PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson County is accepting applications for projects to protect open spaces in the county through its Conservation Futures Program.
Applications are open to private citizens, citizen groups, governmental agencies, special purpose districts and non-profit corporations within Jefferson County.
According to a press release, approximately $235,000 is available in the 2020 funding cycle, up to $41,000 of which is available to reimburse operations and maintenance expenses for any property acquired with the Conservation Futures Fund.
Project sponsors must match at least 50 percent of total project costs with non-county funds such as private donations, state or federal grants or the value of open space lands linked to the project.
Projects should address one or more of the following functions:
• Protecting wildlife habitat and corridors
• Conserving cultural resources
• Maintaining natural flood water control
• Protecting water quality, water supply and soils
• Enhancing or protecting scenic views
• Providing opportunities for education and passive recreation
• Perpetuating the benefits of balanced and productive natural systems
Applications will be reviewed in the spring by the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee.
The committee evaluates project applications for their public benefit and makes recommendations to the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners who, after a public hearing, decide which projects to fund.
Presentations about the program and past projects can be viewed online at www.tinyurl.com/PDN-Open-Space.
The deadline for applications is Friday, March 27.
For more information or an application, call Tami Pokorny at 360-379-4498 or email tpokorny@co. jefferson.wa.us.
