Got a great idea to help restore Tampa Bay or its watershed, but just need a little bit of help?
Now is the time to apply for a Mini-Grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary program which will help local community groups – from schools and scouts to neighborhood associations – make a difference in Tampa Bay.
Applications for the grants – which range from $500 to $5,000 (plus one special $10,000 award for a hands-on waterfront habitat restoration project) – are due on Sept. 17 by 3 p.m. First-time applicants, however, should plan on attending a webinar on Wednesday, August 22 at 3 p.m. to learn how the Mini-Grants work.
“We are looking for community involvement that makes more people aware of the issues still facing Tampa Bay,” said Misty Clades, TBEP project manager. “The Bay is healthier than it has been in decades, because people have made commitments to improving water quality. Empowering people to change their everyday behaviors helps foster community values to protect Tampa Bay..”
Over the years, more than $1.7 million in grants have been given to organizations as diverse as homeowners associations that restore retention ponds or remove exotic plants to schools that plant hydroponic vegetable gardens or marsh grasses. Funding is provided through sales of the Tampa Bay Estuary specialty license tag.
The special $10,000 habitat restoration award is new this year. It must include a community involvement component and result in quantifiable habitat restoration increases. Project examples include shoreline planting, installation of oyster domes or the creation of a living shoreline.
To reserve a spot at the webinar, email Misty@tbep.org. For more information, including an online application form, visit http://www.tbep.org/bay_mini-grants.html.