Two Michigan Groups Win Part Of $400,000 3M Eco Grants

ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Two Michigan organizations are among nine groups receiving $400,000 from 3M to environmental groups for projects aimed at improving science-based environmental and conservation education for youth.

3M Eco Grant recipients are providing environmental programs that help students connect science, technology, engineering, and math education with the world around them.

One honoree, the Chippewa Nature Center, located near 3M's Midland plant, will use the funds for its Nature School program, in which classrooms move to the Nature Center for a weeklong immersion in nature and science.

Also winning an award for its educational programs was the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Foundation.

The grant recipients are nature and environmental learning centers located in communities near a 3M facility. Recipients were selected based on criteria including: their goals to connect science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)  education and nature with outdoor learning opportunities, provide education that encourages environmental stewardship, and to increase student visits and teacher preparedness -- thereby extending the learning beyond a single visit.

Since 2001, 3M's environmental giving program has invested more than $21 million in sustainability initiatives.

For more information, visit www.3Mgiving.com.