Sixteen organizations are competing to secure some of the $350,000 available for creation and development of projects intended to conserve natural and cultural heritage in Douglas County.

In all, the organizations are proposing 18 projects, ones that together would cost $939,000. All are eligible for financing through the county’s new Heritage Conservation grant program.

The proposed projects would provide conservation of historic structures, natural areas, agricultural sites and operations, and places connected with the county’s long history — from the pre-settlement era through the present day.

Projects will be reviewed by the county’s Heritage Conservation Council, whose recommendations will be forwarded to Douglas County commissioners for review, consideration and approval.