The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District announces a mini-grants program open to youth groups and tied to the annual Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge showcase initiative.

THE DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED, to Friday, March 3, for the newly established HSWCD mini-grants program. According to HSWCD Executive Director Betty Jo Tompkins, up to eight, $250 mini-grants will be awarded. The purpose is to support youth conservation programs created and executed by Hillsborough County students enrolled in K-12 public, private, parochial, charter, home and virtual school programs.

Each grant recipient will receive $250 toward their project, with funds generated from the 2022 HSWCD Great Plant Auction. The auction is held annually at the Hillsborough County Fair. Participating groups can be a club, chapter, troop, class or any youth group (church, civic, etc.), or any group of at least four youths with an adult supporter.

Programs, projects and activities can focus on any type of conservation effort, including road, river and bay cleanups; recycling of paper, plastics and electronics; wildflower and tree plantings; pollinator initiatives; community and school gardens; agricultural enhancements; wildlife habitats; and educational programs at fairs, festivals, schools and other events.

Judges will review the applications, rank and award grant recipients by Tuesday, Feb. 28. Recipients will be announced as well at the 2023 Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge Kickoff Luncheon, scheduled for noon to 2 p.m. April 13 at The Regent in Riverview.

For more, contact HSWCD Executive Director Betty Jo Tompkins at 813-477-8332.

Email: bjt6890@yahoo.com.