Community Notes 02-16-2011

1. Abandoned Crab Trap Removal Operation Set. From February 18-27, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials and volunteers will be removing all abandoned crab traps from Texas bays. During the 10-day period, the bays will be closed to crabbing and any trap left will be assumed to be abandoned. To read more, visit http://archive.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/?req=20110210a.
2. “Go Green” Film Project. You and your organization have the opportunity to be involved in the “Go Green” Film Project, which will film in Houston from February 18-20. It is an effort to create the best eco-film to educate the world on the importance of protecting the life of our planet. The producers would greatly appreciate any assistance including permission to film on your location, participants to be interviewed on behalf of your company, and donations of props and sponsorship assistance. For more information, visit https://www.48hourfilm.com/houston/.
3. EPA Community-Based Environmental Grants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making $2 million available in 2011 to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. Applications are due online by March 22. For more details, visit http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/6427a6b7538955c585257359003f0230/55003c3dbc151cd98525781e0064080f!OpenDocument. The EPA will also conduct webcasts to answer questions from prospective applicants on February 23 and March 2 from 1-3 pm.
4. Nature of Learning Grant Program. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is accepting applications for Nature of Learning Grant Program. The Nature of Learning Program is a community-based environmental education initiative that seeks to use National Wildlife Refuges as outdoor classrooms to promote a greater understanding of local conservation issues. First year grants are up to $10,000 and the deadline for applications is April 1. To learn more, visit http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_item.jhtml?id=326400023.
5. Acres for America. Acres for America was established to provide funding for projects that conserve important habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants through the acquisition of interest in real property. The program will make approximately $2.5 million in total funding available annually through 2014 for conservation investments. Applications for the program are now being accepted with a deadline of April 1. For more guidelines, visit http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_item.jhtml?id=326400022.
6. Keep Texas Beautiful Seeks Nominations for Annual Awards. The Keep Texas Beautiful Award recognizes the efforts of volunteers, school groups, military installations, media outlets and local businesses. Applications are due by 5 p.m. CST on Monday, February 28. To learn more, visit http://www.ktb.org/programs/awards/keep-texas-beautiful-awards.aspx.
7. The Green Awards. Funding is available for sustainability initiatives. From January 20, 2011 through March 6, 2011, the Green Awardsâ„¢ is taking online entries in four categories that were chosen to focus on local social initiatives to provide an immediate level of consumer interest through community support. To learn more, visit http://www.apwa.net/SuperPush/index.asp?ID=203.