PFBC SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR EDUCATION GRANTS

PFBC SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR EDUCATION GRANTS

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is encouraging local governments, community groups and sportsman’s clubs providing fishing, boating and water safety and aquatic resource education programs to apply for funding through the agency’s Education Grant Program. Grantees can receive up to $5,000 from the PFBC. This funding can be applied to the purchase of equipment, materials and costs associated with field trips. Applications must be postmarked by January 30, 2010.

“Re-engaging youth in outdoor activities is critical to the future of boating, sportfishing and building a more environmentally connected citizenry,” says PFBC Executive Director Doug Austen. “Research clearly shows that good, well-structured youth fishing and boating programs lead to kids increasing their interest in fishing and boating, improving their skills, and helping them build a greater sense of aquatic stewardship and outdoor ethics. It’s not enough for us as an agency to talk about wanting more and better programs to involve Pennsylvania’s youth in fishing, boating, and aquatic education. Funding must be made available for programs and services benefiting youth, and this grant program is a start.”

The education grant program started in June 2006. Since then, the Commission has received more than 161 applications requesting nearly $670,000. More than 50 organizations have received $230,000 through the Education Grant Program.

Applications must be postmarked by January 30, 2010. Successful applicants will be notified by April 15, 2010. Applications, program rules and eligibility information are available on the Commission’s website at www.fishandboat.com or by calling 717-705-7842.

The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.