Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is currently inviting applications for the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grants, with submissions accepted until June 13, 2025. These grants are specifically aimed at conservation land trusts that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code. The organizations must also have a primary focus on land restoration and stewardship for conservation purposes.

The grant program aims to enhance stewardship activities within natural areas protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC) system. There is a recognized need for increased stewardship services, which has surpassed what individuals, volunteers, organizations, and government agencies can provide.

This initiative seeks to address this gap by funding projects that will expand the capabilities of conservation land trusts. Grants will support staff expansion and procurement of necessary equipment to carry out stewardship activities effectively.

Funding originates from a segment of the Illinois Natural Areas Acquisition Fund and is earmarked for natural area stewardship, including habitats of endangered and threatened species. All funded actions must be part of management schedules approved by the INPC, with proposals capped at $100,000 each. Eligible expenses include contractual services, project-related staff time, equipment, tools, safety items, herbicide, construction materials, and indirect costs. However, benefit costs are not covered.

A matching fund requirement applies to all projects. The minimum match is set at either 5% or $1,000—whichever is lower—to ensure broad access for land trusts to participate in the program.

For more information or assistance with applications, interested parties can visit IDNR's online portal or contact Susan Duke via email at Susan.Duke@Illinois.gov.

More details about IDNR programs and other State of Illinois grant opportunities are available online.