The Upper Big Blue NRD has several opportunities available for education funding. Whether you’re looking for classroom investments or scholarships, check out what’s available at www.upperbigblue.org/education.

Burke Scholarships
Each spring, the board of the NRD selects district students as Burke Scholars. Carrying on the name and legacy of conservationist and former NRD board member Raymond Burke, the students chosen each receive $2,000 to put toward their higher educational pursuits in natural resources or a related field at a Nebraska college or university. Applications are due March 21 and include three letters of recommendation that must be received by the deadline.

Educational Capital Projects Fund 
Each year, the NRD sets aside $10,000 for capital projects that provide an educational benefit for people in our district. Past projects have included outdoor classrooms, an FFA-maintained community garden, and a greenhouse. Projects are not limited to schools. This fund could also apply to projects for adults of all ages.

The purpose of the Educational Capital Projects Fund (ECAP) is to create, develop, or enhance natural resources-related educational capital projects that provide experiential learning environments and opportunities for district citizens. To qualify for the program, educational/conservation projects must be physically located, constructed, and maintained within the NRD’s boundary.  These educational capital projects are generally constructed on school property, however, they can be located elsewhere if there is a more suitable location (such as a library or other public space). Applications for ECAP funds are due May 1.

Nebraska Water Leaders Academy Scholarship
When it comes to natural resource management in Nebraska, there’s a lot to know! If you’re interested in learning more, consider participating in the Nebraska Water Leaders Academy. This one-year program includes trips across the state to see how water is safeguarded and used from the urban east to the arid west. The NRD will sponsor one individual per year to attend the Nebraska Water Leaders Academy. The purpose of this sponsorship is to provide training to those who may eventually serve on the NRD board of directors or in another water leadership capacity. The sponsorship will be provided to any district resident with interest in attending. It is not restricted to those working in natural resources or land management. Applications for this scholarship are due September 1.

Mini Classroom Grants
Teachers, do you have an idea for environmental education in the classroom but lack the financial support to make the idea a reality? A new program from the NRD may be for you. The Mini Classroom Environmental Grant Program promotes environmental activities and projects in preschools and schools within the district. These grants are offered on a first come, first served basis, and have a maximum of $300 per teacher or per classroom each year. This program is limited to public or private schools, or homeschool cooperatives. It is not intended for FFA, 4-H, scouts, families, or other groups. Funds can be used by teachers to promote water, soil, wildlife, forest, and grassland education. General ideas that might work into your curriculum include binoculars, microscopes, bird feeders, planting supplies, Earth Day curriculum, life cycle kits, environmental demonstration models, activity supplies, etc. Field trips that include natural resources content may be considered, but the grant may be used for admission to museums and attractions only, not for bussing or meals.

There is no deadline for application, but it is recommended that educators apply at least six weeks ahead of when the funds will be needed. While receipts will not be required, we do request a short project report on how the activity went and what the students learned, due within one month of project completion.