At the UGRWCD, we believe that most residents of our District understand the importance of responsible water use and water conservation, but sometimes an educational program or creative communication can help remind us all or teach youngsters this important concept.  The District can help facilitate such programs and communications through its Mini-Grant Program.

“Perhaps a teacher needs some equipment for a water lab project or an artist needs some supplies for his art class to create artwork on water awareness,” said UGRWCD General Manager Sonja Chavez.  “The District is here to help through our simple Mini-Grant Program.”

Chavez noted that these grant funds are available for projects across a wide spectrum of curriculum and can be requested by private citizens, school or university faculty, home schools, preschools, watershed groups, art centers, or other resource organizations that have a message to share about water. RE1J Watershed School District and Western Colorado University students may apply as well. Examples of past projects that were funded include interpretive signs along the Mustang Pond at Gunnison Middle School, U.S. Forest Service request for supplies for the Water Education Trailer owned by the District and shared with partners, and water wader boots for Crested Butte Community School.

The Mini-Grant program can provide up to $300 annually per applicant to support projects designed to expand awareness of water-related issues in the District.  Applications can be filled out online and submitted via email or printed off and mailed back to the District. This includes private citizens, school or university faculty, home schools, preschools, watershed groups, art centers, or other resource organizations that have a message to share about the value of water. RE1J Watershed School District and Western Colorado University students may also apply.  You can access the application and guidelines directly here: https://ugrwcd.org/mini-grants/.