In wake of the oil spill in the Gulf, West Marine is putting out a call for entries for their Marine Conservation Grants program. West Marine is donating $30,000 to recreational fishing and conservation organizations working to clean up and protect the marine environment. The grants will be awarded to groups that offer conservation projects that are beneficial to recreational fishing and sustainable commercial fishing, while preserving marine resources. There will be five to ten grants awarded in amounts ranging from $500-$5000 per recipient. Applications are available online. The closing date for entries is September 1, 2010 and official rules and application information can be found at www.westmarine.com.
The Marine Conservation Grants are awarded through a formal application process in which interested organizations must submit their proposal directly to West Marine. All applications will be reviewed by the Marine Conservation Action Team (MCAT). Those applying must show sound financial policies and management with a key focus in marine conservation, habitat restoration and sustainable fisheries. These activities may cover Gulf clean-up, habitat protection and restoration, ocean science and conservation projects that relate to key marine species, water quality, sustainable ocean use, etc.
Since 1994, West Marine has donated over $4,500,000 to non-profit organizations that support youth boating, boating safety and the marine environment. For more information about theMarine Conservation Grants program, please visit www.westmarine.com.
ABOUT WEST MARINE
West Marine, the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, has more than 330 company-owned stores located in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada and two franchised stores located in Turkey. Our call center and Internet channels offer Customers approximately 50,000 products plus the convenience of being able to order online and ship to a local store free of charge. Our Port Supply division is one of the largest wholesale distributors of marine equipment serving boat manufacturers, marine services, commercial vessel operators and government agencies. For more information on West Marine's products and store locations, or to start shopping, visit westmarine.com.