Tipmont REMC's EnviroWatts "Green Power" Program is funding projects in Carroll, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties with grants totaling $10,300, reports Tipmont general manager Ken Ritchey.

Wildcat Creek Foundation will use its $2,000 toward the restoration project at Adams Mill in Carroll County, known as the Oxbow Natural Area.

The Crawfordsville High School Technology Club's Super Mileage Team is receiving $3,000 to participate in the Super Mileage Challenge and raise awareness for fuel economy. And $300 is going to the Montgomery County Master Gardeners to update its publication, "Large Tree Species in Montgomery County."

The Art Museum of Greater Lafayette is the largest beneficiary, receiving $5,000 to improve landscaping on its grounds at 102 S. 10th St. in Lafayette.

This round of distributions brings the total EnviroWatts awards since the program began in 2001 to $156,937.

"The enhancements to our environment that these funds provide will benefit many people and areas," Ritchey said. "Our customers are committed to helping 'green up' this region, and they show it by participating in EnviroWatts."

EnviroWatts is the electric utility's green power program, which allows customers to purchase power generated from wind, sun or biomass. Those participating pay an additional one cent per kilowatt hour, up to $5 a month per customer. More than 850 of Tipmont's some 20,000 customers participate in the program. Monies are deposited in a trust fund overseen by an independent board, which makes quarterly distributions.

Those receiving funds are selected based on need for the program or project and its appropriateness for the EnviroWatts program. Applicants do not have to be served by Tipmont REMC to qualify for grants, but they must serve Tipmont's geographic area.

Application deadline for the next cycle is Sept. 29. Organizations interested in applying for funds may obtain an application online at www.tipmont.org or call 1- 800-726-3953.