Programs currently accepting applications:

Pennsylvania River Sojourn Mini-Grant Program

Pennsylvania River Sojourns are guided paddling trips, sponsored by POWR with funding support through the PA Department of Conservation of Natural Resources and the American Canoe Association. Grants are available on a competitive basis for single and multi-day paddling events on Pennsylvania’s rivers. Events must incorporate significant educational programming and be open to all participants (i.e., private trips are not eligible). Grants funds are distributed based on the number of on-water days, with up to $900 given per on-water day for multi-day sojourns and $500 for single-day sojourns.

Submissions Due: March 15, 2021 by 5 p.m. For more information and to apply, visit the “Apply” link below.

2021 Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Mini-Grant Program

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) has been awarded a grant  from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, (DCNR) to administer the 2021 Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Mini-Grant Program. This program will provide mini-grants of $1,000 to $7,000 for projects within Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties that support and advance the goals of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape (LHCL).

Priorities: Projects should complement the mission to foster conservation and stewardship of the natural and man-built environments while promoting sustainable economic development through outdoor recreation as described in one or more of these topics:

• Land Conservation: : Support planning and protection of additional land in the Laurel Highlands through strategic assessment of ecological, location, and viewshed priorities.
• Water Conservation: Advance protection and conservation of water resources for potable water, recreation, and ecosystem sustainability.
• Trails: Support planning and development of trails and trail networks to enhance recreation and economic growth, and promote livability, and healthy lifestyles.
• Tourism, Outdoor Recreation: To connect outdoor recreation to tourism amenities and local communities to expand the visitor experience and foster cross-promotion.
• Infrastructure Maintenance and Development: To support priority infrastructure projects that enhance the visitor experience and economic viability of the Landscape.
• Climate Resilience: Elevate understand of climate change, its impact on the Landscape, and support efforts to respond to the changing environment.
• Communication: Build awareness of initiatives that support LHCL mission and goals amongst a variety of audiences including partners, residents, visitors, elected officials, business persons.

Applications Due: April 2, 2021, 7:00 p.m. For more information and to apply, visit the “Apply” link below.