Pocono Mini-Grants Announced

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 3, 2017

Contact: Janet Sweeney,

Phone: 570-718-6507

Email: [email protected]

 

Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape Announces 2017 Mini-Grantees

 

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), Under the Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape, and with funding provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resource, PEC has been implementing a mini-grant program within the Landscape since 2010. The mini-grant program funds projects that support the PFW Landscape goals of Conservation, Connections and Community.

2017 mini-grants have been awarded to ten projects:

 

  • Anthracite Scenic Trails Association – This project involves the design and construction of a loop trail and extension to the existing Back Mountain Trail in Luzerne County. The grant will fund required subdivision activities that are necessary for ASTA to accept a land donation.
  • Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of IHM – This project involves the purchase and installation of interpretive signage about stormwater management, conservation and restoration of natural resources highlighting examples of installed green infrastructure at the facility in Lackawanna County.
  • Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor –The D&L will be conducting a Phase II Corridor Analysis that would further study an intersection of the D&L trail in Oliver Mills and Laurel Run Borough, Luzerne County to determine the safest way to design the trail crossing.
  • Lacawac Sanctuary & Field Station – Lacawac’s Nature Access for All project will promote the inclusion of all people especially those with special needs in outdoor programming and recreation at the Sanctuary in Wayne County. The project provides everyone the opportunity to recreate, enjoy and learn in the outdoors.
  • Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority – LHVA will develop a Lackawanna River Heritage Trail Map Brochure that will include a detailed map of the trail, containing information about navigating the trail, green spaces, wildlife, historic sites, and other points of interest.
  • Pennsylvania State University -This project supports the Master Watershed Steward Program in Northeastern PA. The program, coordinated by Penn State Extension, trains community volunteers in a formal 40+ hour program, completes structured group projects, and engages volunteers. The grant will fund implementation projects for Master Watershed Steward Trainees.
  • Smithfield Township –The Township will establish a self-guided trail at their Mount Nebo Regional Park in Monroe County. They will produce a tri fold brochure as well as install trail markers, boundary signs, interpretive signs, 1 property identification sign, and 2 road signs.
  • Suskie Bassmasters – The organization will purchase and install 5 park benches along the bank overlooking the Susquehanna River in Nesbitt Park, Luzerne County. The placement of the benches will provide excellent views of the river, flora, and the Wilkes-Barre City skyline.
  • Riverfront Parks Committee – This project provides support for the committee’s continuing mission of building environmental stewardship through providing educational programming during their signature events such as RiverFest, Earth Day, Chalkfest, River Clean‐ups, and Family Fishing Days.
  • Wilkes University – The University will conduct a 3-day Environmental Science camp in August 2017 for 9th‐ 11th grade students utilizing Frances Slocum State Park, the Back-Mountain Trail and Wilkes‐Barre River Commons and will educate students on air and water quality while promoting conservation and environmental stewardship.

 


 

About the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is a statewide organization that brings people, government, and business together to find real world solutions for environmental challenges. These solutions bring about sustainable communities, protect our water resources, and address energy and climate issues. PEC was founded in 1970 and serves the entire state through offices in Luzerne, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia.

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