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Learning Landscapes Grant Application

Overview

Coastal Mountains Land Trust permanently conserves land and connects people with nature in the western Penobscot Bay region.  Four years ago, we created a Learning Landscapes program which works towards providing access to nature for children, every day! Our approach includes conserving land next to schools, creating outdoor learning spaces, and supporting educators in offering outdoor learning!  

This Learning Landscapes Grant program helps support outdoor learning by providing financial support for educators to facilitate nature-based outdoor education. This grant provides funding (up to $500) to support projects that connect children with nature, enhance students' comfort with the outdoors, and teaches children how and why to care for the environment. The ultimate goal of the program is to encourage environmental stewardship among the next generation.

Eligibility 

Applicants should be educators affiliated with public or private schools, or nonprofit organizations, serving early childhood to high school aged youth. Special consideration will be given to schools with socio-economic need facilitating outdoor nature-based learning. Priority will be given to projects within Knox and Waldo counties.

Types of Projects 

Although funding is for the current academic year, priority will be given to projects that will continue to benefit the educator or organization in the future.

The following are examples of projects that are consistent with the goals of the grant program: This list should not be considered restrictive. Creativity is encouraged!

  • Purchase of gear or supplies that support nature-based outdoor learning 
  • Creation of a native plant garden (such proposals must include provision for maintenance during the summer) 
  • Materials for nature-based education projects 
  • Creation of a nature trail near the school 
  • Relevant continuing education expenses for teachers 
  • Not considered: sports or recess equipment 
Funding Timeline:

Applications are due February 12, 2026. Funding announcements will be made within 6 weeks of the application deadline.  Within the last month of the 2026 school year, grant recipients will share the results of their project, including photos (permission needed) and stories of their outdoor learning endeavors. We want to share your success!

The applications will be reviewed by the Learning Landscapes grant committee, which excludes current Coastal Mountains Land Trust staff members.

Contact Leah with any questions: leaht@coastalmountains.org

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Email *
Applicant name 
School/Organization's Contact Information (Include the name of the school/organization, the administrator, and the mailing address.) *
Project Description (brief): Describe the need for the project (inital or on-going) and what you hope to accomplish.
Amount of money requested:
 How will the money be spent?  Please share an itemized budget.
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