Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN — The Mahoning Soil and Water Conservation District has been awarded a $10,000 grant, made possible by the Kennedy Family Fund and the Rick Shale Fund, both component funds of the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

This funding will directly support the Mahoning SWCD Backyard Conservation Grant Program, an initiative aimed at promoting conservation practices on local properties to enhance sustainability and protect natural resources throughout Mahoning County.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, the Kennedy Family Fund, and the Rick Shale Fund for their generous support,” said Zack Felger, District Outreach and Education Specialist for Mahoning SWCD. “This funding will allow us to provide valuable resources and incentives for local landowners to implement conservation strategies that benefit both their properties and the broader environment.”

The Mahoning SWCD Backyard Conservation Grant Program supports homeowner associations, schools, places of worship, parks and other locally owned spaces, private or commercial properties, and nonprofits in adopting conservation practices that enhance soil health, improve water quality and support local wildlife.

To promote sustainable solutions, Mahoning SWCD offers reimbursement of up to $500 for approved backyard conservation projects. Eligible practices include rain gardens, permeable pavement, rain barrels, turf reduction, conservation scholarships and other best management practices (BMPs) or projects approved by Mahoning SWCD.

“These initiatives support the SWCD’s mission to protect natural resources, promote environmental sustainability, and educate the community on conservation practices. We are excited about the positive impact this program will have on Mahoning County,” Felger said. ‘With this funding, we can empower more residents to take an active role in conservation — right in their own backyards.”

Interested applicants can apply for the grant starting May 1 and the deadline is May 31. For more details on the application process, visit mahoningsoilandwater.org.

For more information about the Mahoning SWCD Backyard Conservation Program, contact the district office at 330-740-7995 or visit our website at mahoningsoilandwater.org.