Informational workshop to be held October 4, 2021; Screening Applications due December 10, 2021
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) announces the availability of over $3 million for environmental conservation in Franklin County through the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund. This fund provides assistance for the acquisition of green space and the protection and enhancement of river and stream corridors.
“The benefits of open spaces are enormous – they provide clean air and water, support different levels of ecosystems, among others. To accrue these benefits, we need to protect and preserve our open spaces, sensitive ecological areas, and stream corridors.”
Projects to provide or enhance access to properties previously acquired with funds from the program are also eligible for funding. Local governments, park and recreation districts, conservancy districts, soil and water conservation districts, and nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply.
The Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) administers the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund. Franklin County comprises District 3 of the OPWC. The District has formed a Natural Resources Assistance Council to review funding applications and select applications for approval using the selection methodology it has established.
“District 3 has a wonderful competitive history with this program, and we have been able to protect and enhance quality green spaces and stream corridors across Franklin County for the public to enjoy."
A virtual workshop for potential applicants will be held on October 4, 2021, at 1:30 p.m.
Interested applicants are invited to submit a preliminary screening application to determine if their project is eligible and to receive constructive comments for the final application. The deadline for the screening application is due on December 10, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. The final application must be received by March 11, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.
Applications and information are available on the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission’s website at https://www.morpc.org or for more information click here.
For questions or to schedule time to discuss this funding program, contact Edwina Teye at eteye@morpc.org or 614.233.4233.
