RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Dominion Resources’ charitable foundation is awarding grants to 33 environmental organizations in Virginia.

The Richmond-based energy provider says the groups will share $500,000.

The grants support projects that protect and preserve natural habitats, prevent pollution, make nature accessible and educate the public about environmental stewardship.

Friends of First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach will create an exploration lab to teach visitors about the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

Friends of the Lower Appomattox River will enhance accessibility to a canoe and kayak launch along the Appomattox River.

The Fairfax County Park Foundation will build a new trail connecting existing trails to the forest in southwest Lake Fairfax Park.

A Charlottesville program will cultivate community gardens with more than 110 edible and native species of plants and vegetables.

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