Verizon Communications NJ is proud to announce its “Osprey Tower Nesting Platform” environmental grant program for 2007.   Verizon will be offering $500. grants to 10 municipal environmental commissions located in Monmouth and Ocean Counties (total of $5,000.).

The osprey continues to be listed as a threaten species in NJ.  This project will assist ongoing efforts to help “bring back” the species.   Verizon recognizes the need to provide returning young osprey nesting opportunities within close proximity to their place of birth.    The grants will be $500. each and are for materials.   The construction, installation and maintenance, of the towers is anticipated to be performed by municipal public works departments or community volunteers.  

 Verizon is accepting grant applications, through the end of January.  The application will be reviewed by Verizon with the assistance of Kathy Clark, Principal Zoologist, NJ DEP.  The awardees selected will be notified no later than Feb. 7^th.  The check for the $500 grant will be presented to the commission once the tower is completed (this will provide a photo opportunity for both Verizon and the commission)   - the towers should be in place no later than April 1^st, 2007.

Verizon will also provide and pay for appropriate environmental education signage to be erected at the site which will identify Verizon and the municipal environmental commission, as partners in the project.

Please include in your application a detailed description of the anticipated municipal location for construction of the tower.  Applications should be in letter form and include any supporting documentation as attachments. 

Please mail application to:

John Szeliga

Verizon Communications

216 Morris Ave

Spring Lake, NJ   07762

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