The Coldwater Heritage Partnership announced it is now accepting applications for the Coldwater Conservation Grants Program to protect and conserve the health of Pennsylvania’s coldwater ecosystems.

Applications for grants up to $5,000 will be accepted through December 16.

The CHP Program is a cooperative effort of Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the Fish and Boat Commission.

Watershed groups, conservation districts, municipalities and local chapters of Trout Unlimited are eligible to apply.

The grants are designed to help develop conservation plans that identify the values and threats to the health of coldwater ecosystems that have naturally reproducing trout. The collected information can be used as a catalyst for more comprehensive planning or for development of watershed improvements projects.

The Coldwater Heritage Partnership was formed to provide technical assistance and funding support for the evaluation, conservation and protection of Pennsylvania’s coldwater streams. The partnership will award grants of up to $5,000 to organizations to outline strategies that best conserve and protect our coldwater fisheries.

Besides offering grants, CHP works to: foster greater public understanding of watershed characteristics and how they affect coldwater ecosystems; identify special areas of concern, such as areas with exceptional water quality and high potential for impacts; and provide technical assistance and financial opportunities to organizations dedicated to protecting our coldwater ecosystems.

For more information, contact Deborah Nardone, PATU Coldwater Resource Specialist, at 814-359-5233, or visit the Coldwater Heritage Partnership website.

9/23/2005