Sangamon Sun

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is currently accepting applications for the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grants. The application period will remain open until June 13, 2025.

These grants are available to conservation land trusts that are exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code. The trusts must have documents stating their purpose includes the restoration and stewardship of land for conservation.

The grant program aims to enhance stewardship activities at natural areas within the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC) system. According to IDNR, "Stewardship needs at natural areas throughout the state have continued to outpace the ability to deliver these services by individuals, volunteers, organizations, and government agencies."

This initiative seeks to fund projects that address this gap by increasing the capacity of conservation land trusts through staff and equipment expansion. Funding comes from a portion of the Illinois Natural Areas Acquisition Fund and is designated for stewardship efforts, including habitats for endangered and threatened species.

Projects funded by this program must align with management schedules approved by INPC and can receive up to $100,000 per proposal. Eligible expenses include contractual services, project-related staff time, equipment, materials like tools and safety items, herbicide, construction materials, and indirect costs. However, benefit costs are not covered.

All projects require matching funds. The minimum match requirement is either 5% or $1,000—whichever is less—to ensure broad access for land trusts.

For more information on applying for these grants, interested parties can visit IDNR's website or contact them via email at [email protected].