Openlands Accepting Applications for Grants
Openlands partnered with ComEd in 2013 to
begin the Green Region program, and they are accepting applications for grants
of up to $10,000 to support open space projects that focus on planning,
acquisition and improvements to local parks, natural areas and recreation
resources. Grant recipients can use Green Region grants in combination with
other funding sources to cover a portion of the expenses associated with
developing and/or supporting their open space programs. These grants have
facilitated restoration for more than 900 acres of land at 181 community sites,
working alongside public agencies to plan, protect and improve open space.
A wide range of projects have been funded by
the Green Region Program, including a public-access boardwalk around a wetland
at a park with signage interpreting the wildflowers growing in that wetland;
and designating a parcel of land to build a public trail and plant prairie
wildflowers. Each acre restored creates a large impact for pollinator habitat
renewal for our region.
Open space in our communities is a crucial
element of the quality of our lives. Municipalities, townships, counties, park
districts, conservation districts and forest preserve districts all serve important roles in preserving open spaces for
the public to enjoy nature where they live.
For more information,
visit Openlands.org.
