Science & Outdoors
Natural Resources Foundation accepting applications for 2009 conservation grants
The Pointer
kbose675@uwsp.edu
If your organization or club is searching for funding for small-scale conservation projects, the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin is currently accepting applications for the 2009 C.D. Besadny Conservation Grant.
The grant, named after former Department of Natural Resources Secretary “Buzz” Besadny, provides matching grants of up to $1500 to private and public organizations and government agencies. These agencies will be awarded a grant based on their projects in conservation that promote the responsible stewardship of Wisconsin’s natural resources at the local level.
The NRF will be giving funding priority in 2009 to projects aligned with the Foundation’s conservation priorities. These priorities include: rare and endangered species protection, state natural area restoration and management, invasive species control and environmental education and outreach.
In 2008, the NRF awarded over $29,000 to 31 projects throughout the state. These projects ranged from a bluebird trail at Boscobel area schools to a prairie restoration by the Monona School District and a citizen-based water quality monitoring program run by the Friends of Milwaukee’s Rivers.
The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin is a non-profit organization based in Madison. For more than 20 years, the Foundation has worked with citizens, businesses, non-profits and the government to promote the production and enjoyment of Wisconsin’s public lands, waters and wildlife.
Grant applications need to be postmarked by Jan. 15, 2009. The awards will be distributed in March of 2009. People interested in applying for a Besadny Conservation Grant can obtain an application by visiting the NRF’s Web site at wisconservation.org or by contacting Theresa Guida at 866-264-4096 or theresa.guida@wisconsin.gov.
