Conservation funds available

The Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee is pleased to announce the opening of a funding for conservation and recreation projects in the 2021-2023 biennium.

The Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund is a new way for Oregonians to support projects that protect and enhance the species and habitats identified in the Oregon Conservation Strategy. Funds of up to $50,000 are available to create new opportunities for wildlife watching, urban conservation, community science, and other wildlife-associated recreation. The OCRF will prioritize projects that implement the Oregon Conservation Strategy, a blueprint for conserving Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats before they become more difficult to protect.

The OCRF will also invest in outdoor recreation opportunities that connect Oregonians to the natural world and increase equity for underserved communities.

In 2019, the Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 2829 establishing the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund (OCRF), along with an associated Advisory Committee to guide expenditures, and directing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to use the fund to carry out activities to protect, maintain or enhance fish and wildlife resources in Oregon.

Online grant applications will be available starting on August 12th and closing on October 7th, with grant applications accepted for approximately 60 days.

The maximum allowable grant request per institution and/or organization will be $50,000.

Any public or private non-profit organization may request funds. Private non-profit organizations must have tax-exempt status under the IRS Code Section 501(c)(3).

For more information, go to: tinyurl.com.y8vjzer5.