{"id":56568,"date":"2023-02-17T15:19:12","date_gmt":"2023-02-17T23:19:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=56568"},"modified":"2023-02-17T15:19:12","modified_gmt":"2023-02-17T23:19:12","slug":"coastal-commission-awards-2-million-in-whale-tail-grants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=56568","title":{"rendered":"Coastal Commission Awards $2 Million in Whale Tail Grants"},"content":{"rendered":"

SAN FRANCISCO, February 17, 2023<\/strong>.\u00a0 On Wednesday, February 8, the California Coastal Commission approved 56 Whale Tail Grant applications totaling more than $2 million to non-profit organizations, community groups, and schools for projects and programs that provide educational experiences focused on coastal protection, public access, and environmental justice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnce again, the range of proposals funded by the Whale Tail grants reminds us of how important the coast is to all Californians, regardless of race, zip code, age, orientation, or ability,\u201d said Coastal Commission Chair Donne Brownsey. \u201cThis funding opens doors, expands horizons, and inspires life choices.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Whale Tail Grants<\/a> are supported by drivers who purchase Whale Tail License Plates, as well as California Taxpayers who \u201cCheck the Coast\u201d at tax time with contributions to the Protect Our Coast and Ocean Fund. Over the past 20 years the Commission has awarded an average of $350,000 annually across approximately 20 grants, primarily for projects that provide opportunities for inland, rural, and historically excluded communities to experience and learn about the coast and ocean and develop leadership, stewardship, and science-based skills.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In 2021the Legislature appropriated an additional $10 million for the Whale Tail Grant Program, to be expended over five years. This is the second grant cycle since the new allocation, and is much higher than the average annual allocation. After several months of extensive public outreach, and guidance on how to apply for the grants, Commission staff received 149 applications. Many were first-time applicants, with innovative proposals engaging communities historically excluded from coastal education opportunities. The additional funding enabled the Commission to distribute $2,089,226.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some of first-time applications included funding for environmental education and coastal experiences for tribal youth and families, low-income LGBTQ+ adults, and youth from inland communities such as Riverside, Chualar, and San Joaquin County.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThese funds allow a whole new generation of Californians to fall in love with the coast and we hope will help them evolve into coastal stewards,\u201d said Chair Brownsey. \u201cWe want to thank everyone who has purchased a Whale Tail License Plate for making this program possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

On February 9, 2023, the Commission unanimously approved the following 56 competitive grants totaling $2,089,226 to the following organizations for these specified projects, roughly organized from south to north:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. BIPOC Support Foundation, $43,359 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Project Title: Explore Outdoors: From Your Neighborhood to the Coast<\/p>\n

    Engaging Communities in: Valencia Park in San Diego<\/p>\n

    Project Timeline: May 2023 – August 2024<\/p>\n

    A three-week summer program will engage BIPOC youth in earth and ocean sciences, climate change, sustainability, environmental justice, and the intersections of these topics with their city and local ecosystems. During the program, youth will enjoy six field trips, explore science careers, and learn about environmental programs at local colleges and universities.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Paddle for Peace, $19,600 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Project Title: Diversity in our Coastal Spaces<\/p>\n

      Engaging Communities in: City Heights, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, Spring Valley,<\/p>\n

      National City and South East San Diego<\/p>\n

      Project Timeline: March 2023 – March 2024<\/p>\n

      Ten beach events will welcome BIPOC youth and families to learn outdoor skills like surfing and beach volleyball, create relationships with mentors, increase knowledge of ocean conservation, and enjoy community at the coast.<\/p>\n

      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

        \n
      1. San Diego Children and Nature, $26,750 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Project Title: Promoting Coastal Health by Engaging Teachers in Watershed Exploration<\/p>\n

        Engaging Communities in: Coastal south San Diego<\/p>\n

        Project Timeline: March 2023 – June 2024<\/p>\n

        Formal educators will increase their environmental literacy and outdoor teaching techniques through a ten-month program where they will visit six local ecosystems and focus on science practices that inspire engaged learning, curiosity, and wonder.<\/p>\n

        \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Ocean Discovery Institute, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Project Title: Exploring the Kelp Forest and the Rocky Intertidal<\/p>\n

          Engaging Communities in: City Heights in San Diego<\/p>\n

          Project Timeline: March 2023 – March 2024<\/p>\n

          First and third grade classes in 11 schools will learn about the rocky seashore and kelp forests through a classroom lesson, a visit to the Ocean Discovery Institute\u2019s Living Lab, and a field trip to the coast, as they investigate human impacts and solutions and meet science role models.<\/p>\n

          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Outside the Lens, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Project Title: Cameras in the Outdoor Classroom<\/p>\n

            Engaging Communities in: City Heights and Barrio Logan in San Diego<\/p>\n

            Project Timeline: March 2023 – January 2025<\/p>\n

            Twelve third and fourth grade classes will engage in a 12-week environmentally-focused media arts integration program to understand how their local watershed connects to the ocean. They will share their learning through creating public service announcements and participating in in-person and virtual exhibitions of their work.<\/p>\n

            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

              \n
            1. ‘ataaxum Pomwkaan\/Community Action Service Advocacy, $33,635 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              Project Title: Returning to Our Homelands Project<\/p>\n

              Engaging Communities in: Northern San Diego County reservations<\/p>\n

              Project Timeline: March 2023 – January 2025<\/p>\n

              Native youth and their families will be engaged in reclaiming their homelands through habitat restoration projects in partnership with Buena Vista Audubon Society. Youth will take part in coursework on climate change and wetlands, including Indigenous culture and history, and four stewardship field trips.<\/p>\n

              \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
              1. Vista Community Clinic, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                Project Title: REACH Youth Coastal and Marine Education<\/p>\n

                Engaging Communities in: Vista and Oceanside<\/p>\n

                Project Timeline: April 2023 – October 2024<\/p>\n

                Middle and high school youth will take part in a yearlong afterschool program on coastal and marine conservation, with direct instruction, stewardship activities, fun and educational field trips, whale watching, fishing, and a two-night camping trip to Tijuana River Valley.<\/p>\n

                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                  \n
                1. Amigos de Bolsa Chica, $20,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                  Project Title: Reserve Watch<\/p>\n

                  Engaging Communities in: Huntington Beach and visitors<\/p>\n

                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2024<\/p>\n

                  A partnership of Amigos de Bolsa Chica, Bolsa Chica Land Trust, Bolsa Chica Conservancy, Sea & Sage Audubon, and California Department of Fish & Wildlife will recruit, train, and mobilize docents at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve during peak visitor times, seven days a week, to educate the public and protect wildlife. Handouts will be translated into Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese.<\/p>\n

                   <\/p>\n

                    \n
                  1. El Modena High School, $19,572 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                    Project Title: Ecological Research Student Funding<\/p>\n

                    Engaging Communities in: City of Orange<\/p>\n

                    Project Timeline: April 2023 – June 2024<\/p>\n

                    High school students will learn about local wetland plant communities, conduct habitat restoration, and participate in scientific research while completing a California Naturalist certification.<\/p>\n

                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      \n
                    1. Riverside Community College District Foundation, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                      Project Title: “C” to Shining Sea<\/p>\n

                      Engaging Communities in: Moreno Valley<\/p>\n

                      Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                      As part of the TRIO Programs (e.g. Upward Bound, Talent Search, Student Support Services), middle school through college level students will learn about marine and coastal stewardship, engage in related service learning projects, learn about career pathways, and take field trips to the coast.<\/p>\n

                       <\/p>\n

                        \n
                      1. Wildwoods\/Community Partners, $38,516 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                        Project Title: City and the Sea<\/p>\n

                        Engaging Communities in: Pico-Union and downtown Los Angeles<\/p>\n

                        Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                        Environmental education and ocean stewardship experiences that focus on watersheds, water science, and the impact of urban actions on the coast will engage children and their families. Three cycles of this three-part program will include a local garden component, a community walk, and a coastal exploration field trip to Leo Carillo State Beach, with all materials in both Spanish and English.<\/p>\n

                         <\/p>\n

                          \n
                        1. Outward Bound Adventures, $46,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                          Project Title: Coastal Conservation, Education, & Restoration Project for BIPOC Families<\/p>\n

                          Engaging Communities in: Watts, Northwest Pasadena<\/p>\n

                          Project Timeline: April 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                          Sixteen families will take part in \u201cTeach Me to Camp\u201d overnight camping adventures at Leo Carrilo State Beach. Activities will include exploring tide pools, family goal setting, and assisting in a restoration project at Topanga Lagoon.<\/p>\n

                          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            \n
                          1. Children\u2019s Lifesaving Foundation, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                            Project Title: Coastal Eco-Mariners Surf Camp<\/p>\n

                            Engaging Communities in: South and East Los Angeles, Mar Vista, Palms, Culver City, Boyle Heights, Pacoima<\/p>\n

                            Project Timeline: March 2023 – September 2023<\/p>\n

                            A summer camp will engage youth in fun, eco-marine education activities, art projects, guided surf therapy, boogie-boarding, and swimming at Zuma and Leo Carillo Beaches.<\/p>\n

                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                              \n
                            1. Bresee Foundation, $38,642 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                              Project Title: A Whale of a Time at Bresee<\/p>\n

                              Engaging Communities in: Central Los Angeles<\/p>\n

                              Project Timeline: March 2023 – June 2024<\/p>\n

                              Middle and high school youth, parents, and senior citizens will take part in educational activities about the ocean and ocean pollution, including sustainable seafood cooking classes, an ocean-themed book club, field trips to local aquariums and kayaking in the Channel Islands, as part of a summer day camp and school year programming.<\/p>\n

                               <\/p>\n

                                \n
                              1. Friends of Ballona Wetlands, $30,754 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                Project Title: Title 1 Schools Explore Ballona! Project<\/p>\n

                                Engaging Communities in: Los Angeles County<\/p>\n

                                Project Timeline: June 2023 – August 2024<\/p>\n

                                Elementary students will experience hands-on field trips to the Ballona Wetlands, with pre- and post-trip in-class lessons supporting teachers with grade-specific California science standards.<\/p>\n

                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  \n
                                1. DiverSeaFy, $30,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                  Project Title: DiverSeaFying the Underwater World<\/p>\n

                                  Engaging Communities in: Los Angeles County<\/p>\n

                                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – November 2024<\/p>\n

                                  BIPOC teens will receive training to achieve PADI Open Water Scuba and PADI AWARE Ocean Conservation certifications. They will conduct three cleanup dives with DiverSeaFy alumni, and enjoy two days of diving at Catalina Island.<\/p>\n

                                  \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                    \n
                                  1. Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                    Project Title: Beach Equity & Accessibility for Community Health Leadership Program<\/p>\n

                                    Engaging Communities in: Los Angeles and Ventura Counties<\/p>\n

                                    Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                    BIPOC community organization leaders will meet at the beach to discuss and explore barriers to equitable beach access and inform MRCA action toward solutions. Participating organizations will be supported to bring their own groups to the beach for a day, with amenities and activities provided for a fun, positive experience.<\/p>\n

                                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                    1. Queer Surf\/Green Cities Fund, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                      Project Title: Project ACCESS (Acknowledging Certain Costs Essential for Sustained Surfing)<\/p>\n

                                      Engaging Communities in: Los Angeles and Ventura County<\/p>\n

                                      Project Timeline: April 2023 – February 2023<\/p>\n

                                      Low income LGBTQ+ adults will have increased access to surfing through single day and overnight programming, while fostering sustained ocean belonging, connection, and relationships.<\/p>\n

                                      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                        \n
                                      1. Fernande\u00f1o Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, $47,675 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                        Project Title: Traveling Tataveaveat (TATAVIAM LAND): \u00c1h\u00ebv\u00ebve m\u00ebm\u00ebt (ON THE OCEAN SHORE)<\/p>\n

                                        Engaging Communities in: San Fernando, Santa Clarita, Simi, and Antelope Valleys<\/p>\n

                                        Project Timeline: April 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                        Native American youth will be introduced to traditional Fernande\u00f1o Tataviam villages, cultural, and natural sites, and make contemporary connections to historical sites. Youth will gain leadership skills and knowledge of local conservation efforts through aquarium visits, camping, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreation including a visit to Catalina Island.<\/p>\n

                                        \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                          \n
                                        1. City of Oxnard, $49,989 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                          Project Title: City Corps Ormond Beach Enhancement, Education, and Cleanup Program<\/p>\n

                                          Engaging Communities in: Oxnard<\/p>\n

                                          Project Timeline: June 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                          Oxnard City Corps trainees will receive education about Ormond Beach habitat and perform habitat protection and conservation work; youth in after-school programs will engage in service learning on Ormand Beach; and local residents will participate in community service learning days, removing invasive plants and trash, and planting native seeds.<\/p>\n

                                          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                            \n
                                          1. California Institute of Environmental Studies, $49,300 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                            Project Title: Ecosystem restoration focused service-learning field trips to Channel Islands National Park for Santa Paula High School Students<\/p>\n

                                            Engaging Communities in: Santa Paula<\/p>\n

                                            Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                            Santa Paula High School students will visit Channel Islands National Park for service learning at active restoration sites. Eight day-long trips and two overnight trips will take place over the course of the grant.<\/p>\n

                                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                              \n
                                            1. Ventura Audubon Society, $45,232 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                              Project Title: Ventura County Shorebird Ambassadors<\/p>\n

                                              Engaging Communities in: Oxford, Port Hueneme, Ventura County<\/p>\n

                                              Project Timeline: March 2023 – December 2024<\/p>\n

                                              Two BIPOC college students will receive paid internships and career relevant mentorships as they assist in communication and education on dune ecology and habits. Beach Naturalist training workshops will educate community volunteers who will then protect shorebirds and educate beachgoers. Two community stewardship events and two bilingual nature walks will engage the local public. Volunteer Dog Rangers will be recruited to help dog owners understand how they can protect shorebirds.<\/p>\n

                                              \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                \n
                                              1. Reel Guppy Outdoors, $20,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                Project Title: Oceans of Opportunity<\/p>\n

                                                Engaging Communities in: Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties<\/p>\n

                                                Project Timeline: March 2023 – December 2024<\/p>\n

                                                Four cohorts of youth and their families will take part in ten experiential activities and field trips including sustainable fishing and rod building, beach cleanups, multi-media creation, port tours, and a boat trip to Santa Cruz Island.<\/p>\n

                                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                  \n
                                                1. Sea League\/Wilderness Youth Project, $45,740 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                  Project Title: The Sea League<\/p>\n

                                                  Engaging Communities in: South Santa Barbara County<\/p>\n

                                                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – August 2023<\/p>\n

                                                  Elementary and middle school-aged, majority BIPOC youth will practice surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddling in a three-month afterschool ocean sports program. They\u2019ll explore tide pools, perform beach cleanups, and join their families on kayaking and snorkeling trips in Channel Islands National Park.<\/p>\n

                                                  \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                    \n
                                                  1. Wilderness Youth Project Incorporated, $49,566 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                    Project Title: Bridge to Nature<\/p>\n

                                                    Engaging Communities in: Goleta, Santa Barbara, and Carpinteria<\/p>\n

                                                    Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                    Elementary youth will experience in-school and afterschool nature-based mentoring programs, visiting local places including tide pools, beaches, and mesas, for activities including journaling, sensory awareness games, child-centered wandering, and focused nature inquiry.<\/p>\n

                                                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                      \n
                                                    1. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                      Project Title: Explore the Coast Program<\/p>\n

                                                      Engaging Communities in: Guadalupe and Santa Maria<\/p>\n

                                                      Project Timeline: May 2023 – May 2024<\/p>\n

                                                      Sixth graders will receive 12 in-class lessons and four coastal field trips to learn about ecosystem functions, science careers, and how human actions both positive and negative can impact the environment. Field trips will be to local estuaries, Santa Cruz Island, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.<\/p>\n

                                                      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                        \n
                                                      1. Northern Chumash Tribal Council, $45,238 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                        Project Title: Curriculum Development with TEK and Scientific Research Ocean Monitoring<\/p>\n

                                                        Engaging Communities in: Central Coast inland to Bakersfield<\/p>\n

                                                        Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                        A certification course on the skills needed for monitoring the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary for adaptive management and mitigation of impacts of new energy sources, centered in traditional ecological knowledge and western scientific research, will be designed and piloted.<\/p>\n

                                                        \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                          \n
                                                        1. SLO Beaver Brigade\/Ecologistics, $41,480 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                          Project Title: Beaver Education in SLO County<\/p>\n

                                                          Engaging Communities in: San Luis Obispo County<\/p>\n

                                                          Project Timeline: March 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                                          Twice-monthly experiential tours to beaver wetlands, including Spanish language and wheelchair accessible tours; monthly river and creek cleanups; new educational interpretive panels and a mural; and Spanish-translated educational materials will engage and educate the local community about the environmental and climate benefits of beavers and the connection of local waterways to the ocean.<\/p>\n

                                                          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                            \n
                                                          1. Chualar Union Elementary School, $49,998 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                            Project Title: Chualar Coastal Conservation: It Starts with Us!<\/p>\n

                                                            Engaging Communities in: Chualar<\/p>\n

                                                            Project Timeline: June 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                                            A part-time science teacher will lead ocean conservation lessons with students, host bilingual coastal conservation community events, and implement community cleanups in Chualar and on the coast. Fifth and seventh grade students will attend a three-day residential outdoor science class, including trips to Elkhorn Slough.<\/p>\n

                                                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                              \n
                                                            1. Salinas Surf Club\/Wahine Project, $3,687 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                              Project Title: Salinas Youth Riding Waves with Whales<\/p>\n

                                                              Engaging Communities in: East Salinas<\/p>\n

                                                              Project Timeline: June 2023 – December 2023<\/p>\n

                                                              Youth surf club members will learn about whales and the National Marine Sanctuary through hands-on activities and on a whale watch tour, and they will create personal fishing line recycling containers.<\/p>\n

                                                              \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                \n
                                                              1. Bird School Project, $19,990 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                Project Title: Birding with Families on the Elkhorn Slough\/Pajareando con Familias en el Humedal Elkhorn<\/p>\n

                                                                Engaging Communities in: Watsonville and Salinas<\/p>\n

                                                                Project Timeline: April 2023 – November 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                Ten field trips to explore Elkhorn Slough on an electric catamaran, and four community birding events will take place in Watsonville and Salinas. Participants will learn about migratory coastal birds and the importance of Monterey Bay in the Pacific Flyway migration route during these bilingual programs.<\/p>\n

                                                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                  \n
                                                                1. Monterey Audubon Society, $19,800 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                  Project Title: Black Oystercatcher Monitoring Project Latinx Internship<\/p>\n

                                                                  Engaging Communities in: Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove<\/p>\n

                                                                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – September 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                  An undergraduate student from CSU Monterey Bay will take part in a mentored, paid internship to assist with Black Oystercatcher monitoring and public education.<\/p>\n

                                                                  \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                    \n
                                                                  1. Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, $44,805 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                    Project Title: Watershed to the Sea Experiential Education & Stewardship<\/p>\n

                                                                    Engaging Communities in: South Monterey County<\/p>\n

                                                                    Project Timeline: April 2023 – June 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                    Middle and high school classes will participate in educational programming on watersheds and sandy beaches, including classroom lessons, field trips, data collection and analysis, and conservation action projects. Teachers will receive professional development training.<\/p>\n

                                                                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                      \n
                                                                    1. San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, $48,598 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                      Project Title: Voyagers: Investigating Sierras, Trails, and Seas<\/p>\n

                                                                      Engaging Communities in: Madera and Fresno Counties<\/p>\n

                                                                      Project Timeline: March 2023 – December 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                      High school youth will explore and learn about the San Joaquin River watershed, including connections between river and marine ecosystems, through two campouts, a week of summer day camp, a service-learning project on invasive plants, and a capstone project presentation and exhibition.<\/p>\n

                                                                      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                        \n
                                                                      1. Coastal Watershed Council, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                        Project Title: San Lorenzo River Environmental Stewardship Program<\/p>\n

                                                                        Engaging Communities in: Santa Cruz<\/p>\n

                                                                        Project Timeline: April 2023 – December 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                        People experiencing homelessness will be offered weekly environmental education, stewardship opportunities, and services. Training emphasizes plant and wildlife identification, basic stewardship principles related to habitat, and training on plant care and seasonal needs. Work includes removal of debris\/litter and invasive species, planting of new native species, weeding, watering, and other site maintenance activities along the San Lorenzo River.<\/p>\n

                                                                         <\/p>\n

                                                                          \n
                                                                        1. Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful, $20,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                          Project Title: Coyote Creek Environmental Education Project<\/p>\n

                                                                          Engaging Communities in: East San Jose<\/p>\n

                                                                          Project Timeline: April 2023 – July 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                          K-12 students will participate in experiential after-school programming in environmental topics including flood preparedness, urban runoff, watershed health, and trash decomposition.<\/p>\n

                                                                          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                            \n
                                                                          1. Marshmallow Minds, $37,750 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                            Project Title: Safe Birds, Safe Waters<\/p>\n

                                                                            Engaging Communities in: Santa Clara County<\/p>\n

                                                                            Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                            Elementary and middle school students will learn about coding and design thinking as part of a project on bird ecology, and will take a field trip to help restore San Francisco Bay shoreline habitat.<\/p>\n

                                                                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                              \n
                                                                            1. Climate Resilient Communities, $47,840 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                              Project Title: Bay to Sea Youth Educational Program for Underrepresented Frontline Communities<\/p>\n

                                                                              Engaging Communities in: North Fair Oaks, Belle Haven, and East Palo Alto<\/p>\n

                                                                              Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                              As part of a six-month Youth Climate Collective, high school students and young adults will learn about sea level rise, flood zones, and pollution; participate in ten field trips to coastal, watershed, and wetland locations guided by professionals in<\/p>\n

                                                                              the field; take part in 12 environmental career workshops; participate in a career fair; and organize two beach cleanups for friends and family.<\/p>\n

                                                                               <\/p>\n

                                                                                \n
                                                                              1. Literacy for Environmental Justice, $49,872 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                Project Title: Coast & Climate Eco-Adventures Program<\/p>\n

                                                                                Engaging Communities in: Bayview-Hunters Point in San Francisco<\/p>\n

                                                                                Project Timeline: April 2023 – August 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                Middle and high school students will receive six hands-on field lessons and six in-class lessons on local coastal ecology, sea level rise, and coastal climate adaptation strategies, and enjoy San Francisco Bay kayaking and fishing outings.<\/p>\n

                                                                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                  \n
                                                                                1. Stockton Unified Native American Indian Center, $39,959 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                  Project Title: Fleming Summer Learning<\/p>\n

                                                                                  Engaging Communities in: Stockton<\/p>\n

                                                                                  Project Timeline: June 2023 – July 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                  Native American youth will take part in a four-week summer learning program about local waterways and their connection to the ocean with a focus on environmental justice and Native American communities, including weekly field trips in the Delta and on the coast and guest lectures from government, community organizations, and higher learning institutions.<\/p>\n

                                                                                  \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                    \n
                                                                                  1. San Joaquin County Office of Education, $47,988 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                    Project Title: Salmon Champions<\/p>\n

                                                                                    Engaging Communities in: San Joaquin County<\/p>\n

                                                                                    Project Timeline: April 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                                    Elementary and middle school classes will learn about and raise salmon and release them at Mokelumne River Hatchery. Teachers and high school student leaders will participate in professional development activities, plan and lead educational programming at the salmon release event, and take part in a green career fair.<\/p>\n

                                                                                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                      \n
                                                                                    1. Golden Gate Audubon, $49,800 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                      Project Title: Eco-Education<\/p>\n

                                                                                      Engaging Communities in: San Francisco, Oakland, and Richmond<\/p>\n

                                                                                      Project Timeline: June 2023 – May 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                      Four class sessions and three field trips will connect classrooms to local coastal ecosystems and human impacts to the environment as they travel from creek to marsh to ocean, with families included in the final ocean field trip.<\/p>\n

                                                                                      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                        \n
                                                                                      1. Friends of Sausal Creek, $38,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                        Project Title: From Headwaters to Ocean: Sausal Creek Watershed Connections<\/p>\n

                                                                                        Engaging Communities in: Fruitvale District in Oakland<\/p>\n

                                                                                        Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                                        Through experiential classes, field trips, and restoration activities, Oakland youth will study the Sausal Creek Watershed, Oakland Estuary, and Pacific Ocean ecology; understand water quality and storm drain pollution links; identify creek and marine flora and fauna; and deepen their commitment to environmental stewardship. The wider community will engage in habitat restoration workdays and in walks with local community experts and artists.<\/p>\n

                                                                                        \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                          \n
                                                                                        1. California Invasive Plant Council, $41,613 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                          Project Title: Shoreline Invasive Plant Professional Development Program<\/p>\n

                                                                                          Engaging Communities in: Oakland, East Bay<\/p>\n

                                                                                          Project Timeline: March 2023 – December 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                          A partnership with Oakland Civicorps will provide one year of in-depth shoreline ecology education, hands-on restoration experience, and professional development training for early-career professionals in the conservation and restoration field.<\/p>\n

                                                                                          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                            \n
                                                                                          1. Earth Team, $20,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                            Project Title: Blue Oceans Internship<\/p>\n

                                                                                            Engaging Communities in: Antioch, Pinole, Richmond<\/p>\n

                                                                                            Project Timeline: May 2023 – June 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                            High school interns will work with members of their campus communities to develop awareness campaigns of land-based ocean pollution and elicit changes in stewardship behaviors through multiple communication and engagement efforts. They will conduct related environmental investigations off campus, including through several field days and kayaking expeditions.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                              \n
                                                                                            1. Environmental Traveling Companions, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                              Project Title: ETC Youth LEAD<\/p>\n

                                                                                              Engaging Communities in: SF Bay Area<\/p>\n

                                                                                              Project Timeline: April 2023 – March 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                              Sliding-scale scholarships will fund teens to participate in watershed education and stewardship which includes five-day sea kayaking, five-day backpacking,<\/p>\n

                                                                                              and three-day rafting, with an opportunity for a follow-up eight-month internship. Curricular materials will be updated with a focus on coastal and watershed climate change impacts.<\/p>\n

                                                                                              \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                \n
                                                                                              1. California State University Maritime Academy, $13,333 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                Project Title: Junior Ocean Explorer Program<\/p>\n

                                                                                                Engaging Communities in: Vallejo<\/p>\n

                                                                                                Project Timeline: March 2023 – April 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                                Vallejo fifth graders and their families will connect with Maritime Academy cadets through classroom lessons on estuary ecology, a campus visit, and a cruise on the Carquinez Strait to collect data and plankton samples.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                1. United Anglers of Casa Grande, $50,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                  Project Title: Tissue Sampling: Permit Management of a Rescue and Rear Program for Native Steelhead Trout<\/p>\n

                                                                                                  Engaging Communities in: Sonoma County, Petaluma Watershed<\/p>\n

                                                                                                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                                                  High school students will collect juvenile trout stranded from drought conditions, perform measurements and take samples, relocate them to the Casa Grande High School hatchery, and release them when freshwater flows allow. Tissue samples will be sent to NOAA Fisheries for the first-ever genetic analysis of Petaluma Steelhead trout as part of this NOAA-permitted project.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                   <\/p>\n

                                                                                                    \n
                                                                                                  1. Sacramento Inspiring Connections Outdoors\/Sierra Club Foundation, $16,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                    Project Title: Three Day Adventures at the Coast for Sacramento Youths<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    Engaging Communities in: Sacramento<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    Project Timeline: April 2023 – March 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    Youth and young adults will experience the coast for the first time on three-day outings at a coastal hostel, while learning about and enjoying coastal habitats.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \n
                                                                                                    1. Naked Whale Research, $17,425 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                      Project Title: Crest to Coast<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      Engaging Communities in: Greenville, Plumas County<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      Project Timeline: March 2023 – May 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      Greenville high school students will visit Mendocino County on a four-day trip to learn about marine science and marine mammal conservation and to participate in whale research. At home, they will produce videos comparing marine mammal recovery to that of a top mountain predator after a catastrophic fire event.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \n
                                                                                                      1. Mattole Restoration Council, $49,336 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                        Project Title: Lost Coast Climate Resilience and Community Education Program<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        Engaging Communities in: Rural southern Humboldt County<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        Project Timeline: April 2023 – April 2025<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        Mixed-grade classes will receive age-appropriate climate and stewardship lessons as part of 12 classroom presentations, six coastal field trips, and four after-school program days. The community will be welcomed to family friendly hikes, beach cleanups, stewardship workdays, and an innovative Climate Change Emotions workshop. Scholarships will be offered to Indigenous and low-income Cal Poly students for the Mattole Field Institute Spring Field Course.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                         <\/p>\n

                                                                                                          \n
                                                                                                        1. Northcoast Environmental Center, $16,624 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                          Project Title: Bike Justice Humboldt<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          Engaging Communities in: Arcata, Eureka, McKinleyville<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          Project Timeline: March 2023 – March 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          At least six bike tours along Humboldt Bay and the coast will engage students and other community members with a lens on environmental justice and increasing bicycle commuting, and provide education on basic bike maintenance, route finding, and civic engagement. At least four of the tours will be co-hosted with other local community groups and tailored to their specific interests.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                           <\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \n
                                                                                                          1. Natural History Museum of Cal Poly Humboldt \/ Humboldt State University Sponsored Programs Foundation, $49,787 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                            Project Title: Ocean and Climate Education and Exploration (OCEE)<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Engaging Communities in: Humboldt County<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Project Timeline: March 2023 – May 2024<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            The Museum will create and install two new exhibits relating to climate change science, expand on existing exhibits with additional climate information, and build a new marine science teaching box to be loaned to local teachers and used at outreach events.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                              \n
                                                                                                            1. Friends of the Dunes, $15,000 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                              Project Title: Summer Sand Adventures<\/p>\n

                                                                                                              Engaging Communities in: Humboldt County<\/p>\n

                                                                                                              Project Timeline: March 2023 – December 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                                              Summer camp programming and camper scholarships will be supported to engage Humboldt youth in multi-day inquiry-based exploration of coastal dunes and wetlands.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                              \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \n
                                                                                                              1. Resources for Indian Student Education, $12,022 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                Project Title: Native Traditional Ecological Knowledge<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Engaging Communities in: Greenville in Plumas County, Alturas-Fort Bidwell in Modoc County<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Project Timeline: March 2023 – September 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Native youth will experience the ocean for the first time on a five-day field trip to Mendocino County, including kayaking and hands-on stewardship at the Pda Hua village site near Point Arena.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                                1. Big Lagoon Elementary, $28,951 <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                  Project Title: Big Lagoon Coastal Camp<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Engaging Communities in: Northern Humboldt and Southern Del Norte Counties<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Project Timeline: March 2023 – July 2023<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Indigenous youth will enjoy an immersive three-day coastal camp where they will use Yurok canoes, hike to Sue-meg State Park for interpretive presentations, and explore Yurok connection to the coast through learning indigenous skills, guided explorations of the beach, and camping at Big Lagoon.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                   <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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