New grant implements trees and forestry in watershed protection plans
Communities, agencies and organizations interested in water quality are eligible to apply
Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Grant, which helps communities enhance their active watershed protection plans.
The grant will support up to 15 recipients over a five-year period to implement the tree and forestry components of watershed protection plans previously approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality or the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board.
Municipalities, public utility districts, state agencies, nonprofit organizations, nongovernmental organizations, tribal entities and community-based organizations are eligible.
Applicants must provide nature-based solutions that increase strategic tree cover and protect water quality, while also enhancing access to urban tree canopy and its associated health, environmental and economic benefits.
Interested parties can explore the eligibility map and apply for the Watershed Protection Plan implementation grant. Applications for the grant will be accepted through Nov. 30.
Watershed protection planning
A watershed protection plan is a framework for implementing integrated water quality protection and restoration strategies driven by environmental objectives.
“Watershed protection plans are critical for communities and ecosystems as they protect drinking water sources, manage flood risks and promote sustainable development,” said Karl Flocke, Texas A&M Forest Service water resources program leader. “Watershed protection planning is locally driven, and this grant will help fund the necessary steps for communities to enact their plans.”
PHOTO: Adding strategic tree cover can protect water quality. The Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Grant funding to support entities in enhancing their plans. (Texas A&M Forest Service)
