Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program 2026 Request for Proposals
This grant supports science-based projects to restore and manage forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats in central Appalachia, improving habitats for key native wildlife and engaging local communities.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: July 16, 2026 (Full Proposal Due Date, 12:00 noon ET)
Funding Amounts: $75,000–$500,000 per award; project duration up to 4 years; total program funding varies by year.
Summary: Supports projects to restore and manage forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats in central Appalachia to benefit native wildlife and local communities.
Key Information: A 1:1 non-federal match is preferred but not required; projects must occur within eligible central Appalachian geographies.
Description
This program funds voluntary conservation projects that restore, enhance, and sustain healthy forests, grasslands, rivers, and streams across central Appalachia. The primary goal is to improve habitat quantity, quality, and connectivity for native wildlife, particularly key indicator species such as the golden-winged warbler, wood thrush, cerulean warbler, brook trout, eastern hellbender, and freshwater mussels. Supported activities include large-scale habitat restoration, technical and financial assistance to landowners, innovative conservation approaches, and strengthening collaborative conservation networks. Projects are expected to engage both public and private landowners and demonstrate measurable conservation outcomes, while also fostering community involvement and benefiting local economies.
