Beach Watchers, a program administered by WSU Island County Extension, recently received a $2,500 grant from Puget Sound Energy to support environmental education.

The funds will also be used for the 15th annual Sound Waters event being held in February.

Sound Waters, a one-day education conference, is the largest public gathering held in Island County for marine, nearshore and environmental education.

Offering more than 60 classes on environmental stewardship, the conference will help teach the public about a wide variety of topics related to the appreciation and stewardship of the environment and marine resources.

“Everyone has a role in protecting the environment,” said PSE’s Walt Blackford. “We’re proud to support the foremost annual environmental education conference on Whidbey.”

Sound Waters 2010 will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6, at Coupeville High School and feature keynote speaker Dr. Nathaniel Scholz, of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, who will present information on the impact storm water has on the Puget Sound.

In addition to providing financial support for the event, former television weather forecaster Andy Wappler will participate on a panel addressing renewable energy, and PSE energy advisors will staff an energy efficiency information booth.

Beach Watchers volunteer for a wide variety of activities in Island County, contributing more than 20,000 hours yearly. They focus on programs to improve, maintain and protect a thriving Puget Sound ecosystem through education, community outreach, stewardship and research.

For more information, visit www.beachwatchers.wsu.edu/island.