The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) has made a total of $20,000 available to support local public access enhancement projects in Vermont and New York shoreline communities along Lake Champlain. Eligible projects include both water and non-water recreational enhancements at any of the following types of public access sites: boat launch areas, shoreline parks, marinas, beaches, campgrounds, scenic overlooks, fishing piers, and shoreline walking and bicycling trails. To enhance access to the Lake, eligible projects include those on the Lake itself and on tributaries up until a natural or human-made barrier (waterfall, dam, etc.). Projects located on private property must demonstrate a general benefit to the community or region.

Eligible applicants include municipalities, 501(c)3 charitable organizations, and other non-profit organizations. Informal citizens groups and private businesses may also apply under the auspices of one of the groups mentioned above. State agencies may be project partners, but may not directly receive an award. Funding is made available through the LCBP -with funds provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Recipients must provide a 25% match in the form of cash or in-kind services. Applications must be postmarked by May 1, 1999.

To receive an application contact Maja Smith, LCBP Recreation Coordinator, at (518) 597-4464, or visit the LCBP's web site at www.lcbp.org/grants.htm.--