Pennsylvania DCNR to Offer Series of Workshops, Web-based Grant Application Seminars

HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Bureau of Recreation and Conservation is offering a workshop and web-based seminar to prepare applicants for the next round of its Community Conservation Partnership Grants Program. Also, the first of a new seminar series will address efficient storm-water management. The first seminar is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 9.

The 2012 grant application round opens Jan. 11 and closes April 4. The process will rely exclusively on an electronic application process, known as DCNR e-Grants, which will offer more efficient service to applicants while streamlining applications and eliminating once-voluminous paperwork.

"Training opportunities offered in the upcoming weeks will prove invaluable to community leaders, consultants, board members, and park and recreation professionals," said DCNR Deputy Secretary for Conservation and Technical Services Cindy Dunn. "These workshops and seminars are designed for anyone interested in learning about resources available to plan, acquire and construct public recreation and conservation areas in their communities."

In addition to the grant training opportunities, DCNR also will conduct the first of several web-based seminars, or webinars, as part of its newly initiated training series on "Green and Sustainable Practices," said Dunn, who oversees the Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.

With an eye toward continued streamlining of its 2012 grant application process, DCNR again will offer a new series of free public workshops designed to facilitate participation in the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, popularly known as "C2P2." Dates and meeting places of these six statewide workshops in February and March will be announced at a later date.

DCNR's C2P2 grants provide funding for the planning, construction, and acquisition of public parks, trails, and conservation areas. Applications require submission of documents and forms that often take significant lead time to prepare.

"Both the webinar and grants workshop will foster a better understanding of eligible projects, eligible applicants, application requirements, and a general overview of the eGrants application process," Dunn said.

"Meanwhile, our second webinar is focusing on Lancaster, a model of cost-effective and responsible strategies to address storm-water runoff and combined sewer overflow in a green and sustainable way," noted Dunn. "Participants will learn of the best storm-water management practices that can be implemented in their communities."

The series will offer:

• Webinar: "Funding Opportunities with Community Conservation Partnership Program (C2P2) Grants and PENNVEST Grant and Loan Program." Specifically geared for potential grant applicants seeking details on resources available for funding "green" infrastructure in parks and open spaces, the session will be offered from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9; 
• Workshop: "Obtaining Resources for Public Parks, Conservation Areas, and Trail Systems." Held in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Society's (PRPS) fall membership meeting, the session will be offered from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 16, at Stuart Community Center, 415 Franklin St., Carlisle, Pa.;
• Webinar: "City of Lancaster's Green Infrastructure Plan/Storm Water Best Management Practices."  Offered from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 8, the session will take a close look at Lancaster where the city's combined sanitary/storm sewer system allows polluted water to flow into the Conestoga River and Chesapeake Bay.

Pre-registration is required for all sessions. To register, go to:   http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/Calendar/view_event.asp?CalendarID=22385&Location=List. Once registered, a confirmation email containing further instructions will be forthcoming. For additional information, contact Linda Manning at [email protected] or 717-783-4736.

Media Contact: Terry Brady, 717-772-9101

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources