(ATLANTA – Jan. 7, 2010) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making $2 million available in 2010 to reduce pollution at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program.

EPA will award CARE cooperative agreements in two levels. Level I awards range from $75,000 to $100,000 and will help establish community– based partnerships to develop local environmental priorities.

Level II awards, ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 each, will support communities that have established broad–based partnerships, have identified the priority toxic risks in the community, and are prepared to measure results, implement risk–reduction activities, and become self–sustaining.

Applications for the CARE grants are due March 9, 2010. EPA will conduct three Webcasts to answer questions from prospective applicants about the application process on February 2, 23, and 26 from 1 pm to 3 pm.

For more information about the grants visit www.epa.gov/care/.