STATE GRANTS AWARDED TO PROTECT/PRESERVE ENVIRONMENT

HARRISBURG, OCT. 31 – State Sen. Connie Williams announced that several grants were awarded to organizations in the 17^th Senatorial District.

"These grants will aid in preserving and protecting the environment, which contributes greatly to the quality of life that everyone enjoys," Williams said. "I commend the organizations, governments and others that qualified for one of these grants for their efforts."

A grant for $120,374 was awarded to Radnor Township under the state's Recycling Performance Grant program. The award was based on the 4,870.3 tons recycled in the township for calendar year 2004. The program is administered through the Department of Environmental Protection.

A number of Community Conservation Partnerships Program grants were awarded in the 17^th District, as well:

• Schuylkill River Greenway Association -- $75,000 for development of four Gateway Information Centers within the Schuylkill River Heritage Area at four state parks.

• Natural Lands Trust -- $50,000 to prepare a conservation management plan for three Natural Lands Trust Nature Preserves.

 The Community Conservation Partnerships Program grant program is administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The goal of the program is to provide financial and technical assistance to local governments, river and trail organizations, land trusts and other nonprofits for the planning, acquisition and development of park, recreation, conservation and greenways projects.