SWCD Announces Conservation Mini-Grants

COOPERSTOWN—The Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District is currently accepting applications for conservation mini-grants for conservation-related projects and programs conducted by educational institutions, not-for-profit organizations, and municipalities.

“We ran this mini-grant program once before, a couple of years ago, and it was very well received and successful,” said SWCD Board Chair Meg Kennedy. “We know there are lots of good ideas out there that just need a little extra help to get underway, and that’s what we hope to provide,” she added.

A wide range of projects will be considered, officials said, but they must be directed to conservation of natural resources in Otsego County. Examples include, among others: trail installation or improvement; trailhead kiosks; educational signage or brochures; native wildflower plantings; agricultural projects; habitat improvement; renewable energy planning or installation; greenhouse gas reduction; recycling centers; and educational outreach.

Applicants should submit a description of two pages or less of the project or program for which they are seeking support, including project or program goals, a budget, an explanation of how the program or project will achieve the goals, and a description of measurable outcomes.

Mini-grant awards will be paid out as reimbursements for budgeted items of projects or programs completed within 18 months of award, after submission of a close-out report including itemized invoices and proofs of payment.

The application deadline is Wednesday, May 7. A total of $10,000.00 is available, with each successful applicant receiving up to $1,000.00. Award decisions will be made on Monday, May 12.

For more information, contact District Manager Christos Galanopoulos at (607) 547-8337, extension 4, or e-mail galanopoulosc@otsegosoilandwater.com.