[Oregon Community Foundation](https://oregoncf.org)

March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected) | March 2027 (Application window close, projected)

Typical awards $500–$2,500; larger awards possible in special cases; annual total grants average ~$17,000.

Supports Oregon high schools in delivering forestry and natural resources education, funding tools, equipment, and technology for hands-on student learning.

--- ## Description The Oregon Natural Resources Education Fund (ONREF), administered by the Oregon Community Foundation, provides annual grants to public and private high schools in Oregon to enhance and sustain forest-based natural resources education. The fund supports programs of study that integrate instruction in wood products, silviculture, harvesting, fisheries, wildlife, water, soils, recreation, and the management of Oregon's forest resources. Funding is intended for tools, equipment, technology, and other educational resources that support hands-on learning and foster career and leadership development among students. Grant recommendations are made by an advisory committee, and several subfunds exist to support specific regions or objectives. --- ## Due Dates - March 2027: Full application deadline (anticipated/projected; annually on March 1) - March 2027: Application window close/submission deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards range from $500 to $2,500. - Larger awards may be considered under special circumstances. - The fund distributes an average of $17,000 annually across Oregon high schools. --- ## Eligibility - Open to public and private high schools in Oregon. - Programs must provide educational opportunities in forestry and related natural resources. - Preference is given to established programs (offering at least 2 high school credits in natural resources), but developing programs with strong community and school support are also eligible. - Programs should integrate instruction in forestry, wood products, silviculture, fisheries, wildlife, water, soils, recreation, and related career/leadership development. - Subfunds are available with specific geographic or programmatic preferences (e.g., Benton County, Lane and Linn counties, statewide with post-secondary focus). --- ## Application Process - Download the [grant application form](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/ONREF-Grant-Application-2026.docx) and [overview brochure](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/PDFs/Grants/2025/ONREF-Brochure-2024-web.pdf). - Review [funding guidelines](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/onref_distribution_guidelines-updated-2019.doc) for eligibility and proposal requirements. - Submit completed applications by email to [grants@oregoncf.org](mailto:grants@oregoncf.org) with the subject line: “ONREF Application – Organization Name”. - Applications must include detailed project descriptions, budgets, and assurances as outlined in the application form. - A final report is required within 30 days after project completion; use the [grantee reporting form](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/grants/ONREF-Grant-Reporting-Form-2025.docx). --- ## Additional Information - Multiple subfunds exist, each with unique objectives and eligibility (see program page for details). - Funded equipment must be used for educational purposes and may be reallocated if the program is discontinued. - Programs are encouraged to involve advisory committees and demonstrate community support. - Preference is given to programs providing outdoor educational opportunities and with qualified instructors. --- ## External Links - [ONREF Program Page (Oregon Community Foundation)](https://oregoncf.org/grants-and-scholarships/grants/oregon-natural-resources-education-fund) - [ONREF Funding Guidelines (DOC)](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/onref_distribution_guidelines-updated-2019.doc) - [ONREF Grant Application Form (DOCX)](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/ONREF-Grant-Application-2026.docx) - [ONREF Overview Brochure (PDF)](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/PDFs/Grants/2025/ONREF-Brochure-2024-web.pdf) - [ONREF Association Website](http://www.onref.org/) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email | Phone | |-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|------------------| | Michael Oreste, Senior Program Officer | [moreste@oregoncf.org](mailto:moreste@oregoncf.org) | 503-944-2100 | | OCF Eugene Office (general inquiries/gifts) | [giftplanning@oregoncf.org](mailto:giftplanning@oregoncf.org) | 541-431-7099 | | General Grants Contact | [grants@oregoncf.org](mailto:grants@oregoncf.org) | | | Pete Sikora, ONREF Board (reporting) | [petes@pcsnxw.com](mailto:petes@pcsnxw.com) | |

Oregon Natural Resources Education Fund

Sign in to see full grant listing