F26AS00030 Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund: Recovery Land Acquisition Grant Program
This grant supports state and federal partnerships to buy land or easements that help recover endangered species, in line with US Fish and Wildlife Service recovery plans.
Funder: Fish and Wildlife Service
Due Dates: November 20, 2026: Closing Date for Applications
Funding Amounts: Estimated total program funding: $14,162,000 | Award range: $10,000–$14,162,000 | ~15 awards expected | Up to 3-year project period
Summary: Supports state-led acquisition of land or conservation easements to protect habitat for listed species under FWS-approved recovery plans.
Key Information: Cost share required (minimum 25% non-Federal; 10% for multi-state projects).
Description
This grant program funds the acquisition of land or conservation easements to support the recovery of species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The goal is to implement high-priority recovery actions by protecting habitats identified as threatened in FWS-approved recovery plans or outlines. Projects must demonstrate long-term management and benefit at least one listed species, with preference for those addressing imminent habitat loss or supporting priority recovery actions. Only state or territorial agencies with current cooperative agreements under ESA Section 6(c) are eligible to apply, but partnerships with counties or conservation organizations as subgrantees are encouraged.
