Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grant applications open through June 12

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Natural Areas Stewardship grants through June 12. The grants support projects that promote the stewardship of Illinois' natural areas.

The goal of the program is to increase stewardship efforts at natural areas protected within the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission system. Stewardship needs at sites across the state continue to exceed the capacity of volunteers, organizations and government agencies. The program's purpose is to fund projects that address immediate needs while assisting conservation land trusts stewardship capacity through additional staff and equipment.

Eligible applicants include conservation land trusts that are 501(c)(3) federally tax-exempt and whose governing documents include land restoration and stewardship for conservation purposes among their stated missions.

Funding for the program comes from a portion of the Illinois Natural Areas Acquisition Fund. Grant recipients must use awarded funds for stewardship of natural areas, including habitats for endangered and threatened species, in accordance with the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act.

Individual proposals are limited to a maximum funding of $100,000 per project. Stewardship activities must be included in current management schedules approved by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.

Eligible expenses may include contractual services, project-related staff time, equipment and materials necessary to complete stewardship work - including tools, safety supplies, herbicide and construction materials - as well as indirect costs. Employee benefits are not eligible expenses.

Matching funds are required for all projects. The minimum match requirement allowed by administrative rule is 5% or $1,000, whichever is less, to help ensure access to the program for land trusts of all sizes.