Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is announcing changes to its Environmental Initiatives Program (EIP), which are being implemented to better meet the needs of program applicants.

Environmental groups wishing to apply for funding should take note of these revisions:

1) The maximum funding for large grants is increasing to $30,000, from $20,000.

2) The application deadline for large grants ($10,000 to $30,000) for the 2011/12 field season is Monday, November 14, 2011, at 3 p.m. PST/4 p.m. MST. Please note: There will not be a spring 2012 intake; the next intake will take place in fall 2012.

3) Funding applications for small grants (less than $10,000) may be submitted throughout the year. However, applications received by Monday, November 14, 2011, will be reviewed at that time—after that date, applications received will be reviewed as they arrive, but are subject to available funding.

"CBT is revising the Environmental Initiatives Program to increase convenience for the groups that use it," said Kindy Gosal, CBT director, water and environment. "Successful large projects will have their funding in place before the summer field season begins. Proponents will be able to plan accordingly, plus will be able to benefit from the new $30,000 maximum. Projects requiring $10,000 or less will be able to submit proposals for review year-round, as project ideas are developed."

For more information about the EIP, contact Rick Allen, program manager, environment, at 1-800-505-8998 or email rallen@cbt.org.

Over the past 10 years, EIP has provided approximately $4.5 million in funding for environmental conservation, restoration, stewardship and education projects across the Basin. For more information about EIP, visit www.cbt.org/eip. To learn more about CBT's other environmental priorities, visit www.cbt.org/environment.

CBT delivers economic, social and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit www.cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.