The Coldwater Heritage Partnership Wednesday announced it is now accepting applications for its two Coldwater Conservation Grant Programs to help protect and conserve the health of Pennsylvania’s coldwater ecosystems.  Applications are due December 16.

The two grant opportunities are:

-- Planning Grant-- designed to help develop a conservation plan that identifies the threats to the health of local coldwater ecosystems that have naturally reproducing trout as well as the opportunities for habitat restoration and conservation within those watersheds. The information and analysis can be used as a catalyst for more comprehensive planning or for development of watershed improvements projects. Planning grants average around $5,000.

-- Implementation Grant-- designed to provide funding for projects recommended in a completed conservation plan or other approved plan such as a Rivers Conservation Plan. Proposed projects must enhance, conserve or protect the coldwater stream for which the coldwater conservation plan or similar document was originally completed. Implementation grants average around $7,000.

The Coldwater Heritage Partnership urges watershed associations, conservancies, conservation districts, municipalities and local chapters of Trout Unlimited to apply.

The Coldwater Heritage Partnership provides technical assistance and funding support for the evaluation, conservation and protection of Pennsylvania’s coldwater streams. Grants will be awarded for project proposals that outline planning strategies and define implementation projects that best conserve and protect Pennsylvania’s coldwater fisheries.

In addition to its grant program, CHP strives 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 coldwater ecosystems.

The CHP is a cooperative effort among the PA Council of Trout Unlimited, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Fish and Boat Commission, and the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds.

For program guidelines and an application, visit the Coldwater Heritage Partnership Conservation Grants Program webpage.  Questions should be directed to Tali MacArthur Program Director, by calling 814-359-5233 or send email to: c-tmacarth@pa.gov.

For more information on the programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Coldwater Heritage Partnership website.

10/3/2016