Great Lakes Mini Grants in Action

FROM YOUTH FIELD DAYS TO COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS, THE GREAT LAKES COMMITTEE OFFERS GRANTS TO SUPPORT PROJECTS

This past year, the Great Lakes Committee awarded two mini grants to support innovative conservation efforts through the Great Lakes Grant Program. These grants enabled impactful programs in Superior and Shawano County, showcasing creative ways to engage communities in natural resource stewardship.

The City of Superior’s Environmental Division of Public Works, in collaboration with the Douglas County Land and Water Conservation Department, used their mini grant to enhance their rain barrel workshop program. The workshop featured educational presentations by Bobbie Webster, Douglas County Land and Water Conservationist, and Megan Högfeldt, Water Resources Specialist with the City of Superior

Environmental Services Division of Public Works. They highlighted how managing stormwater at home can reduce runoff and improve water quality in the Great Lakes and the St. Croix River. Participants received rain barrels, along with hands-on instructions for assembly. The mini grant funded the purchase of 32 rain barrels, with 15 barrels distributed to workshop attendees in 2024. One barrel was used as a demonstration model, and the remaining 16 will support a second workshop planned for summer 2025.

The Shawano County Land Conservation Department used mini grant funds to support their Shawano County Youth Conservation Field Day events. This year’s event, held in September at the Navarino Nature Center, welcomed 225 5th grade students. Students spent the day outside, learned about careers involving natural resources, and participated in a variety of activities designed to showcase the importance of conservation and preservation practices. The Great Lakes mini grant funds supported the purchase of eco-friendly reusable water bottles that were given to students participating in the field day. Shawano County promoted the need for reducing our consumption of single-use plastic water bottles so that collectively, we can make a difference.

The Great Lakes Committee plays a vital role in promoting county land and water programs that protect, conserve, and enhance the Great Lakes Basin’s natural resources. These grants are made possible through voluntary contributions from member counties. By continuing to support this program through annual dues, we can ensure the longevity of these valuable initiatives.

For more information about the Great Lakes Grant Program and how you can contribute, visit: wisconsinlandwater.org/members-hub/committees/ greatlakes/great-lakes-grant-program