GROWING GREENER GRANT FUNDS TO BENEFIT 17^TH SENATORIAL DISTRICT

 HARRISBURG, MARCH 6 – State Sen. Connie Williams announced that the latest round of Growing Greener grant funds would bring nearly $240,000 to the 17^th Senatorial District.

 "Safeguarding the environment and making strides to preserve Pennsylvania's natural resources is not just sound policy," Williams said. "Pennsylvania's natural resources support the health and well-being of all of its citizens and contribute to the overall economic vitality of the state."

 Receiving grants in the 17^th District are:

• Villanova University -- $185,000 to improve upon its wetland management practices

• Friends Central School -- $50,000 to restore riparian parkland areas near Indian Creek.

 Williams commended the grant awardees.

 "The students who are making these positive environmental stewardship initiatives happen are truly creating Pennsylvania's environmental future," Williams said. "Pennsylvania is fortunate to have a wealth of environmental resources, which not only contribute to our quality of life, but also make the Commonwealth a great learning environment. It is everyone's responsibility to do their part to protect these resources."

 During the latest Growing Greener grant round, $22.3 million was awarded to fund 124 projects to clean up rivers, streams and watershed resources.