The latest round of Environmental Grant Scheme awards have been handed out by Environment Minister Neletha Butterfield.

Launched in 2003, The Environmental Grant Scheme strives to promote the protection and preservation of the natural environment.

Getting cheques recently were:

Quincy Burgess, Gregory Smith and Calvin Bridgewater (represented by Calvin Bridgewater) who received $10,000 for a Mango Orchard project;

Wendy Tucker of the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute who received $4,000 for a World Ocean Day project;

Teacher John Skinner who received $7,500 for a Marine Science Internship for students;

East End Primary School who received $2,500 for a school garden; and

Filmmakers Elmore Warren and Daron Lowe who received $25,000 for the Keisha the Mermaid DVD.

The Ministry allocates $100,000 each year to this programme, supporting individuals, community groups, schools and NGOs in the pursuit of their projects to conserve, preserve and restore the island's natural environment.

Ms Butterfield said: "I would like to encourage community groups, non-Governmental organisations and individuals to think deeply about what our environment means to you, and submit a project for our consideration."

She said there is no need to wait until an advertisement appears to apply for an Environmental Award.

"Application forms are available at any time of the year, from the Ministry of the Environment headquarters on Parliament Street, Hamilton.

Out of a total of ten applicants, five projects received financial support totalling a value of $49,000 in this second round of awards to be distributed this year.