Herring Run Watershed Association
$55,000 / 2005 / Environment
Two grants toward renovation of the Herring Run Watershed Center responding to “green technologies” that have been developed to reduce residential energy costs. The green plan includes the installation of a bamboo floor, solar hot water heating system, cistern to gather rainwater, and use of green-friendly materials. With the expectation that this effort should reduce energy costs by 30 percent, the storefront rowhouse will serve as a model for other neighborhood rowhouses.
Maryland PIRG Foundation
$20,000 / 2005 / Environment
Challenge grant to provide staffing in support of the Environmental Health Policy Project. In partnership with other nonprofits, Maryland PIRG will work to raise awareness of mercury, dioxin, and other health-related environmental concerns, pursue media coverage, and produce reports on the harmful effects of airborne toxins.
South River Federation
$5,000 / 2005 / Environment
Continued support for the South Riverkeeper initiative. The Riverkeeper serves as an advocate for the health of South River, monitoring and assessing the water quality and ecology of the river, and expanding the public’s understanding of individual and collective actions that affect the health of the river.
The Valleys Planning Council, Inc.
$12,500 / 2005 / Environment
Challenge grant for the support of a rural roads study in Baltimore County. The purpose of the study is to develop alternative design standards that will retain the rural and historic character of the areas zoned for rural conservation. The model may be adopted by other surrounding counties.
American Farmland Trust
$50,000 / 2005 / Environment
For continued support of activities designed to ensure the success of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation program. In preparation for the Governor’s Forum on Agriculture in February 2006, the American Farmland Trust facilitated eight sessions with representatives from farming communities to address issues facing Maryland farmers: profitability, land preservation, protection to ensure well-managed agricultural land, and education for the next generation of farmers.