Fresh Water & River Rehabilitation Grants

Though the U.S. government has made strides toward controlling pollution in the nation's freshwater resources, a 2009 report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that 40 percent of rivers are not clean enough for swimming or fishing. Several foundations provide grants to help rehabilitate rivers and lakes.

Walton Family Foundation

• The Walton Family Foundation's environmental initiative is focused on "creating cleaner, healthier rivers" through aligning economic and conservation interests. Activities eligible for funds include improving fisheries management, advocating for marine protected areas, and ensuring healthy freshwater systems through demonstration projects, policy reform or communications strategies. Projects in the Colorado and Mississippi River basins receive preference.

Cora L. Brooks Foundation

• The Cora L. Brooks Foundation offers grants that support "environmental conservation, restoration or education within the watersheds of the Delaware and Susquehanna River," according to grant guidelines. Projects that emphasize environmental protection, clean and water-related ecologys receive preference. Nonprofit organizations that serve watershed areas in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Maryland are eligible to apply.

Jubitz Family Foundation

• The Jubitz Family Foundation provides grants with a focus on "environmental stewardship, with an emphasis on rivers and their watershed ecosystems." Nonprofit organizations that work within the state of Oregon are eligible to apply. Annual application deadlines fall on April 1 and October 1.