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

Applications are due December 15.

The partnership will award grants of up to $5,000 to organizations to outline strategies that best conserve and protect our coldwater fisheries.

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 information can then be used as a catalyst for more comprehensive planning or for development of watershed improvements projects.

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

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

The Partnership was formed to provide technical assistance and funding support for the evaluation, conservation and protection of Pennsylvania’s coldwater streams.

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 PATU Coldwater Resource Specialist Deborah Nardone at 814-359-5233, or visit the Coldwater Conservation Grants Program webpage .

12/1/2006