In order to help preserve Richland County’s historical structures and protect and enhance its green spaces, the County’s Conservation Commission is offering grants to fund local community projects.
Applications are now being accepted by the Richland County Conservation Commission for two types of grants – Historic Preservation and Community Conservation. Historic Preservation grants are available in amounts of up to $50,000 for the restoration costs of historic buildings and cemeteries or for the costs of educational and research projects that promote the history of Richland County.
Community Conservation grants can be funded for up to $20,000 for projects that include creating trails, planning greenways, improving water quality, or environmental education programs.
Non-profit and neighborhood organizations, governmental agencies and institutions and commercial entities may apply for the grants, both of which require a 20 percent match.
Recently funded projects include the Belser Arboretum stream restoration, rehabilitation of a historic walking trail at the Clemson Sandhill Research and Education Center, restoration of the interior of a B-25 bomber and the research and publication of a booklet about Modjeska Monteith Simkins, an important 20th-century civil rights leader in Richland County.
“Protecting our natural and historical heritage preserves the sense of place that defines Richland County and sets us apart from Anywhere USA,” said Nancy Stone-Collum, Richland County Conservation Coordinator.
Applications are available online at richlandlegacy.com. The submission deadline is 5 p.m. on Feb. 20. For more information about the Historic Preservation grant and the Community Conservation grant, contact Nancy Stone-Collum at 803-576-2083 or stonecollumn@rcgov.us.