The City of Gulf Shores approved a resolution accepting a $10,000 grant that will be used to purchase a small greenhouse for the Gulf Coast Eco Center's environmental education programs.

Dan Bond, environmental grants coordinator for the city, presented the grant from the Gulf Coast Resources, Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council at the Feb. 2 city council meeting.

He said the greenhouse will specifically enhance the gardening and composting programs offered at the Eco Center. The project cost is 100% covered by grant funds and is not to exceed $10,000.

According to agenda documents, the Eco Center works with local businesses, stakeholders and Gulf Shores City Schools to provide a variety of community-based environmental programs. Many focus on gardening, growing native plants for restoration efforts and planting trees for events like Arbor Day and Earth Day.

The greenhouse will allow for activities such as growing plants from seeds and learning how to protect vulnerable plants from cold temperatures. It will also be able to grow and store plants that can be used in other projects and programs.

The Gulf Coast Eco Center was opened last year. It was constructed using RESTORE grant funds.