Boston- Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy today congratulated two Massachusetts environmental groups awarded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency educational grants. The Silent Spring Institute of Newton received $39,075 to fund the expansion of its Massachusetts Health and Environmental Information System, an interactive, web-based mapping tool that allows educators and students to explore how sources of pollution, indicators of environmental quality and certain health outcomes vary across the Commonwealth. The Boston-based Appalachian Mountain Club received $15,000 to fund hands-on activities in forest ecology, wildlife, geology and outdoor skills for approximately 2,000 middle and high school students.

"Across our state, a new generation is getting involved in the common challenge of protecting and preserving our environment and these grants will help empower them to make an even greater difference," Senator Kerry said. "The Silent Spring Institute and the Appalachian Mountain Club give young people the opportunity to play an active role in safeguarding our natural resources and educating others about the importance of being environmentally responsible."

“Educating children about the extraordinary beauty and value of our environment in Massachusetts is essential to protecting our natural resources for generations to come,” said Senator Kennedy. “I commend the Appalachian Mountain Club and the Silent Spring Institute for their efforts.”

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