The Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape Initiative, with funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, announced the award of 10 mini-grants to support projects that advance the PFW Landscape goals of Conservation, Connections and Community.

The grants were awarded to:

-- Anthracite Scenic Trails Association: This project involves the design and construction of a loop trail and extension to the existing Back Mountain Trail in Luzerne County. The grant will fund required subdivision activities that are necessary for ASTA to accept a land donation.

-- Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of IHM: This project involves the purchase and installation of interpretive signage about stormwater management, conservation and restoration of natural resources highlighting examples of installed green infrastructure at the facility in Lackawanna County.

-- Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor: The D&L will be conducting a Phase II Corridor Analysis that would further study an intersection of the D&L trail in Oliver Mills and Laurel Run Borough, Luzerne County to determine the safest way to design the trail crossing.

-- Lacawac Sanctuary & Field Station: Lacawac’s Nature Access for All project will promote the inclusion of all people especially those with special needs in outdoor programming and recreation at the Sanctuary in Wayne County. The project provides everyone the opportunity to recreate, enjoy and learn in the outdoors.

-- Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority: LHVA will develop a Lackawanna River Heritage Trail Map Brochure that will include a detailed map of the trail, containing information about navigating the trail, green spaces, wildlife, historic sites, and other points of interest.

-- Pennsylvania State University: This project supports the Master Watershed Steward Program in Northeastern PA. The program, coordinated by Penn State Extension, trains community volunteers in a formal 40+ hour program, completes structured group projects, and engages volunteers. The grant will fund implementation projects for Master Watershed Steward Trainees.

-- Smithfield Township: The Township will establish a self-guided trail at their Mount Nebo Regional Park in Monroe County. They will produce a tri fold brochure as well as install trail markers, boundary signs, interpretive signs, 1 property identification sign, and 2 road signs.

-- Suskie Bassmasters: The organization will purchase and install 5 park benches along the bank overlooking the Susquehanna River in Nesbitt Park, Luzerne County. The placement of the benches will provide excellent views of the river, flora, and the Wilkes-Barre City skyline.

-- Riverfront Parks Committee: This project provides support for the committee’s continuing mission of building environmental stewardship through providing educational programming during their signature events such as RiverFest, Earth Day, Chalkfest, River Cleanups, and Family Fishing Days.

-- Wilkes University: The University will conduct a 3-day Environmental Science camp in August 2017 for 9th‐ 11th grade students utilizing Frances Slocum State Park, the Back-Mountain Trail and Wilkes‐Barre River Commons and will educate students on air and water quality while promoting conservation and environmental stewardship.

The mini-grant program is administered by the PA Environmental Council.

For more information on the program and related initiatives, visit the Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape Initiative webpage.

For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the PA Environmental Council website, visit the PEC Blog, follow PEC on Twitter or Like PEC on Facebook.  Visit PEC’s Audio Room for the latest podcasts.  Click Here to receive regular updates from PEC.

(Photo: Successful project supported by previous Mini-Grants: Delaware Highlands Conservancy Green Lodging Partnership, Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, Delaware, Monroe County.)

[Posted: August 10, 2017]

8/14/2017