Land & Wildlife Conservation Grants

U.S. National Science Foundation

Plasma science is a transdisciplinary field of research where fundamental studies in many disciplines, including plasma physics, plasma chemistry, materials science, and space science, come together to advance knowledge for discovery and technological innovation. The primary goal of the <span style="text-decoration: underline;">EC</span>osystem for<span style="text-decoration: underline;">L</span>eading<span style="text-decoration: underline;">I</span>nnovation in<span style="text-decoration: underline;">P</span>lasma<span style="text-decoration: underline;">S</span>cience and<span style="text-decoration: underline;">E</span>ngineering (ECLIPSE) program is to identify and capitalize on opportunities for bringing fundamental plasma science investigations to bear on problems of societal and technological need within the scope of science and engineering supported by the participating NSF programs. The ECLIPSE meta-program has been created to foster an inclusive community of scientists and engineers, an ecosystem spanning multiple NSF Directorates, in the pursuit of translational research at the interface of fundamental plasma science and technological innovation. The ECLIPSE program builds on the long history of NSF leadership in supporting multi-disciplinary research in plasma science and engineering, and is intended to enhance organizational unity within NSF, and potentially with other funding agencies, in considering proposals and supporting projects that may otherwise struggle to find a natural home within the existing hierarchy of Directorates, Divisions, and programs within the Foundation. Examples of topical areas within the scope of the ECLIPSE program include but are not limited to: <ul type="disc"> <li>Plasma surface interactions, with applications to, e.g., advanced manufacturing, materials processing, and catalysis.</li> <li>Atmospheric pressure plasmas and microplasmas with applications to, e.g., microelectronics, plasma agriculture, environmental remediation, and other clean and decarbonized energy goals enabled by electrification of the chemical industry.</li> <li>Dusty plasmas with applications to, e.g., development of nanomaterials, aerosols, and functionalized surface coatings.</li> <li>Novel sensor development for highly non-equilibrium plasmas with applications to, e.g., cubesat-based geospace measurements and industrial plasma diagnostics.</li> <li>Novel computational modeling for multi-component and/or multi-phase plasma systems with applications to, e.g., space weather prediction and plasma reactor design.</li> <li>Novel studies of plasmons in nano-photonics and nano-optics with applications to, e.g., sub-THz wireless communication and photocatalytic chemical processes.</li> <li>New chemical measurement science for characterizing processes occurring in plasmas and using plasmas as part of measurement systems with applications to, e.g., analysis of environmental contaminants or identification of forensic evidence.</li> <li>Study of fundamental chemical reactions and mechanisms in plasmas with applications to, e.g., novel chemical synthesis.</li> </ul> Proposals submitted for consideration by this program should address societal or technological needs within the scope of science and engineering supported by the National Science Foundation. Proposals addressing technology development primarily supported by other US government funding agencies are not eligible for consideration and may be returned without review. Proposers are strongly encouraged to contact the cognizant Program Officers if they are unsure of the suitability of a project to this program. Proposals submitted for consideration by the ECLIPSE program should satisfy the following criteria: (1) clearly articulate the fundamental scientific and/or engineering challenge in plasma science and engineering that may be relevant to more than one NSF program;<ins cite="mailto:Mangala%20Sharma" datetime="2021-06-04T14:45"></ins> and (2) provide a substantive discussion of how a resolution of the stated scientific and/or engineering challenge will address specific societal and/or technological needs identified as priorities by the research communities, policymakers and/or other stakeholders. Depending on the nature of the proposal, the latter may be described as the Intellectual Merit or the Broader Impact of the proposed activity. The program encourages inclusion of specific efforts to increase the diversity of the ECLIPSE community and to broaden participation of under-represented groups in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as Broader Impacts of proposed work. The program welcomes proposals from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), other Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), and institutions in <a href="https://new.nsf.gov/funding/initiatives/epscor/epscor-criteria-eligibility" target="_blank">EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions</a>, along with collaborations between these institutions. Proposers are also encouraged to address how the proposed efforts may enhance workforce development towards STEM careers associated with the field of plasma science and engineering. The ECLIPSE program is not intended to replace existing programs. A proposal that is requesting consideration within the context of ECLIPSE should begin the title with the identifying acronym "ECLIPSE:" and should be submitted to one of the "Related Programs" listed below. In choosing the most relevant program, proposers are advised to read program descriptions and solicitations carefully and to consult with cognizant Program Officers in advance of proposal preparation. Proposal submissions outside of the scientific scope of the receiving program may be transferred to a different program or may be returned without review. Proposers should ask for consideration and review as an ECLIPSE proposal only if the proposal addresses both of the criteria listed above. Proposals marked for consideration by the ECLIPSE program that do not address both of these criteria may be returned without review or reviewed within the context of an individual program. Supplement requests to existing awards within a program that address both of the above criteria may also be considered. Information Sharing with other Funding Agencies When permitted under an MOU between NSF and another funding agency, NSF may share information from proposals for consideration of joint funding and may invite employees of such organizations to attend merit review panels as observers.

Fish and Wildlife Service

Tribal Wildlife Grants provide technical and financial assistance to federally recognized Tribes for the development and implementation of programs that benefit fish and wildlife and their habitats. Funding may be used for conserving any plant or animal species of interest to a Tribe, including those of Native American cultural or traditional importance. The grants are an adaptable resource supporting tribal conservation priorities. Species targeted in a project are not restricted to those that are hunted, fished, or gathered, listed as threatened or endangered, or identified in a conservation plan.Activities may include but are not limited to:planning for wildlife and habitat conservationfish and wildlife conservation and management actionsfish- and wildlife-related laboratory and field researchnatural history studieshabitat mappingfield surveys and species population monitoringhabitat protection and enhancementconservation educationFunding may be used for salaries, equipment, consultant services, subawards, materials, and travel costs.For more information, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service"s Tribal Wildlife Grants Home Page (https://www.fws.gov/service/tribal-wildlife-grants).

Bureau of Land Management

The goal is to find, study, protect, and manage archaeological resources in Lincoln County, Nevada. All work should follow U.S. Department of the Interior priorities and support Eastern Nevada"s conservation and development goals.Project ObjectivesEach project should meet one or more of these objectives:Protect archaeological sites where they are found.Care for archaeological collections and records.Use and share research results in clear ways.Increase public outreach and involvement in archeology.Balance current land use with future needs by:Protecting archaeological resources for the future.Restoring damaged watersheds to safeguard sites.Support science and culture by managing archaeological resources responsibly.Lincoln County Archeology Initiative projects must follow the rules in the Lincoln County Land Act, which uses the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (Public Law 96-95) definition of archaeological resources. This means that only proposals about things at least 100 years old can get funding. Anything newer than that will not be funded.

Geological Survey

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Fort Collins Science Center is offering a cooperative-agreement funding opportunity to a CESU partner having capability to conduct research and studies related to the long-term demography of bumble bees, with a focus on imperiled species. The research will focus on Bombus affinis (rusty patched bumble bee), the previously-widespread bumble bee species whose populations have declined precipitously over the past two decades. This project will leverage collaborations to incorporate expertise in bumble bee ecology into a large existing project supporting the recovery of endangered and imperiled bumble bees. Current research interests include (1) the establishment and maintenance of site surveys to document long-term trends of rusty patched bumble bee, (2) studies that explore novel technologies for the monitoring of bumble bees, (3) studies that assess the types of sampling effort needed to achieve statistically viable assessments of bumble bee population trends, and (4) efforts to facilitate the compilation of data on bumble bee demography. The outcome of a successful agreement will be research products that help DOI and other land-management partners better understand and implement recovery strategies for imperiled bumble bees. Through this CESU agreement, the federal and state university partners will cooperate fully in development of a research program that will produce final products to be used in support of management decisions pertaining to bumble bees. The cooperation of the USGS and its CESU partner brings a combination of expertise to address this objective that is greater than that possessed by either partner on its own. Bumble bees are important wildlife throughout the world and provide considerable economic benefit to cropping systems that require insect (and particularly buzz) pollination. Several previously-common bumble bee species in North America have declined markedly over the past two decades, prompting the listing of RPBB on the Endangered Species Act and petitions to list several other bumble bees as endangered. Many knowledge gaps have been identified that hamper the conservation of these species. A major knowledge gap is the long-term trends in these bumble bee species' populations. Determination of long-term trends in bumble bees (or any wildlife populations) requires considerable commitment as well as the development of sustainable and cost-effective monitoring methods. Rapid methods have been recently developed to determine annual bumble bee occupancy rate of sites. This project will guide work to implement those protocols to establish long-term trends in bumble bee presence, help develop methods to determine bumble bee abundance, and explore new technologies for detecting the abundance and presence of bumble bees at local sites in the Upper Midwest. Pollinator conservation is among the top priorities for many land managers, and additional information is required to support management decisions and work toward the recovery of endangered pollinators. This project aligns strongly with EO 14192 - Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation and SO 3421 - Achieving Prosperity through Deregulation as research to demonstrate pollinator recovery is necessary to avoid unnecessary regulatory actions in accordance with EO 14192 and SO 3421. This project funds population monitoring of federally listed rusty patched bumble bee to track progress toward recovery and inform future delisting decisions. The population estimates that are being created via this project and agreement will be used as evidence by states and private stakeholders that will allow them to avoid regulation tied to the abundance of rusty patched bumble bee nests. Furthermore, this project includes working with the Army Corps of Engineers to create automated monitoring systems that will drastically reduce the costs from DOW facilities needed to monitor bumble bees.

Natural Resources Conservation Service

<p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>Federal Awarding Agency Name: </strong>U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC)</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>Funding Opportunity Title: </strong>Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Funding Opportunity Number: </strong>USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-AFA-26-NOFO0001451</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Assistance Listing: </strong>10.932, Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP)</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Due Date</strong>: NRCS must receive proposals by 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 24, 2026.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Note: </strong>The RCPP AFA and Classic FY 2026 notices of funding opportunity (NOFO) will run</p> <p>concurrently. For information on Classic proposals please see USDA-NRCS-NHQ- RCPP-Classic-26-NOFO0001450.</p> <p><br></p> <p>The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand our ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. Through the RCPP, NRCS seeks to co-invest with partners to implement projects that provide solutions to conservation challenges thereby measurably improving the resource concerns they seek to address. RCPP promotes collaboration with partners, stakeholders, and various communities, which is paramount to achieving equity in NRCS programs and services.</p> <p>Partners use this notice to propose projects that improve natural resources in one or more states or focus on priority concerns in NRCS-designated <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/critical-conservation-areas" target="_blank">Critical Conservation Areas</a>&nbsp;(CCAs). NRCS works with these partners to plan and carry out projects on farms, ranches and private forest land. Through the program, NRCS can provide funding to support both partners and producers. Proposals are selected through a competitive process based on their impact, the partner’s contributions, and how well the partnership is managed.</p> <p><br></p> <p>Up to $310 million is available for RCPP projects through this announcement and the FY 2026 Classic announcement using the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) funding <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text" target="_blank">Working Families Tax Cut Act, Public Law 119-21</a>.<span style="color: rgb(209, 52, 56);"> </span>Proposals are accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), and U.S. territories in the Pacific Island Areas (Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).</p> <p>Up to $30 million of the total available funding is being made available specifically for NRCS to enter into programmatic partnership agreements with Indian tribes. This set aside will be shared by this announcement and the FY 2026 Classic announcement.&nbsp;</p> <p>RCPP AFAs are intended to reimburse projects led by partners that clearly demonstrate their capacity, resources, and ability to provide technical and financial assistance to benefit conservation implementation. The expectation is that AFA Partners will be ready to implement the project quickly.</p> <p><br></p> <p>The 2018 Farm Bill provides the following examples of project types that might be implemented through RCPP AFA:</p> <p><br></p> <p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;projects that use innovative approaches to leverage the Federal investment in conservation.</p> <p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;projects that deploy a pay-for-performance conservation approach.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> Pay for performance is a partner negotiated method used to pay for quantifiable benefits of implemented conservation activities in lieu of reimbursement for practice installation and management activities at NRCS payment rates.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;projects that seek large-scale infrastructure investments that generate conservation benefits for agricultural producers and nonindustrial private forest owners.</p> <p>NRCS can make up to 15 AFA awards through this funding opportunity through Farm Bill funding.</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>Submissions: </strong>Proposals must be submitted through the <a href="https://nrcs.my.salesforce-sites.com/" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">RCPP portal</a><a href="https://nrcs.my.salesforce-sites.com/" target="_blank" style="color: windowtext;">.</a> See <a href="https://usdagcc-my.sharepoint.com/personal/tessa_garcia_usda_gov/Documents/GAAD/NOFO/NOFO0001451_RCPP%20AFA/USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-AFA-NOFO00001451.docx#3._Submission_Information" target="_blank">section E</a> of this announcement for information on using the RCPP portal to submit proposals. Access to the RCPP portal requires a level 2 eAuthentication credential or a Login.gov credential.</p> <p>Obtaining a new Login.gov credential involves multiple steps and can take several days to complete. Instructions are posted on the <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank">How to Apply to RCPP</a> web page listed below.</p> <p><br></p> <p><strong>For More Information</strong>: Applicants must contact the appropriate state conservationists and state RCPP Coordinators prior to submitting a proposal. NRCS will use a state conservationist questionnaire to&nbsp;guide the conversations in alignment with program requirements and state level agency needs.</p> <p><span style="color: black;">Proposals submitted without the benefit of the lead partner meeting with the state conservationist to discuss how their project can meet agency needs and program requirements through a completed questionnaire risk receiving reduced ranking scores.&nbsp;Without having this meeting potential partners will not be able to answer one or more of the questions within program rules and NRCS needs.</span></p> <p><br></p> <p>A list of state RCPP coordinators (as of the date of this announcement’s posting) is on the <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">How to Apply to RCPP</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span>web page.</p> <p><br></p> <p>Applicants can also email the RCPP inbox (<span style="color: blue;">rcpp@usda.gov</span>) with any questions about the announcement. The <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">RCPP website</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span>is also a great source of current information about the program.</p> <p><br></p> <p>Interested applicants are encouraged to participate in one or more of the webinars below to learn about the program and how to apply.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>2026 RCPP NOFO Applicant Resources</strong></p> <p><br></p> <p><span style="color: black;">This webinar will provide general information for applicants submitting proposals for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).&nbsp;Please refer to the RCPP website for more information. </span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">Regional Conservation Partnership Program | Natural </a><span style="color: blue;">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov)</a></p> <p><span style="color: black;">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>Ÿ&nbsp;<strong>RCPP NOFO Applicant Webinar – June 30, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM</strong></p> <p><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697</a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Ÿ&nbsp;<strong>RCPP NOFO Applicant Easement Webinar – July 9, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM</strong></p> <p><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697</a></p> <p><br></p> <p><span style="color: black;">Information on all webinars will be posted to the </span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">How to Apply to RCPP</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank">page</a><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: black;">.</a></p>

Natural Resources Conservation Service

<p><strong>Federal Awarding Agency Name: </strong>U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC)</p> <p><strong>Funding Opportunity Title: </strong>Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026.</p> <p><strong>Funding Opportunity Number: </strong>USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-Classic-26-NOFO0001450</p> <p><strong>Assistance Listing: </strong>10.932, Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP)</p> <p><strong>Due Date</strong>: NRCS must receive proposals by 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 24, 2026.</p> <p><strong>Note: </strong>The RCPP Classic and Alternative Funding Arrangement (AFA) FY 2026 notices of</p> <p>funding opportunity (NOFO) will run concurrently. For information on AFA proposals please see Funding Opportunity Number USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-AFA-26-NOFO0001451.</p> <p>The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand our ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. Through the RCPP, NRCS seeks to co-invest with partners to implement projects that provide solutions to conservation challenges thereby measurably improving the resource concerns they seek to address. RCPP promotes collaboration with partners, stakeholders, and various communities, which is paramount to achieving equity in NRCS programs and services.</p> <p>Partners use this notice to propose projects that improve natural resources in one or more states or focus on priority concerns in NRCS-designated <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/critical-conservation-areas" target="_blank">Critical Conservation Areas</a> (CCAs). NRCS works with these partners to plan and carry out projects on farms, ranches and private forest land. Through the program, NRCS can provide funding to support both partners and producers. Proposals are selected through a competitive process based on their impact, the partner’s contributions, and how well the partnership is managed.</p> <p>Up to $310 million is available for RCPP projects through this announcement and the FY 2026 AFA announcement using the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text" target="_blank">Working Families Tax Cut Act, Public Law 119-21</a> funding. Proposals are accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), and U.S. territories in the Pacific Island Areas (Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).</p> <p>Up to $30 million of the total available funding is being made available specifically for</p> <p>NRCS to enter into programmatic partnership agreements with Indian tribes. This set aside will be shared by this announcement and the FY 2026 AFA.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Submissions: </strong>Proposals must be submitted through the <a href="https://nrcs.my.salesforce-sites.com/" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">RCPP portal</a><a href="https://nrcs.my.salesforce-sites.com/" target="_blank" style="color: windowtext;">.</a> See <a href="https://usdagcc-my.sharepoint.com/personal/tessa_garcia_usda_gov/Documents/GAAD/NOFO/NOFO0001450_RCPP%20CLASSIC/USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-Classic-26-NOFO0001450.docx#_3._Submission_Information" target="_blank" style="color: windowtext;">section E</a> of this announcement for information on using the RCPP portal to submit proposals. Access to the RCPP portal requires a level 2 eAuthentication credential or a Login.gov credential.</p> <p>Obtaining a new Login.gov credential involves multiple steps and can take several days to complete. Instructions are posted on the <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank">How to Apply to RCPP</a>&nbsp;web page listed below.</p> <p><strong>For More Information</strong>: Applicants must&nbsp;contact the appropriate State Conservationists and state RCPP coordinators prior to submitting a proposal. NRCS will use a State Conservationist questionnaire to guide the conversations in alignment with program requirements and state level agency needs. Proposals submitted without the benefit of the lead partner meeting with the State Conservationist to discuss how their project can meet agency needs and program requirements through a completed questionnaire risk receiving reduced ranking scores. Without having this meeting, potential partners will not be able to answer one or more of the questions within program rules and NRCS needs.</p> <p>A list of state RCPP coordinators (as of the date of this announcement’s posting) is on the <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">How to Apply to RCPP</a> page.</p> <p>Applicants can also email the RCPP inbox (<span style="color: blue;">rcpp@usda.gov</span>) with any questions about the announcement. The <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">RCPP website</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span>is also a great source of current information about the program.</p> <p>Interested applicants are encouraged to participate in one or more of the webinars below to learn about the program and how to apply.</p> <p>2026 RCPP NOFO Applicant Resources <span class="ql-size-small">This webinar will provide general information for applicants submitting proposals for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).&nbsp;Please refer to the RCPP website for more information</span>. <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">Regional Conservation Partnership Program | Natural </a> <span style="color: blue;">&nbsp;</span> <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov)</a></p> <p>Ÿ&nbsp;<strong>RCPP NOFO Applicant Webinar – June 30, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM</strong></p> <p><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697</a></p> <p>Ÿ&nbsp;<strong>RCPP NOFO Applicant Easement Webinar – July 9, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM</strong></p> <p><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697</a></p> <p><span style="color: black;">Information on all webinars will be posted to the </span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">How to Apply to RCPP </a><span style="color: blue;">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: windowtext;">page</a><a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/rcpp-regional-conservation-partnership-program/how-to-apply" target="_blank" style="color: black;">.</a></p>

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Federal Awarding Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Funding Opportunity Title: Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Classic for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026. Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-Classic-26-NOFO0001450 Assistance Listing: 10.932, Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Due Date: NRCS must receive proposals by 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 24, 2026. Note: The RCPP Classic and Alternative Funding Arrangement (AFA) FY 2026 notices of funding opportunity (NOFO) will run concurrently. For information on AFA proposals please see Funding Opportunity Number USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-AFA-26-NOFO0001451. The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand our ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. Through the RCPP, NRCS seeks to co-invest with partners to implement projects that provide solutions to conservation challenges thereby measurably improving the resource concerns they seek to address. RCPP promotes collaboration with partners, stakeholders, and various communities, which is paramount to achieving equity in NRCS programs and services. Partners use this notice to propose projects that improve natural resources in one or more states or focus on priority concerns in NRCS-designated Critical Conservation Areas (CCAs). NRCS works with these partners to plan and carry out projects on farms, ranches and private forest land. Through the program, NRCS can provide funding to support both partners and producers. Proposals are selected through a competitive process based on their impact, the partner s contributions, and how well the partnership is managed. Up to $310 million is available for RCPP projects through this announcement and the FY 2026 AFA announcement using the Working Families Tax Cut Act, Public Law 119-21 funding. Proposals are accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), and U.S. territories in the Pacific Island Areas (Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). Up to $30 million of the total available funding is being made available specifically for NRCS to enter into programmatic partnership agreements with Indian tribes. This set aside will be shared by this announcement and the FY 2026 AFA. Submissions: Proposals must be submitted through the RCPP portal. See section E of this announcement for information on using the RCPP portal to submit proposals. Access to the RCPP portal requires a level 2 eAuthentication credential or a Login.gov credential. Obtaining a new Login.gov credential involves multiple steps and can take several days to complete. Instructions are posted on the How to Apply to RCPP web page listed below. For More Information: Applicants must contact the appropriate State Conservationists and state RCPP coordinators prior to submitting a proposal. NRCS will use a State Conservationist questionnaire to guide the conversations in alignment with program requirements and state level agency needs. Proposals submitted without the benefit of the lead partner meeting with the State Conservationist to discuss how their project can meet agency needs and program requirements through a completed questionnaire risk receiving reduced ranking scores. Without having this meeting, potential partners will not be able to answer one or more of the questions within program rules and NRCS needs. A list of state RCPP coordinators (as of the date of this announcement s posting) is on the How to Apply to RCPP page. Applicants can also email the RCPP inbox (rcpp@usda.gov) with any questions about the announcement. The RCPP website is also a great source of current information about the program. Interested applicants are encouraged to participate in one or more of the webinars below to learn about the program and how to apply. 2026 RCPP NOFO Applicant Resources This webinar will provide general information for applicants submitting proposals for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Please refer to the RCPP website for more information. Regional Conservation Partnership Program Natural Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov) RCPP NOFO Applicant Webinar June 30, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697 RCPP NOFO Applicant Easement Webinar July 9, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697 Information on all webinars will be posted to the How to Apply to RCPP page.

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Federal Awarding Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Funding Opportunity Title: Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-NHQ-RCPP-AFA-26-NOFO0001451 Assistance Listing: 10.932, Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Due Date: NRCS must receive proposals by 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 24, 2026. Note: The RCPP AFA and Classic FY 2026 notices of funding opportunity (NOFO) will run concurrently. For information on Classic proposals please see USDA-NRCS-NHQ- RCPP-Classic-26-NOFO0001450. The RCPP promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand our ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. Through the RCPP, NRCS seeks to co-invest with partners to implement projects that provide solutions to conservation challenges thereby measurably improving the resource concerns they seek to address. RCPP promotes collaboration with partners, stakeholders, and various communities, which is paramount to achieving equity in NRCS programs and services. Partners use this notice to propose projects that improve natural resources in one or more states or focus on priority concerns in NRCS-designated Critical Conservation Areas (CCAs). NRCS works with these partners to plan and carry out projects on farms, ranches and private forest land. Through the program, NRCS can provide funding to support both partners and producers. Proposals are selected through a competitive process based on their impact, the partner s contributions, and how well the partnership is managed. Up to $310 million is available for RCPP projects through this announcement and the FY 2026 Classic announcement using the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) funding Working Families Tax Cut Act, Public Law 119-21. Proposals are accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), and U.S. territories in the Pacific Island Areas (Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). Up to $30 million of the total available funding is being made available specifically for NRCS to enter into programmatic partnership agreements with Indian tribes. This set aside will be shared by this announcement and the FY 2026 Classic announcement. RCPP AFAs are intended to reimburse projects led by partners that clearly demonstrate their capacity, resources, and ability to provide technical and financial assistance to benefit conservation implementation. The expectation is that AFA Partners will be ready to implement the project quickly. The 2018 Farm Bill provides the following examples of project types that might be implemented through RCPP AFA: projects that use innovative approaches to leverage the Federal investment in conservation. projects that deploy a pay-for-performance conservation approach. Note: Pay for performance is a partner negotiated method used to pay for quantifiable benefits of implemented conservation activities in lieu of reimbursement for practice installation and management activities at NRCS payment rates. projects that seek large-scale infrastructure investments that generate conservation benefits for agricultural producers and nonindustrial private forest owners. NRCS can make up to 15 AFA awards through this funding opportunity through Farm Bill funding. Submissions: Proposals must be submitted through the RCPP portal. See section E of this announcement for information on using the RCPP portal to submit proposals. Access to the RCPP portal requires a level 2 eAuthentication credential or a Login.gov credential. Obtaining a new Login.gov credential involves multiple steps and can take several days to complete. Instructions are posted on the How to Apply to RCPP web page listed below. For More Information: Applicants must contact the appropriate state conservationists and state RCPP Coordinators prior to submitting a proposal. NRCS will use a state conservationist questionnaire to guide the conversations in alignment with program requirements and state level agency needs. Proposals submitted without the benefit of the lead partner meeting with the state conservationist to discuss how their project can meet agency needs and program requirements through a completed questionnaire risk receiving reduced ranking scores. Without having this meeting potential partners will not be able to answer one or more of the questions within program rules and NRCS needs. A list of state RCPP coordinators (as of the date of this announcement s posting) is on the How to Apply to RCPP web page. Applicants can also email the RCPP inbox (rcpp@usda.gov) with any questions about the announcement. The RCPP website is also a great source of current information about the program. Interested applicants are encouraged to participate in one or more of the webinars below to learn about the program and how to apply. 2026 RCPP NOFO Applicant Resources This webinar will provide general information for applicants submitting proposals for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Please refer to the RCPP website for more information. Regional Conservation Partnership Program Natural Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov) RCPP NOFO Applicant Webinar June 30, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8329fd1-0409-4b9c-9f37-9e184fc7f84e@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697 RCPP NOFO Applicant Easement Webinar July 9, 2026 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/24547ad1-f99e-4161-a3ee-0bad228230c9@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697 Information on all webinars will be posted to the How to Apply to RCPP page.

Bureau of Land Management

Priority activities under this announcement include projects that support Executive Order (EO) 14225 Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production and Section 50301 of The One Big Beautiful Bill. This program focuses on activities that promote forest and woodland health, sustainable forest management, fire resiliency, biomass utilization for bioenergy, habitat conservation needs, and insect, disease and fire recovery on public lands. These activities could include, but are not limited to: planting trees, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, salvage/sanitation harvest, control of competing vegetation, fuels reduction, project development and layout, planning analysis and document preparation needed in concert with or to carry out NEPA, and Endangered Species Act or cultural clearances.

Bureau of Land Management

Priority activities under this announcement include projects that support Executive Order (EO) 14225 Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production and Section 50301 of The One Big Beautiful Bill. This program focuses on activities that promote forest and woodland health, sustainable forest management, fire resiliency, biomass utilization for bioenergy, habitat conservation needs, and insect, disease and fire recovery on public lands. These activities could include, but are not limited to: planting trees, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, salvage/sanitation harvest, control of competing vegetation, fuels reduction, project development and layout, planning analysis and document preparation needed in concert with or to carry out NEPA, and Endangered Species Act or cultural clearances.

Natural Resources Conservation Service

<p>NRCS is announcing the availability of $3 million in WMBP grant funds for the development and establishment of mitigation banks and banking opportunities solely for agricultural producers with wetlands subject to the wetland conservation compliance provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985 (as amended). WMBP is a competitive grants program accepting proposals from eligible entities as identified in Section B.1. Priority will be given to banks in states with significant numbers of individual wetlands, wetland acres, and conservation compliance requests. Based on NRCS data, these states are Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.</p> <p><br></p> <p>A webinar for WMBP applicants is scheduled for July 30, 2026 at 3 pm Eastern Time. Information on how to participate in the Microsoft Teams webinar can be obtained through the following link:</p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fevents.gcc.teams.microsoft.com%2Fevent%2F4685b4dd-a1ce-4ad6-81e3-d4318799cb11%40ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697&amp;data=05%7C02%7Ctessa.garcia%40usda.gov%7Cfe39385573e14554609908dee8d97814%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639204217875138558%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VNTut5pT2UtsToPpyjmhAGz1FgdrHj3Mh4X%2BfbdX8OI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/4685b4dd-a1ce-4ad6-81e3-d4318799cb11@ed5b36e7-01ee-4ebc-867e-e03cfa0d4697</a></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

Bureau of Land Management

The Bureau of Land Management"s Plant Conservation and Restoration Program (PCRP) is a national leader in building the native seed supply chain essential for restoring resilient public lands and supporting multiple use and sustained yield. PCRP advances Department of the Interior mission to protect and manage America's natural resources. The native seed PCRP adds to the commercial market enables rapid recovery following wildfire, hurricanes, and other natural disasters; can be used by proponents to help satisfy revegetation requirements for energy and infrastructure projects; and helps farmers and creates jobs by expanding market access for small producers.A core mission of PCRP is to grow the national native seed supply chain through partnerships with eligible state, tribal, academic, and non-governmental organizations. Reliable native seed supplies are critical to improving rangeland health, restoring wildlife habitat and migration corridors, reclaiming mined and timber-harvested lands, and reducing invasive species. Expanding this pipeline lowers seed costs, reduces producer risk, creates American jobs, and ensures long-term project success with durable vegetative establishment.In 2026, PCRP is strategically focused on:Local seed collections to diversify species in the marketplace while creating employment opportunities.Support for farmers and nonprofits entering the native seed market to strengthen rural economies and shared stewardship.Nursery production of species unsuitable for direct seeding to support healthy rangelands, forests and watersheds, big game and healthy wildlife habitat,Applied science and innovation to reduce costs, lower risk, and improve restoration outcomes.Manage native plant communities and special status plants to maintain multiple use and sustained yieldPCRP seeks partnerships to:Collaborate with state agriculture departments, NRCS, and others to expand farmer access to the seed market.Work with wildlife agencies and others to implement post-fire recovery, restore migration corridors, and protect priority species.Develop technology and infrastructure for seed collection, cleaning, banking, and production of hard-to-grow species.Advance applied science to sustain special status plant species and prevent regulatory impacts on energy development.Support technology development, technology transfer and education so native seed is used more effectively. Integrate native seed use across BLM programs including Wildlife, Oil & Gas, Minerals, Fuels, Range, and Renewable Energy.Through this NOFO, PCRP invites partners to join in strengthening America"s native seed supply chain—ensuring healthier public lands, stronger rural economies, and cost effective lasting ecological resilience.

Fish and Wildlife Service

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Partners for Fish and Wildlife (PFW) Program helps private landowners restore and protect habitats for fish and wildlife. It offers both technical assistance and financial support, mainly through cooperative agreements.The PFW Program has approximately 220 staff working in all 50 states and territories. They work together with project partners and stakeholders to find key areas for conservation and set habitat goals. These focus areas guide the program on where to direct resources for conserving important habitats for federal trust species. The Program also has strategic plans that help determine which projects receive funding.Since it began in 1987, the PFW Program has successfully assisted many landowners. When choosing projects, the Program aims to support specific priorities set by the Secretary of the Interior and identified in regional strategic habitat conservation plans. All projects will promote the goals of the Program, the Department of the Interior, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These goals focus on using sound biological principles and voluntary partnerships to accomplish the mission of the Service to work with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.Applicants seeking technical or financial assistance from the PFW Program are required to consult with a local Program office BEFORE developing or submitting an application by visiting our website.

Bureau of Land Management

The Headquarters Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offices have collaborated with Qualified Youth Corps, as authorized by the Public Lands Corps Act (PLC), to accomplish natural and cultural resource-focused projects for numerous years. This program"s projects provide opportunities to gain work experience in public lands and natural resources management. Through their BLM experience, youth gain an appreciation for public lands, learn about natural resource management careers, and become the next generation of public lands stewards. The BLM Youth Program helps the agency accomplish projects across all program areas in support of the BLM"s multiple-use mission. The BLM Youth Program partners with qualified youth corps through the Public Lands Corp (PLC) Program to engage individuals between the ages of 16 and 30 (inclusive) and veterans up to age 35 (inclusive), including tribal members. The PLC program mandates employing youth who are interested in working on natural and cultural resource projects that protect public lands.Projects available under the PLC Program are developed in collaboration with the State Youth Program Lead and District/Field Office project coordinators. The projects emphasize hands-on engagement in on-the-ground projects, skill development training, and mentorship opportunities for participants. These projects create jobs that strengthen America"s economy and foster relationships with youth corps organizations striving for balanced stewardship and use of public lands.Proposed projects within this funding opportunity notice will support the goals of the PLC Program and may also incorporate the goals of the Indian Youth Service Corps Program through outreach to Indian tribes and tribal-serving youth corps organizations. Projects will include the following:Enhancement of recreation opportunities through trail building, maintenance and restoration, and other improvements to visitor and recreation facilities (e.g. kiosks, campgrounds, signage etc.).Monitoring riparian area vegetation and hydrological functions, collecting soil and stream data as well as timber stand improvement projects for wildlife habitat and overall forest health.Habitat restoration and wildlife protection, including reduction of invasive species, tree planting, fence removal/installation, riparian area restoration, etc.Development and implementation of natural and cultural resource stewardship plans or educational materials for visitors.Studies such as resource inventories, historic or archival research, archaeological excavation or stabilization, oral histories, historic preservation, habitat surveys, etc.Preservation of cultural resources, including historic structures.Seed collection for restoration of lands affected by natural disastersReduction of wildfire risk to communities, watersheds, and other public land ecosystems.Production of materials and programs on natural, cultural, and/or paleontological resources, communication, education, and interpretation of natural and cultural resources.In-house projects, such as cartography, records management, realty or wildland fire support, must demonstrate a clear benefit to natural or cultural resources and include a field component of at least 120 hours.

Bureau of Land Management

FY26 Bureau of Land Management Youth Conservation Corps - Bureau wide&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fish and Wildlife Service

The Highlands Conservation Act Program (HCA) is administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to assist Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania in the protection of land and natural resources in the Highlands Region. HCA grants support land conservation projects in which a State, County, or Municipal entity acquires land or an interest in land from a willing seller to conserve resources of high conservation value.Governors of the four Highlands States may submit proposals for up to 50% of the total cost of land conservation projects in the Highlands Region.Funding appropriated under the HCA is typically divided into two separate categories – Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants may submit requests for the Competitive Funding Round in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity. A separate Notice of Funding Opportunity will be posted for Base Funds. A project may not be proposed for funding in both funding opportunities.More information on the HCA program is available at www.fws.gov/program/highlands-conservation-act-grant

Fish and Wildlife Service

The Highlands Conservation Act Program (HCA) is administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to assist Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania in the protection of land and natural resources in the Highlands Region. HCA grants support land conservation projects in which a State, County, or Municipal entity acquires land or an interest in land from a willing seller to conserve resources of high conservation value.Governors of the four Highlands States may submit proposals for up to 50% of the total cost of land conservation projects in the Highlands Region.Funding appropriated under the HCA is typically divided into two separate categories – Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants may submit requests for the Base Funding Round in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity. A separate Notice of Funding Opportunity will be posted for Competitive Funds. A project may not be proposed for funding in both funding opportunities.More information on the HCA program is available at www.fws.gov/program/highlands-conservation-act-grant

Fish and Wildlife Service

F25AS00332 Highlands Conservation Act &ndash; Competitive Funding Round

Fish and Wildlife Service

The Highlands Conservation Act Program (HCA) is administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to assist Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania in the protection of land and natural resources in the Highlands Region. HCA grants support land conservation projects in which a State, County, or Municipal entity acquires land or an interest in land from a willing seller to conserve resources of high conservation value.Governors of the four Highlands States may submit proposals for up to 50% of the total cost of land conservation projects in the Highlands Region.Funding appropriated under the HCA is typically divided into two separate categories Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants may submit requests for the Competitive Funding Round in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity. A separate Notice of Funding Opportunity will be posted for Base Funds. A project may not be proposed for funding in both funding opportunities.More information on the HCA program is available at www.fws.gov/program/highlands-conservation-act-grant

Forest Service

Federally recognized Indian Tribes, local government entities, and nonprofit organizations that are qualified to acquire and manage land may apply for up to $1,000,000 for the fee simple acquisition of private forest land in portions of the Lake Superior Basin of Michigan and Wisconsin. Projects submitted for funding consideration must be forested properties at least five acres in size that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses and that provide community benefits including economic, environmental, educational, and recreational benefits. An additional focus of this opportunity is to protect, enhance and increase resilience of habitats necessary for sustaining native aquatic and terrestrial species important to the Lake Superior ecosystem. Competitive proposals will be those that demonstrate exceptional public benefits, meaningful community engagement, and strategic contributions to terrestrial habitat connectivity within the defined Terrestrial Habitat Connectivity Pilot Area.For additional information and requirements, please refer to the Notice of Funding Opportunity document linked in both the "Related Documents" tab and the "Instructions" link located in the "Package" tab.

National Endowment for the Humanities

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Division of Collections & Infrastructure is accepting applications for Collections Stewardship, a program to advance the preservation and availability of physical and digital collections important for research, teaching, and public engagement in the humanities. Planning and implementation projects may include conservation and preservation; digitization and description; enhancement of long-standing digital resources in the humanities; and preservation services or education and training for students and professionals in collections stewardship.

Forests, Parks & Recreation

Trail Maintenance in Vermont State Parks and State Forests

Treasurer's Office

US Forest Service Payments to Schools FY25

Treasurer's Office

US Forest Service Payments to Schools

NFWF

Funds fish, wildlife, and habitat conservation through competitive grants across the US.

National Geographic Society

Funds research, exploration, and conservation projects ranging $10K-$100K.

Wildlife Conservation Society

Supports field-based wildlife conservation and research projects globally.