Local environmental groups receive funds for projects

Two Tulare County environmental groups were among eight across the Central Valley on Tuesday awarded a total $275,000 from the Fresno Regional Foundation.

Twenty-five proposals were submitted by groups to receive funds from the foundation to assist with the growth and support of San Joaquin River restoration activities in the Central Valley, but only eight organizations were selected.

The Community Water Center, based in Visalia, was granted $25,000 for its project to engage both residents and government officials in water solutions in the Tulare Lake Basin region. The project is designed so stakeholders develop disadvantaged community water solutions.

Tulare Basin Wildlife Partners, in Three Rivers, was awarded $15,000. The group proposed to conduct outreach, education and advocacy to build awareness and consent for sustainable natural resource planning strategies and smart growth principles in Tulare, Fresno and Kings counties.

Other groups awarded funds were Food Commons Fresno Trust, Fresno Metro Ministry, Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, Madera Coalition for Community Justice and Office of Community and Economic Development.

—Stephanie Weldy