[U.S. National Science Foundation](https://www.nsf.gov/)

Proposals accepted anytime

~$23,850,000 total program funding; 60–80 awards anticipated per year

Supports research on Earth's near-surface processes—hydrologic, geomorphic, and geochemical—and their interactions, with an emphasis on advancing fundamental Earth surface science.

--- ## Description The Water, Landscape, and Critical Zone Processes (WaLCZ) program funds research that advances understanding of Earth's near-surface environment and its response to natural and anthropogenic change. The program emphasizes the interconnected roles of hydrologic, geomorphic, and geochemical processes in shaping landscapes, regulating water and soil resources, and influencing climate systems. Supported projects should focus on fundamental, hypothesis-driven research that addresses knowledge gaps in Earth surface processes, rather than applied or engineering solutions. Research may span: - Hydrologic processes and water quality/availability at or near the surface - Geomorphic feedbacks and landscape evolution under biological, climatic, and tectonic influences - Aqueous geochemistry and elemental cycling in near-surface systems - Fate and transport of water, solutes, and materials - Critical Zone interactions (biotic and abiotic) impacting soil and topography - Integrated modeling and new technology applications (e.g., geophysics, remote sensing) - Anthropogenic impacts on natural environments Interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary projects are encouraged, especially those that cross boundaries within the Earth sciences or with related fields. Proposals should aim for transformational discoveries and contribute to broadening participation in STEM. --- ## Due Dates - Proposals are accepted at any time; there are no fixed deadlines. --- ## Funding Amount - Estimated total program funding: ~$23,850,000 annually (subject to availability) - Expected number of awards: 60–80 per year - Typical award size and duration vary depending on project scope; consult the solicitation for details. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible organizations:** - U.S. institutions of higher education (2- and 4-year, including community colleges) accredited in and with a campus located in the U.S., applying on behalf of their faculty. - U.S.-based non-profit, non-academic organizations directly associated with educational or research activities (e.g., independent museums, observatories, research labs, professional societies). - **International Branch Campuses:** Proposals involving international branches of U.S. IHEs must justify the need for work at the branch and why it cannot be performed at the U.S. campus. - **PI/Co-PI Restrictions:** None. - **Proposal Limits:** No limits per organization or investigator. - **Note:** Proposals previously declined may not be resubmitted for one year and must be substantially revised. --- ## Application Process - **Submission Platforms:** Proposals may be submitted via [Research.gov](https://www.research.gov/) or [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/). - **Required Documents:** - Full proposal (no letter of intent or preliminary proposal required) - Undergraduate student mentoring plan (if undergraduates are involved) - Field safety protocols (if fieldwork is proposed) - Data and sample management plan (per EAR Division Data Sharing Policy) - Letters of collaboration (if applicable) - Permits and approvals (if required for research activities) - **Budget Guidance:** Equipment requests generally should not exceed $50,000 unless justified; discuss with a program officer if more is needed. - **Cost Sharing:** Not permitted. - **Review Criteria:** Proposals are evaluated using NSF's standard criteria—Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. --- ## Additional Information - The program also accepts proposals under the NSF CAREER, RCN, EMBRACE, and MCA solicitations, as well as RAPID, EAGER, Planning, Conference, and supplemental funding requests (with prior approval). - Proposals for community workshops and projects that broaden participation in geosciences are encouraged. - For interdisciplinary projects, consult with relevant program officers prior to submission to ensure proper alignment. --- ## External Links - [Program Solicitation & Details](https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/walcz-water-landscape-critical-zone-processes/nsf25-519/solicitation) - [NSF Publication 25-519](http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf25519) - [NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG)](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/pappg/24-1) - [Apply via Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/357579) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email | Phone | |--------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------| | WaLCZ Program Inquiries | walcz@nsf.gov | (703) 292-8550 | | Laura Lautz | llautz@nsf.gov | (703) 292-7775 | | Justin E. Lawrence | jlawrenc@nsf.gov | (703) 292-2425 | | Hendratta Ali | heali@nsf.gov | (703) 292-2648 | | NSF Grants.gov Support | grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov | N/A | | NSF Information Center | nsfpubs@nsf.gov | (703) 292-5111 | For technical questions regarding Research.gov: rgov@nsf.gov or 1-800-381-1532 For Grants.gov technical support: support@grants.gov or 1-800-518-4726 ---

Water, Landscape, and Critical Zone Processes

Sign in to see full grant listing