Playa Lakes Joint Venture

Colorado Wildlife Conservation Grants

The Colorado Division of Wildlife administers this competitive grant program to support projects to conserve, restore or enhance Colorado’s threatened, endangered or declining wildlife species. The Colorado Wildlife Conservation Grant (CWCG) program is funded through the federal State Wildlife Grant program.

Bring Back the Natives

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S.D.A. Forest Service, and Trout Unlimited, is pleased to request pre-proposals from nonprofit organizations, universities, Native American tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies interested in restoring, protecting, and enhancing native populations of sensitive or listed aquatic species, especially on lands on or adjacent to federal agency lands. Funding for the BBN program is administered through NFWF from federal agencies cooperating to support this program. This funding requires a $2 non-federal match for each federal dollar requested by applicants. Since 1991, BBN has supported 279 projects and benefited over 120 species, 29 of which are federally listed as threatened or endangered. Pre-proposals are due Dec. 1, 2009, and if invited, full proposals are due Feb. 1, 2010.

Colorado Wetland and Riparian Restoration, Enhancement & Creation Grant Program

The Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) is making up to $1.7 million available for wetland and riparian restoration, enhancement, and creation projects to support its Wetlands Program Strategic Plan. The Colorado Wetland’s for Wildlife Program is a voluntary, collaborative, and incentive-based program to protect, restore, enhance and create wetlands and riparian areas in Colorado. The intent of this funding is to support the improvement of the distribution and abundance of ducks, and opportunities for public waterfowl hunting, and the status of declining or at-risk species. Funds are allocated annually to the program. Projects are selected by a Division of Wildlife committee of biologists and field operations staff. Applications are due February 26, 2010, and should be submitted electronically to the Wetlands Program Coordinator in a single file (MS-Word or Adobe PDF format) of less than 5MB.

Five Star Restoration Grants

The Five Star Restoration Program provides modest financial assistance on a competitive basis to support community-based wetland, riparian, and coastal habitat restoration projects that build diverse partnerships and foster local natural resource stewardship through education, outreach and training activities. Funding levels are from $5,000 to $20,000, with $10,000 as the average amount awarded per project. Full proposals are due Feb. 15, 2008.

FWS Private Stewardship Grants

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service administers the Private Stewardship Grant Program that supports conservation projects to benefit imperiled species on private lands. This program provides federal grants on a competitive basis to individuals and groups engaged in voluntary conservation efforts on private lands that help federally listed endangered or threatened species as well as proposed, candidate and other at-risk species.

North Star Science and Technology Transmitter Grant Program

North Star Science and Technology, LLC and American Bird Conservancy administer the North Star Science and Technology Transmitter Grant Program which awards a total of eight satellite transmitters to one or two recipients to study bird migration. The program is open to projects throughout the world. Research that contributes to our knowledge of avian biology and that provides data useful for bird conservation, particularly of threatened species, will receive preference in the selection process.

Captain Planet Foundation

The mission of the Captain Planet Foundation is to support hands-on environmental projects for youth in grades K-12. Our objective is to encourage innovative activities that empower children around the world to work individually and collectively as environmental stewards. The program funds projects that: focus on hands-on involvement, involve children and young adults 6-18, promote interaction and cooperation within the group, help young people develop planning and problem solving skills, include adult supervision, and commit to follow-up communication with the Foundation. Generally, the range of grants awarded by the Foundation is $250 - $2,500 and deadlines for submitting applications are March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

Colorado Conservation Innovation Grants

The Natural Resources Conservation Service of Colorado recently announced the availability of up to $800,000 for proposed projects in Colorado through Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) in Fiscal Year 2007. Individual applications will be awarded up to $75,000 through a statewide competitive grants process for improving conservation practices in Colorado. The purpose of CIG, a component of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production. Selected applicants may receive grants of up to 50 percent of the total project cost. Applications must be received in the Colorado NRCS State Office, Room E200C by 4:30 p.m. (MST) on May 18, 2009.

Colorado Department of Agriculture's (CDA) Noxious Weed Management Fund

The primary objective of the CDA Noxious Weed Management Fund is to provide additional financial resources to communities, weed control districts, or other entities engaged in cooperative efforts in eradication and/or containment of state, regionally, or locally rare noxious weed species/populations and to prevent the advancement of high priority weed populations from spreading further. Organized private interests as well as public agencies and local governments may apply for assistance provided that awarded funds will be used to enhance weed management efforts within the State of Colorado. With CDA’s limited funding, this year’s proposals that address eradication efforts of List A species or List B species required for eradication will be given priority. Proposals must have a management orientation. The due date for application submission is March 26, 2010 by 5:00pm.

Wildlife Action Opportunities Fund

The Wildlife Conservation Society’s North America Program has announced the fourth round of grantmaking through its Wildlife Action Opportunities Fund, which supports nonprofit conservation organizations, state fish and wildlife agencies, and tribal governments in their efforts to protect wildlife as prioritized by a number of landscape-scale strategic habitat conservation plans, including State Wildlife Action Plans. Pre-proposal applications are due March 26, 2010.

Acres for America

Acres for America is a partnership between Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The Acres for America program was established to provide funding for projects that conserve important habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants through acquisition of interest in real property. The goal of the Acres for America program is to offset the footprint of Wal-Mart’s domestic facilities on at least an acre by acre basis through these acquisitions. The NFWF is currently accepting applications for projects to acquire lands that meet identified criteria and will have a minimum 1:1 match of cash or contributed goods and services. Federal funds may be considered as match and higher ratios of matching funds will at times aid in making applications more competitive. Approximately $2.5 million will be available annually through 2014 for conservation investments. Applicants are strongly urged to

regional director in their area to discuss project ideas prior to submitting preproposals. The pre-proposal deadline is April 1 and Sept. 1 of each year, and if invited to submit, full proposals are due June 1 and Nov. 1.

NRCS: Conservation Innovation Grants

The Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) is a voluntary program intended to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production. Under CIG, Environmental Quality Incentives Program funds are used to award competitive grants to non-federal governmental or non-governmental organizations, tribes, or individuals. USDA encourages beginning farmers and ranchers, limited resource farmers or ranchers, Indian tribes or community-based organizations that service these groups to apply for grants. Ten percent of the total funding is being set aside for this purpose. CIG has three competitions available - National, Mississippi River Basin and Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Applicants must submit pre-proposals to NRCS’s National Headquarters in Washington, D.C. by close of business on Monday, April 26, 2010. Applications will be accepted from the 50 states, Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands) and the Pacific Islands Area (Guam, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). Full applications for selected pre-proposals must be submitted by June 4, 2010.

NRCS: Conservation Security Program

CSP is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to promote the conservation and improvement of soil, water, air, energy, plant and animal life, and other conservation purposes on Tribal and private working lands in targeted watersheds. Working lands include cropland, grassland, prairie land, improved pasture, and range land, as well as forested land that is an incidental part of an agriculture operation. The program is available in all 50 States, the Caribbean Area and the Pacific Basin area. Sign up for 2008 is open from April 18 to May 16.

Patagonia Conservation Grants

Patagonia supports small, grassroots activist organizations with provocative direct-action agendas, working on multi-pronged campaigns to preserve and protect our environment. We help local groups working to protect local habitat. We look for innovative groups that produce measurable results, and we like to support efforts that force the government to abide by its own laws. Because we’re a privately held company, we have the freedom to fund groups off the beaten track, and that’s where we believe our small grants are most effective. Most grants are in the range of $3,000 to $8,000.

Multi-state Conservation Grants

Jointly administered by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Multistate Conservation Grant Program provides $6 million annually for sport fish and wildlife projects that benefit the state fish and wildlife agencies.  State agencies and non-governmental organizations are eligible for grants.  Projects must benefit sport fish, wild birds, and/or wild mammals; and must benefit at least 26 states, a majority of states in a USFWS region, or state wildlife agency regional associations. Grants are awarded on a calendar-year basis for one, two or three years. Letters of intent are due May 2, 2008 and if invited, full proposals are due in July.

NRCS: Conservation Security Program

CSP is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to promote the conservation and improvement of soil, water, air, energy, plant and animal life, and other conservation purposes on Tribal and private working lands in targeted watersheds. Working lands include cropland, grassland, prairie land, improved pasture, and range land, as well as forested land that is an incidental part of an agriculture operation. The program is available in all 50 States, the Caribbean Area and the Pacific Basin area. Sign up for 2008 is open from April 18 to May 16.

Captain Planet Foundation

The mission of the Captain Planet Foundation is to support hands-on environmental projects for youth in grades K-12. Our objective is to encourage innovative activities that empower children around the world to work individually and collectively as environmental stewards. The program funds projects that: focus on hands-on involvement, involve children and young adults 6-18, promote interaction and cooperation within the group, help young people develop planning and problem solving skills, include adult supervision, and commit to follow-up communication with the Foundation. Generally, the range of grants awarded by the Foundation is $250 - $2,500 and deadlines for submitting applications are March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

Colorado Wildlife Habitat Protection Program

The Colorado Division of Wildlife has announced a request for applications for the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Protection Program. The program accepts applications from landowners, land trusts or other conservation organizations that address one or more of the following priorities: critical winter range for big game species, critical migration corridors for big game, important habitat for sage dependent species, important access for hunting and fishing opportunities, species of concern, threatened and endangered species, and wetland and riparian areas. Applications will be accepted through June 16, 2008. Up to $15 million will be made available for the best applications received.

Long-billed Curlew Conservation Action Plan

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in Region 6 for nongame bird projects has $10,000 to support research items in the Long-billed Curlew Conservation Action Plan. Contact Stephanie Jones with the USFWS to get a copy of the action plan and for more information on how to apply. Submit paperwork to Stephanie Jones not through the website. The paperwork is different for USFWS stations and must be requested. The due date is June 30, 2008.

National High School Challenge: Classroom Earth

The National Environmental Education Foundation offers this grant program that supports teachers’ efforts to incorporate environmental themes and education into the classroom and coursework. The two grants available are Course Integration Grants and Professional Development Grants. Supports teachers as they integrate environmental themes across one or more courses. The Professional Development Grant is for teachers who want to learn more about environmental education and its purpose and place in the classroom.

National Wildlife Refuge Friends Group Grant Program

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, along with its partners, recognizes the important role refuge Friends organizations play in building critical community support for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wildlife Refuge System. As such, we are requesting proposals for projects that assist organizations to be effective co-stewards of our Nation’s important natural resources within the National Wildlife Refuge System. This program provides competitive seed grants ($1,500 - $5,000) to creative and innovative proposals that seek to increase the number and effectiveness of organizations interested in assisting the Refuge System nationwide. Applications are due June 2.

Nature of Learning

Offered through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuges and National Conservation Training Center, and the National Wildlife Refuge Association, The Nature of Learning grant program offers awards of up to $10,000 to support community-based environmental education initiatives that use Refuges as outdoor classrooms to promote a greater understanding of local conservation issues. Schools or non-profit organizations, including "Friends" groups, Cooperative and Interpretive Associations, Audubon Chapters, etc., are eligible to apply. Applications are due June 16, 2008.

New Mexico Share With Wildlife Grants

The Conservation Services Division of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish administers this program, which addresses conservation needs in the state through biological and ecological studies, conservation education, habitat conservation and wildlife rehabilitation. Proposals may for up to $15,000 for up to a 12-month period beginning between August 2010 and June 2011. No matching funds are required. The deadline is June 24, 2010.. Contact Chuck Hayes at 505-476-8111 for more information.

TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership Program

The TogetherGreen Conservation Leadership program is a fellowship program, sponsored by the Audubon Society, that invests in both proven and promising leaders who are committed to empower others and to create positive environmental change in their communities and organizations. In 2008, 40 fellows will be selected to participate in this 16-month program. Fellows will be selected from the National Audubon network as well as from other organizations. Benefits include: professional development and networking opportunities, financial support to attend conferences, a grant for $10,000 to support a Conservation Action Project as well as opportunities to secure additional funding through the TogetherGreen Innovation Grants program. The deadline for applications is June 27, 2008. Contact Anne Ferguson, 202-861-2242 ext. 3046 for more information.

Multi-state Conservation Grants

Jointly administered by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Multistate Conservation Grant Program provides $6 million annually for sport fish and wildlife projects that benefit the state fish and wildlife agencies.  State agencies and non-governmental organizations are eligible for grants.  Projects must benefit sport fish, wild birds, and/or wild mammals; and must benefit at least 26 states, a majority of states in a USFWS region, or state wildlife agency regional associations. Grants are awarded on a calendar-year basis for one, two or three years. Letters of intent are due May 2, 2008 and if invited, full proposals are due in July.

National Forest Foundation Matching Grants Program

The National Forest Foundation (NFF) engages America in community-based and national programs that promote the health and public enjoyment of the 192-million-acre National Forest System. The NFF is interested in action-oriented projects that enhance the viability of natural resources while considering benefits to, and the involvement of, surrounding communities. The NFF will accept applications from non-governmental, nonprofit organizations working on or adjacent to National Forests and Grasslands throughout the United States. Areas of programmatic emphasis include: Wildlife Habitat Improvement, Recreation, Community-Based Forestry, and Watershed Health and Restoration. The deadline for applications is 27 July 2007.

NAWCA Standard Grants

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act of 1989 provides matching grants to organizations and individuals who have developed partnerships to carry out wetlands conservation projects in the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the benefit of wetlands-associated migratory birds and other wildlife. The Standard Grants Program supports projects that involve long-term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitats. The maximum grant award is $1 million. Applicants within the PLJV region are strongly encouraged to review the PLJV Standard Grant Timeline at least one year in advance of developing a proposal. For 2009, proposal submission deadline is July 31.

New Mexico River Ecosystem Restoration Initiative

The New Mexico Environment Department is soliciting proposals from qualified entities to compete for a portion of $1.5 million to help restore and improve the health of New Mexico’s rivers and streams. This is the third year of Governor Richardson’s historic River Ecosystem Restoration Initiative, which is designed to sustain, re-establish and rehabilitate New Mexico’s river ecosystems through the enhancement of physical, chemical and biological characteristics. The initiative funded $2.8 million for 15 projects in 2008, including improvements on the Middle Rio Grande, Rio Puerco, Dry Cimarron, Lower Rio Grande, La Jencia Creek, Cieneguilla Creek, Galisteo Creek, Upper Pecos River, San Juan River, Cebolla Creek, San Antonio Creek, Abo Arroyo, the Gila River and two projects along the Santa Fe  River. Another $2.5 million funded 13 projects in 2007. Those projects included work across the state on the Rio Grande, Pecos River, Rio Puerco, Gila River, Canadian River, Mora River, Rio San Jose, Cloverdale Creek, Rio de los Pinos, Bottomless Lakes, and Galisteo Creek. Work that may be funded this year includes: physical habitat restoration within a stream; enhancement of environmental flow; improvement of riparian vegetative cover for the purpose of river restoration; reduction of pollutants to rivers; promoting the hydrologic interaction between the river channel and floodplain, including bank lowering; and restoring dynamic channel processes such as accretion on new banks, bar building, channel widening, and channel sinuosity. Those processes involve adding sediment, rocks and vegetation to redirect the river to a more desirable pathway to redirect the river to a more desirable pathway. The removal of non-native phreatophytes, which include water-loving Salt Cedar and Russian Olive trees, will not be funded except as part of a more comprehensive river restoration project. Projects on government land will be considered as will projects on private land if there is a measurable benefit to the state and the public. Funding can be provided to any entity that is able to manage the technical and financial aspects of a project. RERI is a program in which contractors incur expenses and then seek reimbursement through a contract with the state.

Proposals must be received by 3 p.m. MDT Monday, Aug. 10 at the address below.

Proposals received after that deadline will not be accepted. The New Mexico Environmental Department will hold the following two meetings to explain the RERI application process and answer questions from those who wish to submit proposals:

Santa Fe: From 3 to 4:30 p.m., July 14

NMED Hazardous Waste Bureau, Conference Room A

2905 Rodeo Park Drive, East Building 1

Socorro: From 3 to 4:30 p.m., July 15

U.S. Bureau of Land Management Office

901 S. Highway 85

Patagonia Conservation Grants

Patagonia supports small, grassroots activist organizations with provocative direct-action agendas, working on multi-pronged campaigns to preserve and protect our environment. We help local groups working to protect local habitat. We look for innovative groups that produce measurable results, and we like to support efforts that force the government to abide by its own laws. Because we’re a privately held company, we have the freedom to fund groups off the beaten track, and that’s where we believe our small grants are most effective. Most grants are in the range of $3,000 to $8,000.

USFWS Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking proposals from states and U.S. territories interested in obtaining federal grant assistance to acquire land or conduct planning for endangered species conservation efforts. For fiscal year 2010, the President’s budget request for the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund includes approximately $100 million in grant funding for conservation planning activities and habitat acquisition benefiting federally protected species. Proposals must be submitted to the appropriate Service Regional Offices by August 19, 2009.

Acres for America

Acres for America is a partnership between Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The Acres for America program was established to provide funding for projects that conserve important habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants through acquisition of interest in real property. The goal of the Acres for America program is to offset the footprint of Wal-Mart’s domestic facilities on at least an acre by acre basis through these acquisitions. The NFWF is currently accepting applications for projects to acquire lands that meet identified criteria and will have a minimum 1:1 match of cash or contributed goods and services. Federal funds may be considered as match and higher ratios of matching funds will at times aid in making applications more competitive. Approximately $2.5 million will be available annually through 2014 for conservation investments. Applicants are strongly urged to

regional director in their area to discuss project ideas prior to submitting preproposals. The pre-proposal deadline is April 1 and Sept. 1 of each year, and if invited to submit, full proposals are due June 1 and Nov. 1.

Advancing Colorado's Renewable Energy Program

Grants are available for on-farm energy projects in Colorado. Grant funds totaling $500,000 are now available through the Advancing Colorado Renewable Energy Program to promote agricultural energy-related projects. Funds will be allocated in three categories: feasibility studies, project participation and research. Projects must, in some way, benefit Colorado’s agriculture industry and may include biofuels development, biomass conversion and wind and solar energy. Interested applicants are required to provide a matching contribution of at least 10 percent of the total project budget and funds may not be utilized for paying down current expenses for indirect institutional overhead costs. Requests for proposal for the 2011 year are expected to be released in late 2010.

Captain Planet Foundation

The mission of the Captain Planet Foundation is to support hands-on environmental projects for youth in grades K-12. Our objective is to encourage innovative activities that empower children around the world to work individually and collectively as environmental stewards. The program funds projects that: focus on hands-on involvement, involve children and young adults 6-18, promote interaction and cooperation within the group, help young people develop planning and problem solving skills, include adult supervision, and commit to follow-up communication with the Foundation. Generally, the range of grants awarded by the Foundation is $250 - $2,500 and deadlines for submitting applications are March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

Colorado Habitat Partnership Program Improvement Grants

The Habitat Partnership Program (HPP) of the Colorado Division of Wildlife announced on March 6, 2008, a new grant program that provides funding for efforts to improve wildlife an livestock forage through habitat projects.  Applications for the Habitat Improvement Grant Program are available online (see link below) or through local HPP Committee members. Typical habitat improvement projects include burning, weed control, water development, fertilization, seeding and mechanical brush treatments. Priority will be given to projects proposed by multiple partnering individuals and/or agencies. Applications for the Habitat Improvement Grant Program are due by Sept. 1, 2008. Grants will be awarded in December. Projects utilizing grant money must be completed prior to Dec. 31, 2011. For more information about HPP or the Habitat Improvement Grant Program, contact Pat Tucker at (970) 255-6188 or e-mail pat.tucker@state.co.us.

ConocoPhillips SPIRIT of Conservation Migratory Bird Program

The SPIRIT of Conservation Migratory Bird Program is a partnership between ConocoPhillips and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The purpose of this partnership is to provide grants for bird habitat conservation projects in areas where ConocoPhillips has an operating presence. Priority will be given to projects in regions where ConocoPhillips has an operating presence, including the following regions in North America: Western Canada; Gulf of Mexico states, including Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama; Prairie states, including Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming; and Delaware Bay.  ConocoPhillips provides $600,000 for this program annually; minimum grant size is $25,000. Pre-proposals are due Sept. 1, and if invited to submit, full proposals are due Nov. 1.

David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program

The Society for Conservation Biology is pleased to solicit applications for the David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program. These two year post-doctoral fellowships enable outstanding early-career scientists to improve and expand their research skills while directing their efforts towards problems of pressing conservation concern for the United States. The Program especially encourages individuals who want to better link conservation science and theory with pressing policy and management applications to apply. We envision that the cadre of scientists supported by the Smith Fellows Program eventually will assume leadership positions across the field of conservation science. Fellows are selected on the basis of innovation, potential for leadership and strength of proposal. The deadline for receipt of application materials is 24 September 2010. The Program expects to select four Fellows in January 2011 for appointments to start between March and September 2011. Fellowship awards include an annual salary of $50,000, benefits, and generous travel and research budgets. Questions may be directed to Shonda Foster, Program Coordinator, by emailing sfoster@conbio.org.

DoD Legacy Resource Management Fund

The Department of Defense (DoD) Legacy Resource Management Fund is potentially appropriate for anyone working with the DoD regarding natural resource issues on military bases. These projects must be on military installations or have direct benefits to military personnel and families. Either U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or DoD can apply for these funds. Legacy funds assist DoD in protection and enhancing resources while supporting military readiness. Potential projects include regional ecosystem management initiatives, habitat preservation, invasive species control and monitoring and predicting migratory patterns of birds. DoD base biologists should be aware of this program. The deadline for pre-proposals is September 5, 2008 and the full proposal deadline is Oct. 31, 2008.

EPA National Wetland Program Development Grants

The EPA National Wetland Program Development Grants (WPDG) program provides an opportunity to carry out projects to develop and refine comprehensive wetland programs. The EPA is soliciting proposals for fiscal year 2008 from eligible applicants for projects that support and build state, tribal and local government wetland programs. The estimated total program funding is $600,000 with an expected 10 awards granted. All projects submitted must involve two or more states and/or tribes and/or benefit two or more states and/or tribes or be nationwide in scope. Proposals submitted by applicants also should address one or more of the three national priority areas of the WPDG program including: regulation, monitoring and assessment and restoration. The authority for the grant program is Section 104(b)(3) of the Clean Water Act, which restricts the use of these grant funds to improve wetland programs by conducting or promoting the coordination and acceleration of research, investigations, experiments, training, demonstrations, surveys and studies relating to the causes, effects, extent, prevention, reduction and elimination of water pollution. Implementation projects are not eligible for funding. The closing date for applications is September 8, 2008. Refer to the full announcement, including Section IV, for additional information on submission methods and due dates. 

Legacy Resource Management Program

In 1990, Congress passed legislation establishing the Legacy Resource Management Program to provide financial assistance to the Department of Defense efforts to preserve our natural and cultural heritage. The program assists DoD in protecting and enhancing resources while supporting military readiness. A Legacy project may involve regional ecosystem management initiatives, habitat preservation efforts, archaeological investigations, invasive species control, Native American consultations, and/or monitoring and predicting migratory patterns of birds and animals.

Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation

The mission of the Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation is to support educators in developing environmental curricula that integrates field activities, classroom teaching, basic ecological principles and problem solving.  Grants of up to $1,500 are offered to educators to further this mission. Applications are due Sept. 27, 2008.

Nebraska State Wildlife Grants

NFWF Keystone Initiative Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation awards matching grants under the Keystone Initiatives to achieve measurable outcomes in the conservation of fish, wildlife, plants and the habitats on which they depend.  Awards are made on a competitive basis to eligible grant recipients, including federal, tribal, state, and local governments, educational institutions, and non-profit conservation organizations. Project proposals are received on a year-round, revolving basis with two decision cycles per year. For the current cycle, pre-proposals are due Sept. 1, 2007 and, if invited to submit, full proposals are due Nov. 1, 2007.  Grants generally range from $50,000-$300,000 and typically require a minimum 2:1 non-federal match. Keystone Initiatives include: Bird Conservation, Fish Conservation, Wildlife and Habitat Conservation, and Marine and Coastal Conservation.

Tribal Wildlife Grants program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is requesting grant proposals from federally recognized Tribes for projects that will conserve fish and wildlife resources on tribal lands. Tribal Wildlife Grants are used to provide technical and financial assistance to Tribes for the development and implementation of programs that benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitat. Activities may include, but are not limited to, planning for wildlife and habitat conservation, fish and wildlife conservation and management actions, fish and wildlife related laboratory and field research, natural history studies, habitat mapping, field surveys and population monitoring, habitat preservation, conservation easements, and public education that is relevant to the project. The funds may be used for salaries, equipment, consultant services, subcontracts, acquisitions and travel. Proposals are due Sept. 1, 2009.

DoD Legacy Resource Management Fund

The Department of Defense (DoD) Legacy Resource Management Fund is potentially appropriate for anyone working with the DoD regarding natural resource issues on military bases. These projects must be on military installations or have direct benefits to military personnel and families. Either U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or DoD can apply for these funds. Legacy funds assist DoD in protection and enhancing resources while supporting military readiness. Potential projects include regional ecosystem management initiatives, habitat preservation, invasive species control and monitoring and predicting migratory patterns of birds. DoD base biologists should be aware of this program. The deadline for pre-proposals is September 5, 2008 and the full proposal deadline is Oct. 31, 2008.

NAWCA Small Grants

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act of 1989 provides matching grants to organizations and individuals who have developed partnerships to carry out wetlands conservation projects in the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the benefit of wetlands-associated migratory birds and other wildlife. The Small Grants Program operates only in the United States; it supports the same type of projects and adheres to the same selection criteria and administrative guidelines as the U.S. Standard Grants Program. However, project activities are usually smaller in scope and involve fewer project dollars. Grant requests may not exceed $75,000, and funding priority is given to grantees or partners new to the Act’s Grants Program. The application deadline for FY 2010 is Oct. 29, 2009. Applicants within the PLJV region are strongly urged to review the PLJV Small NAWCA checklist well in advance of developing a proposal.

New Mexico State Forestry Noxious Weed Grant Program

New Mexico Energy Minerals and Natural Resources Department, Forestry Division is accepting grant proposals for the Invasive Weeds Grant Program.  This is a United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service grant that flows through the New Mexico Forestry Division.  This program emphasizes funding the development of Cooperative Weed Management Areas and subsequent treatment programs that will help treat and prevent the spread of noxious weeds in areas that threaten forest and woodland areas.  Projects typically include startup of Cooperative Weed Management Areas, mapping infestations of noxious weeds, educational workshops and/or trainings and treatment and monitoring of infested areas.  Proposals are due by October 31, 2007.

St Andrews Prize for the Environment

The St Andrews Prize for the Environment is an initiative by the University of St Andrews in Scotland and the international integrated energy company, ConocoPhillips. The Prize recognises significant contributions to environmental conservation and since its launch in 1998 has attracted entries from more than 50 countries each year on diverse topics including; sustainable development in the Amazon rainforest, urban regeneration, recycling, health and water issues and renewable energy Submissions for the annual prize are assessed by a panel of eminent trustees representing science, industry and government with the award going to the project the Trustees consider displays the best combination of good science, economic realism and political acceptability. Applications are due Oct. 31, 2008.

Anheuser-Busch Environmental Excellence Awards

Since 1993, the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks have recognized the outstanding efforts of K-12 students and teachers across the country who are working at the grassroots level to protect and preserve the environment. The "SeaWorld/Busch Gardens/Fujifilm Environmental Excellence Awards" provides school and community groups with a monetary award, national recognition and some well-deserved fun at one of our parks. Eight winning groups are selected each year to win $10,000.  One environmental educator/leader each year receives $5,000. Applications are due Nov. 20, 2009.

ConocoPhillips/PLJV Grants

The Playa Lakes Joint Venture administers an annual grant program funded by longtime partner ConocoPhillips that supports projects that promote the PLJV mission within the Joint Venture’s boundaries. The PLJV supports and promotes habitat conservation for wintering, migrating and breeding birds that occur on playa lakes, saline lakes, marshes, riparian areas and associated uplands in portions of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Funding is available for habitat conservation, research and education/outreach projects and is limited to no more than $25,000 per project per year.

Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act

The Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act Grant program funds projects that promote the conservation of these birds in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean. Projects may include activities to benefit bird populations and habitats, research and monitoring, law enforcement, and outreach and education.  Applications are due Nov. 13, 2008 and funding for the program is estimated to be $4.5 million. Project proposals need to demonstrate how a conservation partnership’s activities will foster sustainable, effective, long-term programs to conserve Neotropical migratory birds. The Act defines conservation as: protection and management of Neotropical migratory bird populations; maintenance, management, protection, and restoration of habitats of these birds; research and monitoring; law enforcement; and community outreach and education.

State Wildlife Grant Competitive Program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting proposals for the State Wildlife Grant Program through Nov. 17. The program awards grants for cooperative conservation projects that implement State Wildlife Action Plans. Approximately $4.9 million will be available and grants range from $300,000 to $1 million.

Webless Migratory Game Bird Research and Management Program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has released a request for proposal for the Webless Migratory Game Bird Research and Management Program (WMGBRMP) for Fiscal Year 2011 (starting October 1, 2010). The primary purpose of the WMGBP is to support activities that will improve management of the 16 species of migratory shore and upland game birds in North America. The Migratory Shore and Upland Game Bird Support Task Force, organized through the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, developed a set of priority information needs by convening a series of workshops. Priorities identified at the workshops should be used to guide proposal development and will be used by the review committee to select projects that address these priority information needs. The US Fish and Wildlife Service will oversee the WMGBP including administration of grants, purchase orders, and contracts for projects. Proposed projects must provide match of at least one-third of the total project cost. A substantial portion of project funding supported by real dollars will be considered favorably, however, in-kind services, such as salaries of permanent employees and vehicle expenses, are acceptable as matching funds. Proposals must be received by Nov. 1, 2010. Contact Thomas Cooper for more information.

Captain Planet Foundation

The mission of the Captain Planet Foundation is to support hands-on environmental projects for youth in grades K-12. Our objective is to encourage innovative activities that empower children around the world to work individually and collectively as environmental stewards. The program funds projects that: focus on hands-on involvement, involve children and young adults 6-18, promote interaction and cooperation within the group, help young people develop planning and problem solving skills, include adult supervision, and commit to follow-up communication with the Foundation. Generally, the range of grants awarded by the Foundation is $250 - $2,500 and deadlines for submitting applications are March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

PLJV State Capacity Grants

The Playa Lakes Joint Venture (PLJV) Capacity Grant Program was initiated in 2002 to provide state-based organizations or partnerships additional resources to deliver habitat conservation projects that address PLJV priorities as stated in the PLJV’s Area Implementation Plans. States receive $20,000 each year through this program. The grants are intended to increase the ongoing capacity within states to develop and deliver habitat projects, rather than directly support habitat, research, and/or education/outreach projects.  Successful state capacity grants result in sustainable local conservation partnerships.  These partnerships may be focus areas, habitat partnerships, or other coalitions wanting to do habitat conservation work.  These promising conservation partnerships, once funded, work to strengthen their infrastructure and their ability to contribute to PLJV habitat objectives.  Generally, it is rare that a short-term, narrowly-defined, non-partnership project develops the long-term project capacity desired by this program and such proposals are discouraged.  Potential projects are reviewed by the state which then submits a final application to the PLJV.  Interested applicants MUST work with and contact their state representative on the PLJV management board. The PLJV will not accept proposals which are not vetted through the state.

Dixon Water Foundation

The mission of the Dixon Water Foundation is education, outreach and research on water issues, with a particular focus on ecologically and financially sustainable land management that will enhance water retention and minimize erosion in watersheds.The Foundation makes grants for projects (preferably in Texas) addressing the Foundation’s mission to nonprofit organizations that are recognized as charitable organizations by the Internal Revenue Service.  Grant applications are accepted throughout the year.  The review process may take up to six months. Applicants should submit a proposal containing the following information: Project Description - A description (2 - 3 pages) of the proposed project, project schedule (including the expected results and process for evaluation), and grant request. Project Budget - A line-item budget for the proposed project and the amounts and sources of matching, committed and pending funds. Organizational Profile - A description (1 page) of the organization, its mission and achievements; names and qualifications of key project staff; a current list of the organization’s board of directors or trustees with short bio. Supporting Information - The organization’s current operating budget (including revenue and expenses) and year to date financial statements; a copy of the current tax-exempt ruling from the Internal Revenue Service; the organization’s most recently audited financial statements; a complete copy of the organization’s most recently filed IRS Form 990, including Schedule A and all supporting schedules. Two copies of the above information should be mailed or delivered to: Grants, The Dixon Water Foundation, 6060 N. Central Expressway, #305, Dallas, Texas 75206. Please note: They do not accept grant applications through the internet.

FSA: CRP SAFE Initiative (CP38)

In March 2007, the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) introduced this new initiative, State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE), to fund up to $1 billion and set aside 500,000 acres of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) for habitat for high-priority wildlife species throughout the United States. The agency announced in early 2008 qualifying projects. SAFEs approved in the PLJV region include: Kansas Upland Game Birds SAFE, New Mexico Prairie-Chicken SAFE, Oklahoma Mixed Grass Prairie SAFE, Colorado Lesser Prairie-Chicken SAFE, Colorado Shortgrass Prairie SAFE, and Texas Mixed Grass SAFE.

FSA: Northern Bobwhite Quail Habitat Initiative (CP33)

USDA Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Northern Bobwhite Quail Habitat Initiative is aimed at creating 250,000 acres of habitat for the northern bobwhite quail. The initiative introduces a conservation practice (CP33) intended to create 250,000 acres of early successional grass buffers along agricultural field borders. Enrollment is targeted to specific geographic areas in 35 states that have the greatest potential to restore bobwhite quail habitat, including all of the playa lakes states. In April 2007, Kansas was allocated an additional 35,000 acres for the program. In October 2008, additional incentives for the program were being offered to expiring and new CRP contract holders.

FSA: Wetlands Restoration Initiative (CP23a)

USDA Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Wetlands Restoration Initiative aims to restore up to 250,000 acres of wetlands and playa lakes that are located outside of the 100-year floodplain. Enrollment is limited to wetlands, including playa lakes, that are beyond the 100-year floodplain. The wetlands acreage must also not be currently eligible for enrollment in either: CRP continuous sign-up practice CP23, Wetland Restoration, which targets land located in the 100-year floodplain; or FSA’s Farmable Wetlands Program, which protects farmed and previously converted wetlands of less than 40 acres per tract. In October 2008, additional incentives were being offered for this program to new and expiring CRP contract holders.

Meadows Foundation

The Meadows Foundation grant program is open to 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas. Grants are made in five areas: Arts and Culture; Civic and Public Affairs (including the natural environment); Education; Health and Human Services. If possible, one-half of grants awarded each year are given to organizations not previously supported. There is no formal application form. Grant applications are accepted at any time throughout the year. Each organization is limited to one application within a twelve-month period. Applications are usually processed within three to four months.

NRCS: Wetlands Reserve Program

The Wetlands Reserve Program is a voluntary program offering landowners the opportunity to protect, restore, and enhance wetlands on their property.  The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial support to help landowners with their wetland restoration efforts.  The NRCS goal is to achieve the greatest wetland functions and values, along with optimum wildlife habitat, on every acre enrolled in the program.  This program offers landowners an opportunity to establish long-term conservation and wildlife practices and protection.

NRCS: Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program

The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) is a voluntary program for people who want to develop or improve wildlife habitat on tribal and private lands. It provides both technical assistance and cost sharing to help establish and improve fish and wildlife habitat.

Colorado Species Conservation Partnership

The Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund (GOCO), in partnership with the Colorado Division of Wildlife, private landowners and non-governmental organizations throughout the state have developed a far-reaching species conservation program with the Department of Interior. The program is designed to accept applications from landowners, land trusts or other conservation organizations that own property which include needed habitat for: Gunnison sage grouse, Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse, Shortgrass Prairie species, Lesser prairie chicken and Greater sage grouse.

Great Outdoors Colorado Grants

The Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) administers a variety of grant programs, including those that support wildlife, outdoor recreation, parks and local government-led open space projects. GOCO receives its funding through Colorado state lottery proceeds. Since it began awarding grants in 1994, GOCO has awarded almost $489 million for 2,100 projects throughout the state.

NRCS: Environmental Quality Incentives Program

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program is a voluntary conservation program for farmers and ranchers that promotes agricultural production and environmental quality as compatible national goals. EQIP offers financial and technical help to assist eligible participants install or implement structural and management practices on eligible agricultural land. EQIP offers contracts with a minimum term that ends one year after the implementation of the last scheduled practices and a maximum term of ten years. These contracts provide incentive payments and cost-shares to implement conservation practices.