The Utom Conservation Fund is managed by a consortium of groups* that are dedicated to protecting the Utom River and its watershed in southern California. Four grants in the amount of $12,500 each will be awarded.
Eligibility
- Must be attending an accredited college or university and enrolled in a master or PhD degree program
- Project or research must be specific to the Utom River Watershed
- Project or research must fall under one of the following categories: Cultural; wildlife; water quality; botany
- Special consideration will be given to tribal members (including unrecognized tribes)
Application Requirements
- Completed application form
- Two letters of recommendation/reference:
- Letter of recommendation from member of your current academic institution stating their support of your work
- Letter of reference from academic staff confirming your enrollment in your current academic institution.
- Resume or C.V.
- Optional: If you wish to submit a video describing your interest in the environment you may include that is well. (1 minute or less). Please upload to YouTube (unlisted) and include a link with your application.
The Utom Conservation Fund was established with settlement money from litigation to protect the Utom River (Santa Clara River in Ventura County) on behalf of plaintiffs Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, California Native Plant Society, and the Center for Biological Diversity. The groups are working to identify threats to the river, opportunities to restore and protect it, and cultural values/assets along the river in need of conservation. The group also manages the fund’s investments to maximize sustainable growth to ensure long-term funding for its environmental and cultural goals.