Apply now for enviromental project support

by Keith Powell — September 13, 2013

The Johnsons Landing Community Association was able to plant live stakes as part of a rehabilitation project thanks in part to CBT support.

Columbia Basin groups wishing to help maintain or enhance environmental conditions in and around their communities are invited to submit project ideas to the Environmental Initiatives Program (EIP) of Columbia Basin Trust (CBT). The application deadline for large grants (projects up to $30,000) is October 15, 2013.

The Johnsons Landing Community Association is one of the organizations that has benefited from EIP support. This past spring, it was able to initiate a project to rehabilitate the site of the 2012 landslide.

Several sections of the slide were planted with live deciduous tree stakes, and the site was fenced to protect new vegetation from ungulates in the area. The group plans to stabilize more areas of the slide using natural methods in the fall.

“This project began with a large percentage of the stakes taking root and thriving and is a very positive and hopeful sign for the community that the land has begun to settle and stabilize and allow for new growth to take hold,” said Deb Borsos, Recovery Manager, Johnsons Landing Slide. “The Regrowth Project most likely would not have taken place without the considerable help and guidance from the CBT Environmental Initiatives staff assisting us in its design and scope, for which we are grateful.”

“Projects like this make a real difference to both the local environment and the residents of the area,” said Rick Allen, CBT Program Manager, Environment. “We welcome other community-initiated and -supported project ideas to be sent our way for consideration.”

Over the past 12 years, EIP has provided over $5 million in funding for environmental conservation, restoration, stewardship and education projects across the Basin. For more information on how to apply, visit cbt.org/eip.

CBT supports efforts to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit cbt.org or call 1.800.505.8998.