Best Grants for Land Conservation in Maryland

Nonprofit and community organizations protecting natural and cultural resources in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic can seek grants up to US $7,500 for preservation planning and education projects. The National Trust for Historic Preservation supports initiatives that foster dialogue, shape policies, and build public awareness around land conservation, open space, and historic preservation, including innovative outreach to new audiences.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, and Tribes in Maryland can receive financial and technical assistance to implement conservation practices that improve soil, water, air, and wildlife habitat. Focused on land and habitat conservation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service invites eligible land stewards to co-invest in projects that reduce pollution, erosion, and energy use while enhancing working lands.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits planning land or habitat conservation or restoration projects, especially in Greater Baltimore, can apply for France-Merrick Foundation grants over More than US $50,000 for one-time, project-based support. Funding emphasizes capital improvements and capacity-building that strengthen long-term environmental impact and organizational sustainability.

Local government or public agencies in Maryland seeking to acquire land or develop and renovate outdoor recreation amenities can apply for grants from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, with awards ranging from US $50,000 - US $3,000,000. These reimbursement-based projects must permanently dedicate parkland to recreation and be completed within three years, with possible extension.

Maryland land trusts seeking support for land and habitat conservation projects can apply for the Janice Hollmann Grant, with awards up to US $10,000 and a required 100% match. Funding from Maryland Environmental Trust can build organizational capacity, strengthen stewardship of easements, and advance strategic conservation partnerships across the state.

Land trusts and community-based organizations in Maryland can seek funding to build capacity and strengthen long-term stewardship of protected lands, with awards up to US $10,000. Grants from Maryland Environmental Trust support land and habitat conservation through education, outreach, planting, and other stewardship activities that engage residents in local environmental problem-solving.

Land and habitat conservation organizations in Maryland working on on-the-ground restoration and stewardship projects can seek US $75,000 - US $500,000 to enhance fish and wildlife habitats through the Chesapeake WILD Implementation Grants. Grants from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation support projects that improve habitat connectivity, water quality, climate resilience, and public access within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Maryland land and habitat conservation nonprofits focused on forestry and botanical conservation can access funding through The Oak Hill Fund to restore diminished native tree species. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations across the continental U.S. may seek project-specific support for scientific research, seed orchard development, and forest land preservation tied to species restoration, including necessary project overhead.

Grants from Chesapeake Bay Trust help Maryland land and habitat conservation organizations recognize outstanding leadership within the state’s land trust community, with awards up to Up to US $5,000. Maryland land trusts can nominate an individual, and funding is provided to the land trust on behalf of that person’s conservation work.

Land and habitat conservation organizations in Maryland seeking capital for land acquisition or conservation easements can apply for the Appalachian Landscapes Project Capital Grant, which supports projects in the Appalachian region. Open Space Institute funds efforts that protect biodiversity, enhance climate resilience and connectivity, retain forest carbon, and benefit local communities.

Land and habitat conservation organizations in Maryland seeking capital for biodiversity protection, forest carbon retention, and resilient, connected landscapes can apply for the Appalachian Landscapes Project Capital Grant, with awards up to US $4,600,000. Grants from Open Space Institute help eligible projects within the Appalachian Landscapes Project service area deliver strong benefits for local communities.

Organizations planning land and habitat conservation or wildlife connectivity projects in Maryland can apply for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation planning and technical assistance grants, with awards up to US $75,000. Funding supports community-based assessment, planning, design, and other technical work that advances Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) priorities for at-risk and listed species.

Private and tribal landowners in Maryland seeking to protect and restore degraded wetlands can receive easement and restoration funding through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program’s Wetland Reserve Easements. Focused on land and habitat conservation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Maryland offers permanent, term, and 30-year options with technical and financial assistance for eligible wetland acreage.

Local governments and private land trusts in Maryland seeking to protect large, contiguous tracts of land and habitats can apply for land conservation funding that acquires easements and fee simple estates. Grants from Maryland Department of Natural Resources support designated Rural Legacy Areas through an annual competitive application process managed by state review boards.

Land and habitat conservation groups and researchers in Maryland can seek funding for ecosystem restoration, biodiversity, and stewardship projects, including trail work and outdoor access initiatives. Focused on environmental conservation, W.L. Gore invites U.S. and Canadian nonprofits, university teams, and qualified individuals to apply for SITKA Ecosystem Grants, awarding US $3,000 - US $20,000 for direct project costs.

Maryland 501(c)(3) charitable organizations working on land and habitat conservation or related community development can access funding through the Erich & Hannah Sachs Foundation to strengthen self-sustaining programs. Support includes program-related investments and grants for economic development, housing, education, health, and open space preservation in disadvantaged communities in the U.S. and select regions abroad.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations across Maryland and the U.S. can apply for Bell's Brewery grassroots grants of US $500 - US $5,000 to support water stewardship projects. Focused on ecosystem health, water resource management, and climate-related water risks, land and habitat conservation groups may be eligible if their work advances freshwater and watershed protection.

Community Action Fund

A grant for Indigenous frontline organizations, groups, and individuals for direct action initiatives.

The Community Action Fund (CAF) grants support non-violent direct actions and organizing efforts that are often urgent and time sensitive. CAF prioritizes frontline, grassroots and community-based efforts that defend Indigenous peoples rights, communities and Nations.

Community Action Fund Intent

This grant supports Indigenous frontline, grassroots, community-based groups and organizations, Tribes, communities and villages, and individuals leading non-violent direct action or movement-building work in their effort to DEFEND Indigenous People’s rights, and protect their land, air, water, and natural resources.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

Eligible partners working on land and habitat conservation near military installations in Maryland can apply for the Department of Defense’s REPI Challenge, with awards up to Up to US $20,000,000 for projects. Funding supports preventing land use conflicts, alleviating environmental restrictions, and enhancing military installation resilience across the U.S. and its territories.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on land and habitat conservation, ecosystem restoration, or restorative economies in Maryland and across the U.S. may be eligible for grants from Biophilia Foundation. Awards range from US $5,000 - US $25,000 and can support private land conservation, low-tech watershed restoration, and related conservation policy efforts.

Graduate students in fields like natural resources, forestry, law, or communications can receive paid practicum fellowships to support collaborative conservation and public lands projects, including land and habitat conservation, across the U.S. With a mission to build next-generation conservation leaders, National Forest Foundation provides Maryland land conservation students with mentored, hands-on experience, training, and networking.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Steven C. Leuthold Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) non-profits in areas such as land conservation, environmental protection, human services, and animal welfare. Founded in 1991 by philanthropist Steven C. Leuthold, the foundation prioritizes organizations that align with its giving preferences. Applications are due by June 30, 2025, with grants distributed by December 2025. Note that incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Cattaraugus County Trappers Memorial Scholarship

Created by the Cattaraugus County Trappers Association, this scholarship will be awarded to a graduating high school student who plans to pursue a degree in Natural Resources Conservation, Fish & Wildlife Management, Forest Management or similar area of study at a 2- or 4-year college. Financial need will be considered. Applicants must include list of outdoors sports in which they participate, a statement on importance of the role of sportsmen in conservation and management of fish and wildlife and natural resources, and information on career path in their goal statement.

Delaney Family Foundation 

The Delaney Family Foundation is a private family foundation focused on making grants to support Wildlife and Land Conservation, Education, Healthcare and Community Betterment.

The Delaney Family Foundation was established in 2013. We make both program and operating grants and do not have geographical restrictions.  

Grant Information

Grants are awarded annually. The following criteria will be used in confirming that grant requests match the goals of The Delaney Family Foundation.

• Clarity of Purpose – the request should be clearly defined with a specific description of how goals/tasks will be achieved and how funds will be spent.
• Potential for Success – the organization must demonstrate that they have funding sources, manpower, and community support as well as the time to achieve their goals. Projects must be realistic.
• Leadership – stability in the organization is a requirement, as well as a well-deserved reputation for results.
• Site Visits – While not always possible, site visits by board members prior to gifting, during gifting or following may be considered.

 We may consider multi-year grants.

The Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund supports habitat conservation through land acquisition grants. Established in 1997, this program aims to minimize conflicts between listed species conservation and land use. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides matching grants to state agencies for projects that ensure the long-term protection of habitats. By acquiring land or conservation easements, this initiative facilitates species recovery and helps prevent future listings under the Endangered Species Act, enhancing overall ecosystem health.