Hi all! I hope this email finds you well after a great Earth Day weekend.  

A couple of items:

  1. Ventura River Watershed Council meeting – Thursday, May 3, 2018, 9am 
  2. *Grant opportunity* EPA – New Funding for Water Infrastructure Projects through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program 
  3. *Grant opportunity* CA Wildlife Conservation Board FY2018 Climate Adaptation Program Solicitation Notice (PSM)
  4. Ojai Basin Groundwater Management Agency, Board Meeting – April 26, 2018, 5pm
  5. Invasive Plant Removal Event (Watershed Stewards for the SB Steelhead) – April 28, 9am

Ventura River Watershed Council meeting – Agenda here!
Thursday, May 3rd, 9am-11:30am
Location: HSA – Cottonwood Room – 855 Partridge Dr. Ventura, CA  (2nd floor)

U.S. EPA – New Funding for Water Infrastructure Projects through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program
EPA is announcing the availability of a second round of funding for water infrastructure projects under the EPA’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. EPA is seeking Letters of Interest from prospective borrowers by July 6, 2018.
 
Established in 2014, the WIFIA program is a federal loan and guarantee program that aims to accelerate investment in the nation’s water infrastructure by providing long-term, low-cost supplemental loans for regionally and nationally significant projects. WIFIA credit assistance can be used for a wide range of projects, including:

More details can be found at: www.epa.gov/wifia.

CA Wildlife Conservation Board FY2018 Climate Adaptation Program Solicitation Notice (PSM)
The intent of the grant program is to fund projects that provide for climate adaptation and resilience consistent with the State’s climate adaptation strategy (Safeguarding California Plan), contribute to the goals of AB 32, support WCB’s Strategic Plan, and help fulfil WCB’s Mission. In addition, projects will be consistent with other statewide plans and priorities, including the California Water Action Plan (CWAP) and California State Wildlife Action Plan 2015 Update (SWAP). The deadline for submitting a pre-application, the first step in applying for funding, is May 18, 2018. Details can be seen here.

Ojai Basin Groundwater Management Agency – Board meeting 
Thursday, April 26, 2018, 5pm
Agenda will be posted here when ready: http://obgma.com/meetings/ 

Invasive Plant Removal Event / Watershed Stewards for the SB Steelhead
Saturday, April 28th, 9am-1pm

The mission of the Watershed Stewards Program (WSP) is to conserve, restore, and enhance anadromous watersheds for future generations by linking education with high-quality scientific practices. A program of the California Conservation Corps, WSP is one of the most productive programs for future employment in natural resources. WSP is administered by California Volunteers and sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service. Snacks, water, and tools will be provided.WHERE?

***Organizers will be meeting at Palm Park Parking Lot (236 E Cabrillo Blvd. Santa Barbara, CA 93101). Be sure to look for their tent!*** Volunteers will be helping to restore the Mission Lagoon (next to Stearns Wharf Pier) to improve riparian habitat for the benefit of local wildlife, like Steelhead Trout. 

What to bring?
Volunteers should bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen/hat, layered clothing (depending on weather) and closed-toed shoes.

PLEASE RSVP!
For more information or to RSVP for the  April 28th event, please contact Danielle at: danielle.fitts@wildlife.ca.gov