Educational Capital Projects Fund Provides Hands-On Learning

Each year, the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District sets aside $10,000 for capital projects that provide an educational benefit for people in our district. Past projects have included an outdoor classroom pond, an FFA-operated community garden, a sensory garden for special needs students, water quality testing equipment for a high-school environmental science class, and a greenhouse. Projects are not limited to schools. This fund could also apply to projects for adults of all ages.

The purpose of the Educational Capital Projects Fund (ECAP) is to create, develop, or enhance natural resources-related educational capital projects that provide experiential learning environments and opportunities for district citizens. This fund is for capital items only, deemed to have educational/conservation value, and determined worthy of funding on a case-by-case basis.

To qualify for the program, educational/conservation projects must be physically located, constructed, and maintained within the Upper Big Blue NRD boundary.  These educational capital projects are generally constructed on school property, however, can be located elsewhere in the NRD boundary if there is a more suitable location (such as a library or other public space).

Applications for ECAP funds are due May 1 each year. For full details and application, visit www.upperbigblue.org/educational-assistance. 

Burke Scholarship Application Approaching

Each spring, the board of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District selects two recipients as Burke Scholars. Carrying on the name and legacy of conservationist and former NRD board member Raymond Burke, the students chosen each receives $2,000 to put toward their higher educational pursuits in natural resources or a related field at a Nebraska college or university. Full details and application are available at www.upperbigblue.org/education. Applications for 2023 are due March 24 and include three letters of recommendation that must be received by the deadline.