Conservation Education Grant

The Conservation Education Grant supports educational programs in forestry and natural resources for pre-K to 12th-grade students and their educators. It aims to enhance youth engagement in nature education and improve the capabilities of forestry professionals and volunteers. Applications emphasize outdoor activities and professional development, with awards capped at $3,000, requiring project completion within a year. Though no match is mandatory, a 25% contribution is encouraged to strengthen funding applications.

NOTE: Applications opened on January 15, 2026. First review of applications closes on February 15, 2026, with additional review ongoing until December 31, 2026 or until all funds are awarded.
To receive funding, proposals must contribute to meaningful natural resource education experiences for youth or increase and improve the capacity of natural resource professionals, volunteers, or organizations to deliver quality educational experiences to their clients.
Generally, where applications that have a forestry component will be prioritized
Objectives
Funds will be awarded to proposals that contribute to meaningful outdoor nature education experiences for youth or increase and improve the capacity of forestry professionals, volunteers, and partners to deliver quality educational experiences to their clients.
Examples of appropriate uses of these funds include:

• Outdoor education activities for youth pre-K through 12th grade.
• Facilitator training activities and associated costs.
• Professional development in the field of conservation education.
• Facilitation costs, meeting space, refreshments, and other expenses associated with hosting the aforementioned activities or events.
• Travel to and registration for training or professional development opportunities associated with conservation education.
• Grant Amount and Criteria
• Awards will be capped at $3,000, although the program manager may approve larger amounts on a limited basis.
• Funds must be expended within one calendar year of the date of approval.
• Match

No match required; however, a 25% match (calculated as percentage of total grant funds awarded) is encouraged. Matchsource funds can be non-federal cash or in-kind contributions.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include but are not limited to:Non-profitsCounty or Municipal governmentsTribal governmentsCommunity groupsEducational institutionsEducatorsindividuals