New England programs win environmental grants

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Programs to educate Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine students about environmental issues are sharing almost $220,000 in federal grants.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says the largest grant, totaling more than $83,600, is going to the Mount Desert Island Biological Lab in Salisbury Cove, Maine.

It's being recognized for its program teaching students at two high schools about environments for marine vegetation.

The Coalition for Buzzards Bay of New Bedford, Mass., is getting $67,600 for its program with local schools and organizations educating young children on water quality issues.

The Environmental Justice League of Rhode Island's programs about environmental pollutants and asthma triggers will get almost $38,900. Education Connection in Litchfield, Conn., is getting $29,000 for programs it coordinates with five nearby middle schools.