly shows that well-structured youth fishing and boating programs lead to kids increasing their interest in fishing and boating, improving their skills and building a greater sense of aquatic stewardship and outdoor ethics.

This year, the commission awarded 10 grants from 18 applicants totaling approximately $50,000; in 2007 it awarded 18 grants from 47 applicants, totaling approximately $67,000. A list and description of funded projects can be found on the PFBC website at www.fish.state.pa.us/grants.htm.

The deadline for submitting grant applications is January 31, 2009. Successful applicants will be notified by April 15, 2009, and funding will be awarded four to eight weeks after all agreements are finalized.

For more information visit fishandboat.com or call 717/705-7835.