The Fish and Boat Commission Monday announced it is now accepting grant applications to improve water quality, aquatic habitat enhancement, and recreational access in the Tulpehocken Creek and Quittapahilla Creek watersheds in Berks and Lebanon counties.

The deadline for applications is September 30.

The Tulpehocken Creek watershed encompasses 219 square miles in Lebanon and Berks counties and includes Blue Marsh Reservoir. The Quittapahilla Creek watershed covers 77 square miles in Lebanon County.

Only project proposals located within these two watersheds will be considered.

For 2016, priority will be placed on projects that improve aquatic habitats for fisheries or provide information on aquatic habitats or water quality directly influencing fisheries that can guide management decisions.

Other eligible projects will be considered, but will be given lower priority.

Grants can be used for stand-alone projects or to supplement other funding for larger projects that are designed to improve aquatic habitat, water quality, or recreational use.

Examples of acceptable activities include: fishery habitat restoration or enhancement; fish stocking; fishing access; maintenance or creation of facilities to encourage, improve or expand recreational use of the fishery; or studies related to these issues.  

This funding is made available through a settlement agreement between the PFBC and PPL Ironwood, L.L.C., related to the operation of an electric generation facility located in South Lebanon Township, Lebanon County.

Applications must be sent to the PFBC headquarters, 1601 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110 by no later than 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 30, 2016.  Successful grant recipients are expected to be notified by early December.

For more information about applying for this grant program, visit the PFBC’s Tulpehocken & Quittapahilla Watershed Grant Program webpage or contact Diana Marie Day,  PFBC, by calling 717-346-8137 or send email to: diday@pa.gov. 

8/8/2016