DNR NEWS

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

402 W. Washington St. W255 B

Indianapolis, IN 46204-2748

Phone: (317) 232-4200

For immediate release: Aug. 13, 2007

NOTE: Previous release was missing start times

Lake Michigan Coastal Program to hold grant workshops later this month

            Communities and local organizations with an idea for an Indiana coastal-area project, but not enough funding to make it happen may have a source: Indiana's Lake Michigan Coastal Program, which will host a grant workshop in each eligible county later this month.

            Hobart, Michigan City and Gary have implemented projects with LMCP funding in the past.

            Potential future projects eligible for funding might include protecting rare habitat, improving access to a favorite hiking spot, educating residents about the rich history of Northwest Indiana, or teaching citizens about the effect humans have on the changing landscape. The schedule follows.

Wed., Aug. 22 – Pruzin Community Center, 5750 Tyler Pl., Merrillville, 10-11:30 a.m.

Fri., Aug. 24 – Barker House, 444 Barker Rd., Michigan City, 10 11:30 a.m.

Mon., Aug. 27 – Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, 6100 Southport Rd., Portage, 2-4 p.m.

            Attendees will be able to seek input on project eligibility and receive answers to application-process questions for the 2008 funding cycle.            

            The purpose of the LMCP is to support partnerships among local, state, and federal agencies for the protection and sustainable use of natural and cultural resources in the Lake Michigan region.

            The updated LMCP application and guidance are available at http://www.in.gov/dnr/lakemich/grants/index.html, or copies can be requested at coastal@dnr.in.gov.

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Media Contact: Mike Molnar, Lake Michigan Coastal Program Manager by email at mmolnar@dnr.in.gov or 317-233-0132