Utom Conservation Fund Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Utom Conservation Fund
Description Purpose and scope
The Utom Conservation Fund awards scholarships to students who demonstrate a commitment to the natural and cultural values of the Utom River watershed in Southern California. The fund is intended to encourage stewardship of the region’s wildlife, plants, waters and cultural heritage by supporting students pursuing related education or community engagement. Awards are distributed by a consortium of local conservation and tribal groups that collectively manage the fund. This article summarizes who may apply, what is awarded, and how to submit an application.
Key takeaways
- Supports students with an interest in the Utom River watershed’s environment and culture.
- Managed by a local consortium of conservation and tribal organizations.
- Intended to encourage stewardship, education, and community engagement in the region.
Eligibility Who may apply
Applicants must be residents of the Utom River watershed and fall into one of the following groups: high school seniors, junior college students, or undergraduate college/university students. The fund gives special consideration to tribal members, including members of unrecognized tribes. Other eligibility requirements (such as proof of enrollment) are addressed in the application materials.
Key takeaways
- Open to high school seniors, community college students, and undergraduates.
- Residency in the Utom River watershed is required.
- Tribal members (including unrecognized tribes) receive special consideration.
Award
Value Number and amount of awards
The fund will award ten scholarships, each in the amount of $2,000. These scholarships are intended as direct financial support to the selected students; applicants should review any additional terms on the official application. Distribution details (timing, use restrictions) will be provided to recipients at award time.
Key takeaways
- Ten awards will be made.
- Each award is $2,000.
- Recipients will receive further details about distribution and terms upon selection.
How to
Apply Required materials and contact
Applicants must submit a completed application form including a short essay (500 words or fewer preferred) describing their passion for the environment and the Utom River watershed and any prior related projects or plans. A letter of reference from academic staff confirming current enrollment is required. Optional: a video (1 minute or less) may be uploaded to YouTube as an unlisted link and included with the application. For questions or additional details, contact kristina@7thgenerationadvisors.org or call 310‑770‑0665.
Key takeaways
- Submit a completed application form and an essay (≤500 words preferred).
- Include an academic letter of reference confirming enrollment.
- Optional 1-minute unlisted YouTube video may be provided; contact info: kristina@7thgenerationadvisors.org, 310‑770‑0665.
Application
Timeline Deadlines and updates
A specific deadline and award timeline are not provided in this summary; applicants should consult the fund’s official application page or contact the program coordinator for current dates. Because timelines can change annually, checking for the most recent application window and submission instructions is important. Contact the address or phone number listed under How to Apply to confirm deadlines and required submission method.
Key takeaways
- No deadline is listed here; verify current dates on the official application page.
- Timelines may change annually—confirm before preparing materials.
- Use the How to Apply contact info to get up-to-date deadline and submission instructions.
History of the
Award Consortium and mission
The Utom Conservation Fund is administered by a consortium of organizations focused on protecting the Utom River watershed and its cultural and biological resources. Consortium members include the California Native Plant Society, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, and the Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation. The partners combine conservation science and tribal stewardship to support long-term protection and community engagement in the watershed.
Key takeaways
- Fund is managed by a multi-organization consortium.
- Named consortium members: California Native Plant Society; Center for Biological Diversity; Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians; Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation.
- Emphasis on combining conservation and tribal stewardship for watershed protection.