The PA Trout Unlimited is now accepting applications for its 2013 Trout in the Classroom Grants  for the 2013-2014 school year  Applications are due March 30.

Trout in the Classroom is an interdisciplinary program in which students in grades 3 through 12 learn about coldwater conservation while raising brook trout from eggs to fingerlings in a classroom aquarium.  All classrooms end the year by releasing their trout into a state approved waterway.

Grant applications are available in two categories, as follows:

-- Trout in the Classroom Start-Up Grants are awarded to teachers who have formed a partnership  with a 501(c)(3) conservation organization. The start-up grant provides essential equipment necessary to start a Trout in the Classroom program. A cash match of $400.00 is required if the grant is funded, and the grantee will need to provide a 55-gallon aquarium and lid (partnering organizations are encourage to provide the matching funds).

-- Trout in the Classroom Existing Grants are awarded to teachers and conservation organizations which have an existing program in place. The maximum amount of this grant is $500 for specific replacement equipment, TIC support materials (e.g., books, videos, multi-media) and classroom field trip expenses.

Pennsylvania’s statewide TIC program is made possible through a unique partnership between PA Council of Trout Unlimited and the Fish and Boat Commission.

Grant applications and additional program information is available on the PA Trout in the Classroom website at.   For more information, contact Samantha Kutskel at 814-359-5233 or send email to: c-skutskel@pa.gov. 

2/25/2013