Collaboration and Partnerships

Note: EPA no longer updates this information, but it may be useful as a reference or resource.

Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) - Bay Mini-Grant Program
EPA Region 4 – Atlanta

Geographic location or area of activity: Watershed of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, including Hillsborough, Manatee and Pinellas Counties, Florida

Description of activity: The Bay Mini-Grant Program supports community-based restoration and education projects focusing on the Tampa Bay estuarine system. The program empowers citizens and helps foster an environmental ethic and promotes community stewardship of the Bay. The objective of the program is to mobilize as many segments of the public as possible in the protection and enhancement of the Tampa Bay estuarine system. The TBEP encourages applicants to develop proposals in conjunction or partnership with different clubs, neighborhood associations, business and trade organizations, community and environmental groups, and school districts. Projects that have long-term applicability and may serve as models for addressing bay issues receive priority consideration.

The Bay Mini-Grant Program is financed by annual sales of the Tampa Bay estuary specialty license plate. In 2007, TBEP awarded $160,000 in Bay Mini-Grants and individual proposals were not to exceed $7,500. Projects addressed bay problems and priority issues including: water quality, habitat restoration and protection, fish and wildlife conservation, bay awareness and education, dredged material management, and invasive species. Creative partnerships pairing groups such as commercial/recreational fishermen and developers and environmentalists are especially encouraged. Each application specifically states how the project will target bay issues that result in the restoration, enhancement or protection of Tampa Bay.

Interagency partners: State of Florida

Local partners: Hillsborough, Manatee and Pinellas Counties; City of St. Petersburg; Boy Scouts of America; University of South Florida; Eckerd College; Hillsborough Community College; Tampa Electric Company/Manatee Viewing Center; Lowry Park Zoo; Florida Aquarium – Tampa; and local public and private schools, neighborhood associations.

Activity URL: http://www.tbep.org/bayminigrants.html

Prothonotary Warbler	Marbled Godwits and Red Knots
Sand Hill Cranes	Black Skimmer

Some of the 125 bird species that make Tampa Bay home for part of the year

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