Grants are now available to 4-H clubs, FFA chapters and Family Career and Community Leaders of America Chapters, according to the South Dakota Department of Agriculture.

The money is available through the Building Our South Dakota Rural Communities grant program, according to an Ag Department news release.

The grants were developed to demonstrate the importance of rural communities and the value of organizations working together to improve rural life, according to the news release.

Two types of grants are available. The basic grant is used for community improvement projects and is limited to $750 per project. The safety grant is used for projects that enhance public safety and is limited to $200 per project.

Any 4-H club or FFA/FCCLA chapter in South Dakota can apply for the grant. Applications are due by Oct. 31. Awards are announced at the end of November.

Grant application forms are available on the department's Web site or by calling (605) 773-5436.