The Local Authority Waters Programme are pleased to announce the launch of an open call for applications to a Community Water Development Fund 2019.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Tuesday 12th February 2019 at 7.00pm.

The Community Water Development Fund aims to support communities in progressing water related projects and initiatives, delivering benefits locally whilst also helping to meet the objectives of the River Basin Management Plan for Ireland and the wider EU Water Framework Directive.  This fund is open to all community and voluntary groups to assist in the protection and management of water quality, both locally and in the wider catchment. This can include the development of a catchment partnership or River/Lake Trust, and delivery of local projects to protect and improve water quality in a local waterbody. This fund will enable communities to get more involved in the management of their local water environment, delivering multiple benefits for present and future generations. The fund is administered by the Local Authority Waters Programme on behalf of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

Types of projects considered will include:

• Capital projects such as restoration/habitat conservation/natural flood mitigation measures.
• Projects that promote public awareness/education and events such as biodiversity days, surveys, training workshops, surveys and plans, etc.
• General amenity such as beach clean, improving amenity areas, bird watching facilities, etc.

Grants awarded will range from up to €5,000; up to €10,000 and up to €25,000.

The fund is capped at €180,000 for 2019.

For more details, guidelines and application form please see http://watersandcommunities.ie/community-water-development-fund-2019/

Alternatively contact your local Community Water Officer shurson@lawco.ie or the Waters and Communities Office at 0761 06 5262 or info@lawco.ie