The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation‘s Acres for America is a land conservation program that provides urgent funding for voluntary land acquisitions and perpetual conservation easements. Since it was established in 2005, this program has helped to permanently protect over 2 million acres in the United States.
Up to $4 million will be split between 4 – 8 projects in 2023. Pre-proposals are due by May 3 at 11:59 PM ET. Invitations to submit a full proposal will be issued in late May; full proposals will be due by July 12 at 11:59 PM ET. This grant requires a 1:1 match of cash and in-kind donations.
Eligibility
This grant is open to:
- 501(c) nonprofits
- State and local government entities
- Tribal governments and organizations
- Educational institutions
Matching Requirement
Although a 1:1 match is required, successful projects commonly have a match of 5:1 or greater. However, both Federal and non-Federal funds may used. Eligible matching sources includes:
- Cash
- Contributed goods and services
- Volunteer hours
- Property
Allowable Expenses
Grant funds may only be used to purchase property.
Conservation Criteria
Land acquisitions and conservation easements under this program should address:
- Project Scale and Program Priorities – Protect a significant amount of land and address at least one of the program priorities (see below)
- National or State Conservation Priority – Projects should be endorsed by federal, state, and local government agencies as well non-profit conservation organizations. Make note of whether the project is part of a larger conservation plan.
- Protect Critical Fish and Wildlife Species – Projects should protect endangered species and areas of biodiversity.
- Expand Wildlife Connectivity – Reduce habitat fragmentation
- Expand Public Access to Nature – Increase access for public outdoor recreation
- Benefit Local Economies – Preference will be given to projects that can demonstrate local economic benefits
- Provide a Range of Ecological Services – Ecological services include conserving drinking water sources, protecting stream flow, and carbon sequestration
- Under Threat of Conversion – Is the property in danger of being converted into a different land use?
Projects are also encouraged to engage in Community Impact and Engagement. Ideally, community input should be incorporated into the project design.
Program Priorities
Preferred consideration will be given to projects that address more than one of these priorities.
- Conserve critical habitats for birds, fish, plants, and wildlife
- Connect existing protected lands and protect migration routes
- Provide access for people to enjoy the outdoors
- Secure local economies that depend on forestry, ranching, wildlife, and recreation
