CHARLOTTE – Duke Energy is again offering grants through the Habitat Enhancement Program to qualifying government agencies and nonprofits that want to enhance, create and protect fish and wildlife habitats along the Catawba-Wateree River and its tributaries in the Carolinas.

The Habitat Enhancement Program is a cooperative effort by Duke Energy, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, funded from a fee charged to individuals and residential marina developers seeking permits to build piers in the Catawba-Wateree lakes. The Foundation for the Carolinas administers the funds.

“This is the first program of this type for Duke Energy and is part of the company’s relicensing efforts for the 11 lakes and 13 hydroelectric power plants located along the Catawba-Wateree River,” Joe Hall, Duke Energy lake services director, said in a news release.

Find grant applications at www.duke-energy.com/lakes/habitat-enhancement-program.asp. Organizations must apply before July 31.