Grants available to Northeast Iowa schools for ag-related field trips

Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area (SSNHA) is pleased to announce that $10,000 is available through the SSNHA Bus Grant Program to help schools in Northeast Iowa fund field study trips during the 2011-2012 school year. The Bus Grant Program, which helps cover transportation costs of school field study trips to designated SSNHA Partner Sites, allows students the opportunity to learn about and connect with Iowa's agricultural heritage. From dairy farms and museums to historic sites and nature centers, SSNHA currently has more than 100 Partner Sites offering agricultural experiences for students.

“We are excited to once again offer this valuable program that allows Northeast Iowa student's the opportunity to learn about Iowa's agricultural story firsthand,” commented Don Short, SSNHA President. “Since the program's inception in 2007, it has helped fund field trips for more than 9,000 students.”

Awarded on first-received, first-funded basis, accredited Pre K-12 public, private or charter schools located within the 37-county Heritage Area may apply for one grant per year with a maximum of $350 awarded per school. The grant cycle begins August 1 and will remain open until funds are depleted or December 1, 2011, whichever comes first. For more information or to apply a bus grant visit www.silosandsmokestacks.org and click on grants.

SSNHA is one of 49 federally designated heritage areas in the nation and is Affiliated Area of the National Park Service. The Heritage Area covers 37 counties in the northeast quadrant of Iowa. Interstate 80 borders it on the south and Interstate 35 borders it on the west. Through a network of sites, programs and events, SSNHA interprets farm life, agribusiness, and rural communities-past and present.