Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program 2026 Request for Proposals
Funds projects restoring forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats in central Appalachia to benefit wildlife and community resilience through collaborative, science-driven conservation.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: July 16, 2026 (Full Proposal Due Date)
Funding Amounts: $75,000–$500,000 per award; project period up to 4 years; non-federal match preferred but not required.
Summary: Supports projects to restore and sustain forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats, enhancing wildlife populations and community resilience in central Appalachia.
Key Information: Projects must occur in eligible portions of KY, MD, NY, OH, PA, VA, or WV; strong community engagement and measurable conservation metrics are required.
Description
The Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), funds projects that voluntarily restore and maintain healthy forests, grasslands, rivers, and streams in central Appalachia. The program aims to improve habitat quantity, quality, and connectivity for native birds, fish, and other wildlife, while also supporting resilient local communities and natural-resource-based economies. Funded activities may include technical and financial assistance, demonstration projects, education, outreach, and innovative conservation approaches. Emphasis is placed on collaborative management, community engagement, and the integration of traditional and local knowledge.
The geographic focus includes portions of the Ohio River and Upper Tennessee River watersheds in Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Projects must align with program priorities, such as landscape-scale forest and grassland restoration, aquatic ecosystem improvement, and strengthening conservation collaboratives.
