Two area school districts recently got a boost in funding for environmental programs courtesy of the Bowmanstown Rod and Gun Club.

The organization donated $5,000 to Palmerton Area School District and $1,000 to Lehighton Area School District.Palmerton Superintendent Scot Engler said the district received a similar donation and the money was used for field trips.It will be used in a similar manner this year, he said."We're an outdoor group and we know the schools have environmental things that they do so we're hoping that is what it can go toward," said Gordon Walls, Rod and Gun club trustee.Walls was joined by Lee Techentin in visiting board meetings to announce the donations.Lehighton also used the money for environmental education."It's a very generous donation and allows us to continue to provide for our students," said Tim Tkach, Lehighton's director of curriculum, instruction and grants. "The rod and gun club does great work for our kids and community."Walls called the contributions a "small investment into our future and well worth the money."