The Wellmark Foundation has notified Winneshiek County Conservation Board they are among 29 Iowa organizations receiving Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) grants.
The “Dry Run Trail – Decorah to the Greenbelt” project has earned a $25,000 grant. This project will construct a new walking/biking trail bridge over Dry Run Creek. In addition to being a significant component of the trail, the bridge will immediately provide access from Decorah and the Trout Run Trail to over 100 acres of new public land in the Dry Run Greenbelt. This area includes hardwood forest, oak savanna, and prairie remnants that harbor 284 plants and animals. Dry Run Greenbelt also boasts hidden springs, waterfalls, limestone bluffs, Dry Run Creek, and other natural treasures for children and families to explore.
The grantees are planning projects that can help individuals, families and communities achieve better health through built environment initiatives that encourage physical activity or access to nutritious foods.
“The Wellmark Foundation Small MATCH grant winners are truly being creative in how each is promoting health in their communities,” said Mary Lawyer, The Wellmark Foundation executive director. “From new swimming pools to trail enhancements to greenhouses and backyard garden creation, these projects will impact the quality of life and the overall well-being of Iowans for generations to come.”
In total The Wellmark Foundation is investing $674,664 into Iowa communities through the 2021 Small MATCH grant program. To ensure community support for these projects, final funding is contingent upon organizations securing 50 percent of the grant award. The required match may be a combination of in-kind donations or services and cash. Organizations have until Nov. 3 to secure their matching funds.
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