Across the state, Ohio EPA is putting money into the hands of schools, businesses and environmental altruists. From improving water quality and developing virtual networks, to hazardous air pollution training and enhancing nature restoration efforts, 18 recipients are ready to create and execute engaging projects that will capture the imagination and educate Ohioans with how to be the best Buckeye environmental stewards possible.
Following are some of the larger grant recipients of Ohio EPA’s Environmental Education Fund (OEEF) grants:
Water Management Association of Ohio, Watershed Division, is receiving $50,000 for its “MS4 Bootcamp On Demand” project that will create a series of six on-demand videos to improve water quality in local waterbodies and downstream lakes and rivers benefiting surrounding communities. The videos will advance the regulated community’s understanding and compliance with stormwater regulations.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History is receiving $49,936 to undertake ecological restoration activities throughout its system of nature preserves. The project will work with the regulated community in ecological restoration efforts adjacent to Mentor Marsh and will raise public awareness through seven volunteer restoration events and establish interpretive signage at three publicly accessible preserves.
Wright State University is receiving $49,895 for the “Futures in Chemistry: Empowering Young Minds in Electrochemical Detection of Heavy Metals for Water” program that will teach high school students how to use advanced instrumentation to detect heavy metals in water and the importance of water quality monitoring. Students will gain hands-on experience in environmental testing and data analysis, engaging them to consider STEM careers.
Ohio State University – Environment and Natural Resources is receiving $35,320 to develop a virtual networking platform through the Environmental Professionals Network for the regulated community, environmental professionals and people interested in STEM careers. The project will enhance the existing Environmental Career Ambassadors program. In addition, funds will directly support a day-long training and networking event with educators and ECA members at Columbus City School’s Spruce Run Nature Center.
Groundwork Ohio River Valley is receiving $30,100 to train approximately 150 youth and area residents on the history and hazards of air pollution through hands-on educational activities such as constructing an air quality monitor and biking along a mobile air quality route.
Delaware City Schools – Hayes High School is receiving $21,823 for the Hayes Outdoor Learning Lab. Students will design and create seven habitat areas in the lab to be populated with native plants through research and coordination with environmental professionals. The outdoor learning space will allow students and the community to learn about pollinator spaces, expand prairies, and enhance conservation corridors, including city parks and four native plant nurseries.
Shelby Soil and Water Conservation District is receiving $19,250 to educate students, the public and the regulated community on watersheds with an augmented reality sandbox. Community members will learn how topography and rainfall affects non-point source pollution and erosion, and how it all relates to the topography, land use, and water quality within the county and beyond at community events, including the Shelby County Ag Night and Shelby SWCD field days.
Published August 2025
