The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for grants ranging from $1,000 to $30,000 to fund boater education programs that help reduce boating accidents.

Applications for programs beginning in 2016 are due October 1, 2015. For application instructions, eligibility, grant match requirements and more, go to: watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/grants or contact Craig Watson at 614-265-6674, craig.watson@dnr.state.oh.us.

Priorities:

• Course that meet Ohio’s mandatory boater education requirement

• Boating skills development programs

• Engaging nontraditional boaters through urban and adaptive boating initiatives

• Programs encouraging wearing life jackets, small boat safety and sober boating