Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund
Forecasted
Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund supports those conserving and restoring the basin’s lands and waterways through habitat, water quality, and recreation projects to benefit wildlife and communities.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Request for Proposals deadline)
Funding Amounts: Historical funding: $85.5 million awarded to 270 projects since 2018
Summary: Supports conservation and restoration in the Delaware River watershed to improve habitat, water quality, water management, and outdoor recreation.
Key Information: Projects must be implemented entirely within the Delaware River watershed.
Description
The Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF) is the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s competitive grant opportunity under its Delaware River Program. Launched in 2018, it conserves and restores natural areas, corridors, and waterways on public and private lands to support native fish, wildlife, and plants while contributing to community vitality. Major funding comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with additional support from AstraZeneca and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The fund prioritizes on-the-ground habitat conservation and restoration, water quality improvements, water management that benefits wildlife, and ecologically compatible public recreation. Its broader activities include public engagement, strategic planning, technical assistance, and scientific capacity for coordinated planning, monitoring, and research. Investments target areas of regional significance and seek measurable conservation gains across the basin.
