Missoula nonprofit gains $32k environmental education grant

Grant supports environmental education of Montana teens

Contact: EPA: Lisa McClain-Vanderpool (303)312-6077; Wendy Dew (303)312-6605; EPI contact: Kelsey Stamm (406)721-8784, kelsey@ecologyproject.org

(Denver, Colo.-August 25, 2011) The E.P.A. has awarded Ecology Plan International (EPI), based in Missoula, Mont., an environmental education grant of $32,200 to carry out a hands-on field science and conservation plan for Montana teens. The plan will partner teens with field-based researchers studying climate-change and biodiversity protection issues as part of EPI's Yellowstone Wildlife Ecology program. In addition to building stewardship and a foundation in environmental sciences, teens will be involved in plans that will help enhance habitat, protect endangered species and inform land management in the area.

"Environmental Education grants are extremely competitive and this year's grantees represent the best of the best," said Wendy Dew, E.P.A. Region eight environmental education coordinator. "These are innovative plans that will advance community awareness and shape the next generation of environmental stewards."

Under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, E.P.A. has the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community groups, tribes, schools and universities. More information about EPA's environmental education grants plan is accessible at http://www.epa.gov/education/grants.html.