COLUMBUS, OH - Local communities and organizations can apply now for 2005 boating safety education grants through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft. The deadline for submitting grant applications is November 5.
"Grants range from $500 to $30,000 each and help establish, develop, expand, maintain and promote boating safety programs statewide," said Ken Alvey, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. Grants are awarded yearly on a cost-share basis with the applicant matching at least 25 percent of the total program cost.
Earlier this year, $365,000 in education grants were awarded to 29 recipients. Boating safety education grants are funded through the state's Waterways Safety Fund, which is supported by boat registration and title fees, a portion of the state gasoline tax and the U.S. Coast Guard. Grant applications may be obtained by visiting ODNR's website at ohiodnr.com and by calling toll-free 1-877-4BOATER.