Best Grants for Land Conservation in Idaho

Conservation organizations working on land and habitat conservation in Idaho and other western states can seek funding to enhance big game seasonal habitat, stopover areas, and migration corridors on federal, private, or Tribal lands. With a mission to protect fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation supports projects prioritized by states or Native Nations that improve connectivity and climate resiliency.

Idaho landowners and agricultural producers working on land and habitat conservation can access funding through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to enhance stewardship on working lands. Support includes annual payments for maintaining and improving conservation practices that boost soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and overall environmental sustainability on farms, ranches, and forested lands.

Idaho land and habitat conservation nonprofits can seek funding for projects that protect wildlife, preserve natural areas, and conserve migratory routes. Grants from Cross Charitable Foundation help organizations in the Northwest U.S., including Idaho, that also work in education, homelessness services, environmental conservation, and animal welfare. Applications are by board invitation only.

Private landowners and American Indian tribes in Idaho can receive technical and financial assistance to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands through conservation easements. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service supports land and habitat conservation by purchasing wetland reserve easements, covering associated restoration and recording costs, and prioritizing projects with strong wildlife habitat benefits.

Nonprofits, government agencies, sportsmen’s groups, and educational institutions working on land and habitat conservation in Idaho can seek funding for habitat stewardship, land conservation, and public access projects. Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation grants, ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000, support conserving big game habitat, migration corridors, and improving public access through easements and agreements.

Private landowners in Idaho seeking to enhance upland game bird or waterfowl habitat can receive cost-share support for habitat restoration and improvement projects. Grants from Idaho Department of Fish & Game help fund practices like nesting cover plantings, wetland creation or restoration, and livestock management, with reimbursements up to US $10,000 per approved project.

Idaho tax-exempt organizations and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game can receive funding for habitat conservation, fish and wildlife management, or conservation education projects in Idaho. Idaho Fish & Wildlife Foundation provides competitive grants up to US $10,000, preferring projects that protect or restore habitats and may include a one-to-one funding match.

Idaho land and habitat conservation organizations can access funding through The Oak Hill Fund to restore diminished native tree species via research, seed orchard development, or forest land preservation projects. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations across the continental U.S., with a preference for project-specific requests that may include necessary overhead for the proposed work.

Qualified youth corps and similar organizations supporting land and habitat conservation projects in Idaho can apply for US $30,000 - US $220,000 to engage youth and veterans in natural and cultural resource work. US Department of the Interior: Bureau of Land Management supports trail work, habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, cultural resource preservation, and related stewardship activities.

Land and habitat conservation organizations in Idaho can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 to expand regenerative agriculture and conservation practices on private lands. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program funds technical assistance that helps landowners plan, implement best practices, engage in Farm Bill programs, and improve soil, water, and wildlife habitat outcomes.

The Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund: Recovery Land Acquisition Grant Program, initiated in FY 2001, aims to foster collaboration between State and Federal entities in conserving listed species. This program provides funding for acquiring critical land parcels to support U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-approved recovery plans. By securing habitats at risk from development, the initiative directly addresses the primary threat to endangered species, ensuring effective and immediate conservation actions.

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.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations across the U.S., including Idaho, can apply for Bell's Brewery grassroots grants of US $500 - US $5,000 to support water stewardship projects. Focused on ecosystem and freshwater health, it can aid land and habitat conservation efforts that strengthen biodiversity, protect frontline communities, and build climate-related water resilience.

Idaho land and habitat conservation nonprofits can access funding through Erich & Hannah Sachs Foundation for self-sustaining economic development, housing, education, health, and community-strengthening initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may request program-related investments or grants supporting rural land and open space preservation alongside services for economically or educationally disadvantaged communities in the U.S., Central and South America, and Africa.

Nonprofits, university researchers, and conservation-focused individuals working on land and habitat conservation projects in Idaho and beyond can apply for SITKA Ecosystem Grants, typically ranging from US $3,000 - US $20,000. Focus areas include habitat restoration, biodiversity, outdoor recreation access, hunting education, and collaborative stewardship that measurably improve ecosystem health.

Eligible partners working on land and habitat conservation near military installations in Idaho and other U.S. locations can apply for the 2026 REPI Challenge, with awards up to Up to US $20,000,000 for projects. Funding from the U.S. Department of Defense supports compatible land use, environmental protection, and installation resilience around key defense missions.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on land and habitat conservation, ecosystem restoration, or restorative economies in Idaho may be eligible for grants from Biophilia Foundation, which focuses on U.S. projects. Awards range from US $5,000 - US $25,000, with particular interest in initiatives that advance private land conservation and nature-based solutions.

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 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Coastal Program offers vital technical and financial support for projects aimed at protecting and restoring fish and wildlife habitats in priority coastal ecosystems. Collaborating with conservation partners, the program ensures that all projects are scientifically sound and align with the missions of the Department of the Interior. Applicants must contact a local office for guidance before applying, ensuring projects meet strategic conservation goals.

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.

Graduate students focused on land and habitat conservation in Idaho can gain paid practicum experience through the Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, earning up to US $6,870. With a mission to build collaborative conservation leadership, National Forest Foundation provides hands-on projects, mentorship, and training related to public lands, natural resources, and community engagement on National Forests and Grasslands.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations working on land and habitat conservation, wildlife protection, or related advocacy can apply for Park Foundation’s animal welfare grants. Funding supports nationally significant policy, organizing, education, legal advocacy, Indigenous wildlife management, sanctuaries, and efforts to protect pollinators, wolves, whales, birds, and their habitats, which may benefit Idaho land conservation initiatives.

The FY 2024 - 2026 Broad Agency Announcement by NOAA seeks innovative research and outreach projects that enhance marine and coastal ecosystem viability. This funding opportunity is contingent on appropriations and does not guarantee specific awards or project funding. NOAA emphasizes collaboration with federal, state, and local partners to remain adaptive in addressing climate change and providing vital weather and water services, ensuring ongoing improvement in their information and services.

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.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

The Jandy Ammons Foundation, established in 2012, is committed to enhancing local communities through innovative, project-driven initiatives. Focused on 'shovel ready' projects, it supports wildlife conservation, educational efforts, artistic installations, and Christian mission endeavors. By providing resources to IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charities, the foundation aims to inspire community engagement and sustainable growth. The foundation reflects the collaborative spirit of its founders, Andy and Jan Ammons, who believe in hard work, integrity, and maximizing available resources.