The Conservation Education and Research Program (CERP) is a small grants program established by the Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) in 1979 to fund projects by others intended to increase the understanding and protection of the watershed’s natural resources. 

CERP grants are intended to encourage projects that develop a greater understanding of the environmental resources of the Connecticut River and its watershed, and that increase scientific knowledge and public awareness of those resources.  Projects that fill informational voids or highlight an issue will be favored.

There are two annual grant cycles, with application deadlines of May 1 and November 1.  Decisions will be announced on May 30 and November 30. 

Who is Eligible for Grants
Priority is given to students attending a college, university or high school within the watershed who are studying environmental and biological issues. Also eligible are nonprofit organizations and individuals in the watershed whose activities and projects will advance the protection and wise use of the watershed’s natural resources. Proposals from students attending institutions outside the watershed will be considered, funds permitting.

Grant Criteria
Criteria for awarding grants include: originality of proposal, perceived usefulness of research or product produced; previous scholastic level and geographical distribution of grants awarded; preparation of the applicant to conduct the research or project; recommendations from academic advisors or letters of support; amount of additional support and matching funds arranged by the applicant; and CERP budget availability. Examples of projects that might be funded are: research on a threatened or endangered species; development of a water quality monitoring program for a stream or stretch of river with possible problems; production of a slide show, video or exhibit illustrating an aspect of the River or the watershed’s environmental quality.

Use and size of grants
CERP Grants average $100 to $500 and will not exceed $1,500. 

Grants will not be made for stipends, but may cover such project expenses as: purchase of material and equipment, travel, publication and printing, lease and rental fees, and reasonable living expenses.  Equipment purchased with grant funds will belong to CRWC for use in support of other research projects, or CRWC may donate it to a sponsoring institution or organization.

Application process
Click here to download an application form (which can be submitted electronically or on paper), or request a form at crwc@ctriver.org, 413-772-2020, or by mail to CRWC, 15 Bank Row, Greenfield, MA 01301. 

For all inquiries, contact CRWC.