Groundwater Guardian Green Sites Administrative Fee

Why is The Groundwater Foundation now charging a fee?

In 2010, The Groundwater Foundation’s Board of Directors identified the Groundwater Guardian Green Site program as a high priority for future growth and development, and the need to address program sustainability, growth, and increased services to participants.

Since the program began in 2007, The Groundwater Foundation has been able to offer Groundwater Guardian Green Sites at no cost.  While both the Board and staff of The Groundwater Foundation are committed to the continuation and growth of the Green Site program, the time has come to make the program sustainable into the future.  The Foundation will continue to raise funds to support and grow the program, but as we do so, it is important for funders to see a financial commitment to the program from participating sites.  Therefore, The Groundwater Foundation Board of Directors and staff have determined that it is time to implement an administrative fee for program participation. 

How much is the fee?

For the 2012 program year, The Groundwater Foundation will reduce the fee by 20% for renewing sites that submit their renewal form by May 1, 2012.

For profit sites
First-time sites: $100
Renewing sites (those designated in previous years): $40 ($50 after May 1, 2012)

Non-profit sites*
First-time sites: $50
Renewing sites (those designated in previous years): $20 ($25 after May 1, 2012)
*Non-profit sites will be asked to provide their Federal Tax ID number on their application, renewal form, or fee form.

What benefits Do Sites receive with the implementation of a fee?

Over the course of 2011, The Groundwater Foundation will provide additional program benefits to participants with the implementation of the administrative fee, including:

• A monthly newsletter with water news, program information and updates, funding opportunities, success stories, and more
• Case studies highlighted on the Green Site website
• Other educational resources
• Opportunities to connect with other Green Sites, Groundwater Guardians, and water experts through Facebook, blogs, and The Groundwater Foundation’s National Conference
• Discounted or free access to Groundwater Foundation webinars
• Discounts on Groundwater Catalog products
• Other benefits yet to be determined (suggestions are welcome!)

When is the fee due?

For first time sites, the fee is due upon submission of the site’s application.

For renewing sites, the fee is due upon submission of the site’s renewal form.

What are the payment options?

Teams can pay the fee by cash, check, Visa, or MasterCard. Payment can also be submitted through the Foundation's online shop.

Can the fee be paid with groundwater foundation membership?

Yes. There is an option on the updated Green Site renewal form. Note: Groundwater Foundation membership dues are tax deductible; the Groundwater Guardian Green Site administrative fee is not.

Questions? Concerns?

Feel free to contact The Groundwater Foundation at 1-800-858-4844 or email guardian@groundwater.org.