B-WET provides competitive funding to support locally-relevant, authentic experiential learning for K–12 audiences.

The B-WET program is an environmental education program that promotes place-based experiential learning for K–12 students and related professional development for teachers.

$149 million

has been awarded to 981 B-WET projects since 2002.

149

institutions were funded by B-WET to bring experiential environmental learning to K-12 audiences in 24 states and the District of Columbia in fiscal year 2023.

4,730

educators received professional development to help incorporate MWEEs into their classrooms in fiscal year 2023.

61,068

students participated in inquiry-based activities both in the classroom and outdoors through B-WET in fiscal year 2023.

The primary delivery of B-WET is through competitive grants that promote Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs). The MWEE is a learner-centered framework that focuses on investigations into local environmental issues and leads to informed action.

B-WET serves seven areas of the country: California, Chesapeake, Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, Hawaiʻi, New England, and Pacific Northwest. Each B-WET regional funding opportunity includes priorities that build on the MWEE definition and are tailored to the local population, geography, culture, and natural, financial, and human resources. See our regional funding opportunity announcements for details.

For a brief overview of the B-WET program, take a look at our factsheet!

Watch an overview of the B-WET program (2019).