Preliminary Screener Applications Due June 2; Final Applications Due Sept. 1
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has announced the availability of more than $3 million for environmental conservation in Franklin County through the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund (COCF). This fund provides assistance for the acquisition of green space and the protection and enhancement of river and stream corridors.
“The benefits of open spaces are enormous. They provide clean air and water, support different levels of ecosystems, among other benefits. To accrue these benefits, we need to protect and preserve our open spaces, sensitive ecological areas and stream corridors.”
Projects to provide or enhance access to properties previously acquired with funds from the program are also eligible. Local governments, park and recreation districts, conservancy districts, soil and water conservation districts, and non-profit organizations are eligible to apply.
The Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) administers the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund. Franklin County comprises District 3 of the OPWC. The district has formed a Natural Resources Assistance Council (NRAC) to review funding applications and select applications for approval using the selection methodology it has established.
“District 3 has a wonderful competitive history with this program, and we have been able to protect and enhance quality green spaces and stream corridors across Franklin County for the public to enjoy."
Interested applicants are invited to submit a preliminary screening application to determine if their project is eligible and to receive constructive comments for the final application. The deadline for the screening application is June 2 at 5 p.m. The final application must be received by Sept. 1 at 5 p.m.
Applications and information are available online.
In the last funding cycle (Round 17), awarded this month, three projects received more than $4 million in COC Funds for District 3-Franklin County from the Natural Resources Assistance Council.
- Metro Parks, Clover Groff Headwaters Acquisition, awarded $1,507,500
- Columbus, Linden Green Line Linear Park, awarded $2,474,000
- Whitehall, Fairway Boulevard Big Walnut Trail Conservation Acquisition & Access, awarded $535,035
“The projects funded in this grant cycle will serve to protect valuable natural resources, such as wetlands, headwater streams, and riparian corridors, while also providing enhanced access in areas where it was not previously available. These projects will benefit the residents of Franklin County for generations to come.”
For program or application questions, email Dr. Edwina Teye at eteye@morpc.org or call 614.233.4233.
