The next generation of environmental champions across Clarence Valley are set to benefit from the largest ever round of Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants.

Three primary schools and early learning centres in Clarence Valley have been awarded grants of up to $1000, to help local students enhance native habitats, improve sustainable food production and recycling or support waste management projects at their school.

This year’s grants also placed an emphasis on the importance of bees and pollinators in the environment with applicants offered extra funding of up to $500 for projects that directly support the conservation of Australia’s bee population.

Woolworths Clarence Valley Store Manager, Gary O’Neill said: “We’re pleased to help Clarence Valley schools create a better tomorrow though this year’s Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants.

“The grants will not only help Clarence Valley schools create and maintain projects that support the local community to go greener, but will also have students buzzing with the opportunity to support and protect our native bee population.”

Almost $2 million ($1.996 million) worth of grants will be provided by Woolworths partnership with Landcare Australia this year to more than 1,600 primary schools and early learning centres.

More than 1,000 schools and early learning centres nationally are also receiving the “Bee Bonus”, which will go towards the development of native beehives, pollinator gardens or bee education programs.

Landcare Australia CEO, Dr Shane Norrish said: “The Junior Landcare Program recognises the vital role young Australians play in caring for the land, their environment and other natural resources. Through this major grants program, Woolworths shares Junior Landcare’s commitment to helping develop Clarence Valley students’ skills and knowledge to become the landcarers of the future.”

Schools in Clarence Valley to receive the grant include Cranes Jacaranda Preschool, St Mary’s Primary School Grafton and Uniting Preschool Grafton

For more information on this year’s recipients and to view the complete map of schools, please visit www.juniorlandcare.org.au/woolworthsgrants/map.