Applications open for 2026 FAO Environmental Stewardship Pillar Scholarships

The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, in partnership with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, is accepting applications for the 2026 FAO Environmental Stewardship Pillar Scholarships.

Funding is available to advance the educational and career goals of residents in Appalachian Ohio’s 32 counties and seven additional counties served by MWCD: Ashland, Knox, Licking, Richland, Summit, Stark and Wayne.

FAO Environmental Stewardship Pillar Scholarships support individuals seeking degrees or continuing education in ecology, forestry, wildlife ecology or related natural resource fields, as well as skilled trades, vocational and technical training in fields that integrate and support green energy technology, sustainable agriculture and land stewardship. Qualified individuals at any point in their education may apply. Preference will be given to applicants with an expressed intent to live and work in Appalachian Ohio.

Additional information and the application are available at www.AppalachianOhio.org/Scholarships. Completed applications and all accompanying materials must be submitted online by Feb. 15.

These scholarships have been made possible by an investment from MWCD and many donors including Nicolozakes Trucking & Construction Inc., Ohio CAT, American Electric Power, the AEP Foundation and the AEP Ohio Foundation.

For more information on supporting educational opportunities in Appalachian Ohio, visit www.AppalachianOhio.org, email info@ffao.org or call 740-753-1111.