Community Newspaper for Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo, Washington

Funds available for volunteers

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is looking ways to spend $1.6 million to be distributed a grants.

“This funding is specifically earmarked for volunteer programs,” said Dave Gadwa, coordinator of WDFW’s Volunteer Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Program. “It’s designed to help volunteers cover costs.”

Individual grants, which in past years have ranged from $300 to $75,000, are for projects approved by the agency such as habitat restoration, improving access to fish and wildlife areas for disabled persons, research, public education and fish-rearing projects. Grant funding cannot be used for wages or benefits.

The first deadline for applying for the funds is April 30, 2001. For applications, contact Gadwa at 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, Wash. 98501-1091.