BSWC is an AmeriCorps program that places young professionals in Montana’s watershed communities to make a measurable difference in local conservation initiatives. Here's wishing all 34 of our 2020 BSWC members well in the next steps of their journeys, and congratulations for a job well done!
Findings on Fish and Fire
Summit to Stream 2020 concluded last week with plenty of insights into the intersection of forest and watershed health management. If you're still thirsting for more of these connections, the Network of Oregon Watershed Councils is hosting a discussion with Gordon Reeves, Emeritus Fish Ecologist for the USFS, about how Oregon's recent wildfires may have affected aquatic ecosystems -- and not necessarily negatively. Reeves will also highlight ideas for responding to and planning for long-term conservation and restoration. Register now for his talk on Thursday, October 29th from 3:00-4:30 PM MST.
Be on the lookout here in Watershed News for presentations and recordings from Summit to Stream 2020 and for upcoming training webinars.
Drought Funding
It's a new water year, and we're headed into the time when Montana receives the majority of its precipitation. But it's never too early to start planning for drought. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) has released its Drought Contingency Planning Grants Funding Opportunity Announcement and will be accepting applications through Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 4 PM MST. Applicants can request $1,000-$200,000 to develop a new drought plan or update an existing one while cost sharing drought contingency planning with the BOR. More details can be found at grants.gov.
Helpful tip: start your application early! If you've never used the grants.gov website, you'll need to set up an account - a process that requires some preparation. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time.
