The ACT government has announced $120,000 in community grants to help reduce leaf litter pollution in Canberra’s lakes, ponds, wetlands and creeks.

The new Healthy Waterways Community Grants Program will fund community-led projects aimed at preventing leaves accumulating in gutters, nature strips and other hard surfaces, where they can contribute harmful nutrients to waterways.

Two funding streams are available: Community Action Grants of $2000 to $10,000 and Impact Grants of $10,001 to $30,000.

Environment Minister Suzanne Orr says the grants will support volunteer activities, community events, education projects and other local initiatives to improve waterway health.

Community groups, school volunteer organisations, individuals and small organisations are eligible to apply.

The program complements existing government measures, including street sweeping, pollution traps and the Lake Tuggeranong catchment plan.

Applications close on Monday, November 23, with guidelines and details available through the Healthy Waterways Program webpage.

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