Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund
Forecasted
Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund supports conservation groups’ habitat restoration, water quality improvements, and recreation projects to benefit wildlife and communities in the Delaware River watershed.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Request for Proposals deadline)
Funding Amounts: $12.5 million awarded across 30 grants in the 2025 round
Summary: Supports habitat conservation, water quality improvements, water management, and public recreation access within the Delaware River watershed.
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 funding opportunity under its Delaware River Program. Launched in 2018, it supports conservation and restoration of natural areas, corridors, and waterways on public and private lands. The fund benefits native migratory and resident wildlife, fish, and plants while contributing to the quality of life and economic vitality of watershed communities. Major funding comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with additional support from AstraZeneca and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Priorities include habitat restoration, clean water, water management that benefits wildlife, and recreational access consistent with ecological needs. The fund also supports coordinated planning, scientific capacity, monitoring and research, technical assistance, and public engagement to improve conservation outcomes at a basin-wide scale.
