The SPACE Grant Program was established to advance the mission of EMSWCD by providing small grants for conservation-related work carried out by local organizations and schools. By providing easily accessible funding for short-term projects and events, groups can undertake important smaller scale conservation activities in the community with less lead time and administrative burden than larger grant programs. This SPACE program provides grants for a variety of conservation projects including outdoor education and special events. We especially encourage projects that serve or engage low-income and diverse communities. Projects must show a clear public benefit in one or more of the following areas: habitat restoration, watershed health, soil erosion prevention/control, soil health, water quality, water conservation, environmental education. EMSWCD provides SPACE grant awards of up to $2,000. Applications are accepted on a monthly basis, reviewed by staff (according to program criteria), and if recommended, submitted to EMSWCD's Executive Director or authorized senior staff for final approval. Applications that are received by the 1st of the month will be considered for funding and a decision is normally made by the 1st of the following month.