BAKER CITY – Oregon Trail Electric Consumers Cooperative (OTECC) is offering $48,000 in scholarships for the fall 2009 academic period.

OTECC offers 22 $2,000 academic scholarships and two $2000 lineman school scholarships. Four of the academic scholarships are specifically for returning college students

“The OTECC scholarship program is really one of the more meaningful programs we offer. With higher education becoming more and more costly, this is just one way OTECC can help its members pursue their dreams,” said Steve Schauer, OTECC members services manager.

Eligibility requirements for the scholarships are:

? The applicant or parents of the applicant must actively receive electrical service from OTECC.

? The applicant must be of good character (provide two letters of recommendation).

? The applicant must demonstrate a coherent degree plan.

Another important aspect of the scholarship program is that it is not funded directly through electric rates, nor will it affect rates directly. OTECC scholarship funds come from earned interest on unclaimed capital credit money that has been placed into an account.

Those interested in applying for the OTECC scholarship should visit their high school guidance counselor or the local OTECC office. The application deadline is Jan. 16.