WV DEP Announces Availability of Grants to Improve Stream Health

The West Virginia Stream Partners Program is accepting grant applications from community groups interested in improving local stream health.
More than $130,000 is available this year through West Virginia’s Stream Partners Program. Community-based watershed associations wishing to implement a watershed improvement project may apply for up to $5,000. The deadline to apply for grants is April 16.
According to Stream Partners Program Coordinator Jennifer Pauer, volunteers have used the money in the past for everything from stream monitoring to environmental education.
"Watershed groups can make a big difference in their communities with their Stream Partners funds," said Pauer. "The money and expertise that the program provides helps create awareness for the groups and encourages others to join them to make a difference in the water quality in their communities."
Pauer says that groups in the state are supported by the Department of Environmental Protection and the West Virginia Conservation Agency.
"If a group or citizen would like to get involved in watershed protection, Stream Partners offers assistance through five regional basin coordinators," said Pauer. "Basin coordinators have the expertise to assist citizens with watershed planning, project development, grant writing, partnership building and community education."
The Stream Partners Program, established in 1996 and housed within the DEP, is a cooperative effort among four state agencies – the Division of Forestry, the Division of Natural Resources, the Conservation Agency and the DEP.
These agencies provide support and resources in many areas including project planning and technical advice. Their representatives also serve on the Stream Partners Program Review Team, which determines grant allocations each year.
For more information on the Stream Partners Program, the
2008-2009 grant application process, or the organization of watershed groups, call the Stream Partners hotline at (800)
654-5227 or e-mail Pauer at Jennifer.Pauer@wv.gov.
To apply online visit http://www.wvca.us/stream.cfm.