Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program
Funds projects to restore forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats in Central Appalachia, improving conditions for native birds and aquatic species in key priority areas.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates: July 16, 2026 (Full proposal/application, 12:00 PM ET)
Funding Amounts: $75,000–$500,000 per award; project period up to 4 years; non-federal match preferred but not required.
Summary: Supports projects restoring forests, grasslands, rivers, and streams to enhance wildlife and aquatic habitat in Central Appalachia.
Key Information: Non-federal match equal to or greater than request is preferred; geographic and species priorities apply.
Description
The program funds projects that restore and sustain healthy forests, grasslands, rivers, and streams across the Appalachian region, targeting the improvement of habitat for native birds (notably golden-winged warbler, wood thrush, cerulean warbler) and aquatic species (including eastern brook trout, eastern hellbender, and freshwater mussels). The focus is on enhancing habitat quality and connectivity, restoring dynamic forest blocks, and engaging public and private landowners and practitioners. Priority is given to projects within ten focal geographies across portions of Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
