The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) is now accepting grant applications for the Keep it Clean Program, a new initiative which aims to protect Minnesota’s lakes by preventing water pollution from garbage and other waste left on the ice of state waters during winter use activities such as ice fishing.Eligible applicants include soil and water conservation districts, watershed districts, watershed management organizations, cities, counties, townships and joint powers organizations. The grants will support activities that help prevent pollution such as ice cleanup events and education and outreach efforts. Individual awards will range from $10,000 to $40,000.

“The Keep it Clean Program will engage winter sporting communities to help find ways they can proactively protect the resources Minnesotans rely on for ice fishing and other winter recreational activities,” said BWSR Executive Director John Jaschke. “Cutting down on waste will improve water quality and keep these lakes ready for more people to enjoy throughout the year.”

The Keep it Clean Program is funded by a one-time, $200,000 general fund appropriation made earlier this year. Applications will be accepted through Oct. 29. Learn more about how to apply.