The Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District is opening applications to its grant program this week that provides funding for local schools to take field trips. 

Along with opening up applications to the long-standing grant program, the Flood Control District announced that it is making it easier for schools to use in light of the recent field trip funding controversy at Fresno Unified School District. 

The big picture: The 2027 Clean Stormwater Grant Program will offer up to $40,000 in funding for local schools, nonprofits and community organizations to support environmental education, water-resource field trips and projects that protect local waterways. 

Water Resources Field Trip Grants are up to $2,000 per grant, while General Grants are up to $4,000. 

Changes for this year: While the grant program was established in 1997, the Flood Control District is paying field trip and transportation vendors directly this year. Previously, school districts had to pay field trip expenses upfront before getting reimbursed. 

Schools will also have expanded flexibility for Scout Island field trips. They will be able to select from the full range of learning activities offered, as long as at least two are water-resource-based and the costs remain within the $2,000 grant award. 

Driving the news: The Flood Control District said the changes were implemented because of recent concerns over Fresno Unified field trip funding. 

Fresno Unified cut funding for all elementary schools this year, totaling a $2.2 million budget cut. After significant public outcry, the district announced that the Foundation for Fresno Unified Students has stepped up to cover all field trip costs this year. 

What we’re watching: Applications for the grant program will open on Thursday and be accepted through Dec. 18. 

What they’re saying: “We want to make it easier for local schools and organizations to turn good ideas into meaningful opportunities for our community,” said Assistant General Manager Berta Mims. “Whether that means giving students a hands-on experience with local water resources or supporting a project that helps protect those resources, these grants are an investment in education, stewardship and the future of our region.”