Northeast Iowa – Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area (SSNHA) is pleased to announce the expansion of its Bus Grant Program to include a broader array of agricultural experiences for Northeast Iowa students. In addition to helping cover the transportation costs of field trips to more than 100 SSNHA Partner Sites, the program is now open to a wider range of farm sites located within the 37-county Heritage Area. Educators may find a complete directory of SSNHA Partner Sites by clicking here and are encouraged to contact their local Farm Bureau for a list of farm sites open to tours. Thanks to support from GROWMARK, Inc., a total of $10,000 will be available to Northeast Iowa schools during the 2013-2014 school year, with applications accepted beginning August 1, 2013. Since 2007, the program has helped over 12,000 youth learn about agriculture and where their food comes from.
“We are excited to be able to expand the program to include more diverse farm sites,” commented Don Short, SSNHA President. “For many youth, this will be the first time they’ve stepped foot on a farm.”
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, 2013, and will remain open until funds are depleted or December 1, 2013, whichever comes first. For more information or to apply for a bus grant, click here.
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.
Topics: Press Releases
