An Evaluation of the Wisconsin Environmental Education Board's Grants Program

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Wisconsin Environmental Education Board's (WEEB) Grants Program's effectiveness in meeting its priorities. In 1989 the Wisconsin State legislature created the WEEB and its Grants Program. The Grants Program's mission is to "award grants to corporations and public agencies for the development, dissemination and presentation of environmental education programs." From 1990- 1998 the Grants Program awarded over 2 million dollars in environmental education grants. The program awards grants in two categories, small and large grants. Small grants are awarded in amounts up to $5,000 and large grants are for amounts between $5,001 - $20,000. The Grants Program is financed by state-appropriated funds. Each year the Grants Program receives $200,000 from the general appropriations account. In 1997 WEEB began to receive a percentage (5% assessment) of the monies generated from state environmental levies and fines. Although this is a continuing source of revenue, the amount WEEB receives varies from year to year. Also in 1997, WEEB began to receive money generated by the forestry mill tax. This money is used for forestry and forestry education grants only. The amount of money available in this account is approximately $190,000. Until now, the Grants Program has not undergone any type of evaluation. In order to assess the overall effectiveness of the WEEB Grants Program, a survey was developed which consisted of both quantitative and qualitative questions. The survey was based on criteria developed in relation to three of WEEB's central purposes: the development of local leaders and citizens, the development and implementation of curricula, and professional development. In April of 1999, the survey was mailed to all 215 past grant recipients, from the 1990-1991 through the 1997-1998 grant cycle. The results of the evaluation indicated that while, overall, WEEB is addressing its priorities there are areas in need of improvement. It was concluded that improvements are necessary in each of the three areas, including a more detailed evaluation of the materials produced as a result of WEEB funds, greater focus on the more equitable distribution of funds throughout the state, and more focus on student populations beyond K-12.Wisconsin Environmental Education Boar