NOAA's Bay-Watershed
Education and Training (B-WET) Program
Updated October 17, 2011
About B-WET
B-WET News - The latest news and announcements from B-WET.
Funding Opportunities - Information about current and past B-WET grant funding opportunities.
Regional Programs - Links and information for B-WET's seven regional programs: California, Chesapeake Bay, Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, Hawai'i, New England, and the Pacific Northwest.
Resources
- Resources for B-WET grantees and prospective grantees.
NOAA B-WET is an environmental education program that promotes locally relevant, experiential learning in the K-12 environment. The primary delivery of B-WET is through competitive funding that promotes Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs). B-WET currently serves six areas of the country: California, Chesapeake Bay, Gulf of Mexico, Hawai'i, New England, and the Pacific Northwest. Since 2002, NOAA has invested over $50 million to support more than 600 B-WET projects. The resources page provides links to information on previously funded projects.
A Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (49KB doc) is one that:
- is investigative or project oriented
- is an integral part of the instructional program
- is part of a sustained activity
- considers the watershed as a system
- is enhanced by NOAA products, services, or personnel, where appropriate
NOAA recognizes that knowledge and commitment built from firsthand experience, especially in the context of one's community and culture, is essential for achieving environmental stewardship. Carefully selected experiences driven by rigorous academic learning standards, engendering discovery and wonder, and nurturing a sense of community will further connect students with their watershed, help reinforce an ethic of responsible citizenship, and promote academic achievement. NOAA B-WET maintains relevance by responding to regional education and environmental priorities through local implementation. Please refer to the regional funding opportunity announcements for specific priorities.