Cash available for river projects

The River Forth Fisheries Trust have confirmed that the Autumn 2017 round of applications is now open for projects in Falkirk, Edinburgh and West Lothian.

There is £40,000 available to give to local projects over the four years of the RiverLife Project thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund,

River Forth Fisheries Trust are able to support individuals, organisations, and communities seeking assistance with their projects.

A spokesman said: “This is an exciting opportunity for those who want to improve rivers and river corridors for the benefit of the community or reconnect communities and wildlife with their local rivers.

“The fund is open to organisations or groups from the public, private, voluntary and community sectors from within the RiverLife: Almond & Avon project area.

“If it sounds like your project could benefit from this fund then you can apply for up £5,000 of funding.”

To qualify, projects MUST fulfil one or more of the following essential criteria which includes improving understanding of the natural heritage along rivers,, restore, manage and survey river habitats, actively involve people in caring for their river, improving access to the river whilst also managing the impacts of that access, working with young people to inspire the next generation of river custodians or increase people’s ability to be involved with rivers either through training or engagement events.

It is expected that individual grants will be in the range £250 to £5,000 although there are no set limits.

Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss possible applications with the RiverLife: Almond & Avon Project team to ensure eligibility and help maximise the chances of a successful application.

The deadline for this round of applications is Monday, 30 October.

Application forms and details of the fund criteria and guidance notes for applicants are available on the RiverLife Project website www.river-life.org.uk/funding.