Forest Education Initiative
A new North Highland Forest cluster group has recently been formed to help local people and groups access Forest Education Initiative support. Forest Education Initiative (FEI) aims to increase the understanding and appreciation, particularly among young people, of the environmental, social, and economic potential of trees, woodlands and forests and of the link between the tree and everyday...The FEI Partnership Fund provides funding to support the work of FEI cluster groups. It can provide match funding for specific activities, which enhance the overall objectives of FEI. These are to help develop among young people a greater understanding of trees, woodlands, forest management, forest products and wood as a sustainable resource. Grants of up to £5,000 (50% match funding needed) are available throughout the year. For information, contact Neil McInnes - Neil is the chair of the local group. Further information can be found at www.foresteducation.org including Guidelines and an Application Form.

Scottish Natural Heritage Grants Programme
Don’t forget the SNH grant schemes supporting the protection and improvement of the natural heritage, and to help people understand, enjoy and care for it:

• Managing special places
• Supporting biodiversity
• Enjoying Scotland's outdoors
• Developing paths and routes
• Attractive places to live
• Involving people
• Sustainable rural land use
• Sustainable approaches to managing waters

Grants are offered to a wide range of organisations including the voluntary sector. There is no upper limit on the value of awards, although most grants are less than £10,000, and you can apply for as little as £250. Awards are rarely for more than 50% of project costs. Three years is the normal limit for funding. Apply for grants up to £10,000 at any time; you will receive a decision within 20 days. Closing dates for larger applications are on 1 September and 15 April. Contact local SNH staff for advice. For more information email grants@snh.gov.uk or download an application pack from www.snh.org.uk