The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF) is accepting grant applications to the Northern Chautauqua Environmental Fund. Applications must be received by Jan. 10, 2019, at 4 p.m.

This fund was established in 1999 to bring attention to local environmental issues, particularly those related to Lake Erie and its watershed. Funding is available for a broad range of environmentally related educational activities, including awareness building events, hands-on educational experiences, and stipends for internships and lectures. Previous grants have supported the annual Envirothon, the purchase water testing supplies, the planting natural grasses and trees, STEM projects, student-led research, and a wide variety of environmental projects.

“Thanks to a 2018 Environmental Grant from the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, 328 public school children from eight area schools enjoyed ‘Field Days’ at the Greystone Nature Preserve. The day-long program covered everything the students liked best about nature — trees, bugs and birds,” said Diane Clark, Greystone. “Throughout the day, the children experienced a sense of awe, appreciation, and stewardship of nature.”

Grant awards typically average $500. All nonprofit organization with educational projects related to Lake Erie and its watershed are encouraged to apply as well as educational institutions and other public agencies.

To obtain additional information or an application, contact Eileen Ardillo at 366-4892, eardillo@nccfoundation.org, or visit the NCCF website at www.nccfoundation.org/grants-programs.

The NCCF, incorporated in 1986, is a tax-exempt charitable organization. Since its establishment, the NCCF has distributed more than $14 million in the community through its various grant programs. It is an organization inherently committed to enriching the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 366-4892.