King County offers grants for natural resources projects

King County is offering grants of up to $50,000 to schools, non-profit groups and local governments to promote stewardship of our wild places, protect salmon or to display the benefits of clean water and water conservation.

"These funds go a long way by developing and strengthening partnerships with community organizations and local governments," said Ken Pritchard, King County Grant Exchange Program coordinator.

"On average, every dollar invested through grants is matched by three dollars in cash and in-kind contributions. This leverage makes projects possible that couldn't be done alone," Pritchard said.

The deadline to apply for a grant for more than $2,500 is May 1. Proposals will be accepted in two categories:

• Water quality and water-dependent habitat. The maximum award is $50,000 for projects in urbanized areas of King County, and $20,000 for projects in rural areas of the county.
• Upland habitat restoration or forestry projects. The maximum award is $10,000.

For more information on the grant program or to receive an application, contact Pritchard, 206-296-8265, or Denise Hess, 206-296-1975. Applications and information are also available through the King County Grant Exchange Web site, http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wlr/pi/grants.htm.