Best Grants for Land Conservation in Wisconsin

Wisconsin communities and public entities seeking to conserve land and expand outdoor recreation in Wisconsin can access funding through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. These programs support acquisition and development of local parks, protection of development rights, urban green space and river projects, plus federal recreation initiatives like trails and land and water conservation.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on land and habitat conservation in Wisconsin can seek funding for environmental protection projects, including wildlife and natural area preservation. The Patrick and Anna M Cudahy Fund also supports related community needs, so conservation groups integrating education or social services may be eligible within its metropolitan Chicago and statewide Wisconsin focus.

Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, sportsmen’s groups, and educational institutions in Wisconsin can seek funding for land and habitat conservation projects, including public access improvements. Grants from Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation help conserve big game habitat, protect migration corridors, and create or enhance public access, with awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000.

Wisconsin land conservation and agricultural organizations partnering with producers can seek funding to implement conservation activities that restore soil, water, wildlife habitat, and related natural resources. Wisconsin land and habitat conservation groups can access funding through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wisconsin’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program for projects on agricultural and eligible forest or associated lands statewide.

Wisconsin land trusts, tribal entities, and other conservation-focused organizations can receive support to secure agricultural and wetland conservation easements that limit nonagricultural uses and restore habitat. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wisconsin offers Agricultural Land Easements, Wetland Reserve Easements, and Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership agreements to protect working farms, ranches, and critical ecosystems.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations restoring diminished native tree species through research, seed orchards, or forest land preservation can apply for project-specific support, including overhead costs. The Oak Hill Fund provides continental grants that may benefit Wisconsin land and habitat conservation efforts focused on long-term forest ecosystem health and biodiversity.

Wisconsin counties with lands in the County Forest Program can seek funding to acquire additional forest lands that qualify for county forest entry and long-term conservation. Grants from Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources help expand public forest holdings in Wisconsin, supporting land and habitat conservation through fee simple acquisition that meets statutory requirements.

Private woodland owners in Wisconsin can access funding for land and habitat conservation through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Forest Landowner Grant Program. This cost-share program reimburses up to 50% of expenses for tree planting, invasive species control, forest stewardship planning, forest improvement, and related soil, water, and wildlife habitat protection projects.

Nonprofit or public entities seeking to permanently protect lake- and river-associated land in Wisconsin can receive up to US $200,000 for land acquisition or conservation easements. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources grants may cover 75% of eligible project costs to safeguard freshwater ecosystems and support long-term land and habitat conservation.

James E. Dutton Foundation provides Wisconsin land and habitat conservation groups with funding for wildlife protection, environmental preservation, and outdoor education projects. Eligible organizations working on land conservation, habitat restoration, or environmental stewardship may be supported, with priority historically given to Wisconsin and the broader Midwest region.

Local governments, tribes, and school districts in Wisconsin can seek funding for outdoor recreation land and water projects through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. With a mission to expand outdoor recreation, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides land and habitat conservation groups with support for parks, trails, and related facilities.

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative offers up to $1,000,000 for the acquisition of private forest land in the Lake Superior Basin. Eligible applicants include federally recognized tribes, local governments, and nonprofits. Projects must focus on forested properties over five acres, addressing threats of conversion to non-forest uses while enhancing community benefits. Proposals demonstrating significant public benefits and community engagement will be prioritized, especially those contributing to habitat connectivity and resilience for local ecosystems.

Wisconsin agricultural producers, forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities can access funding through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program to implement conservation practices on working lands. Administered by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wisconsin, EQIP offers technical and financial assistance to improve soil health, water and air quality, wildlife habitat, and overall land and habitat conservation.

Nonprofit or conservation-focused organizations providing technical assistance to private landowners for regenerative agriculture and land conservation in Wisconsin can access funding via the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The Conservation Partners Grant Program offers US $250,000 - US $750,000 to support management planning, best practice implementation, Farm Bill participation, and sharing conservation lessons learned.

Wisconsin agricultural and forest land operators seeking to enhance land and habitat conservation can receive US $1,500 - US $4,000 annually to maintain and expand stewardship practices. With a mission to support sustainable working lands, USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Wisconsin provides CSP contracts for producers meeting conservation thresholds and actively managing their operations.

SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

Wisconsin land and habitat conservation partners working near military installations or ranges can access funding through the U.S. Department of Defense’s REPI Program; awards up to US $20,000,000 support projects that prevent land-use conflicts, enhance installation resilience, and alleviate environmental restrictions across the U.S. and its territories, including Pacific and island locations.

501(c)(3) nonprofits and municipalities in southern Wisconsin can seek up to US $3,500 for land, water, and natural resource conservation projects. Grants from the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin help organizations in counties like Crawford, Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, La Crosse, Richland, Sauk, and Vernon advance land and habitat conservation efforts.

Nonprofit organizations and public entities working on land and habitat conservation, ecosystem restoration, and related environmental initiatives in Wisconsin may be eligible for grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help U.S. land conservation and restoration efforts, with particular interest in projects connected to private lands and nature-based solutions.

Graduate students focused on land and habitat conservation in Wisconsin can gain paid, hands-on experience through the Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, earning up to US $6,870. Focused on collaborative conservation, National Forest Foundation invites master’s and doctoral students to complete a practicum supporting National Forests and Grasslands, with some projects offering remote work options.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations working on nationally significant wildlife and land or habitat conservation, including in Wisconsin, can apply for Park Foundation’s animal welfare funding to support policy, advocacy, education, organizing, and Indigenous wildlife management efforts. Grants may also back sanctuaries for great apes and initiatives protecting pollinators, wolves, whales, birds, and related ecosystems.

Cascades Donations and Sponsorships focuses on building sustainable partnerships in education, entrepreneurship, and amateur sports. They support community organizations, promote healthy lifestyles, and recognize student engagement through grants. Cascades prioritizes projects in its operational regions and encourages initiatives that address climate change and foster inclusivity. Their funding approach is rooted in creating lasting positive impacts and supporting the next generation of leaders while adhering to their values and philosophy.

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.

Mission

The Biodiversity Fund supports efforts to maintain and strengthen biodiversity in the Duluth-Superior region through preservation and restoration of habitat, help for particular species and ecosystems, planning for changing conditions, research and education. The purpose is to consider now the value to future generations of the species and ecosystem diversity that will remain when/if human population stabilizes.

Biodiversity Fund

The Biodiversity Fund supports projects that preserve and restore habitats, assist vulnerable species and ecosystems, plan for environmental change, and promote research and education in the Duluth-Superior region.

The fund aims to protect the region's biodiversity through conservation, preservation, and restoration of natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

Biodiversity Fund- Large & Multi-Year Grants

The Fund may also support larger initiatives of up to $50,000 per year for up to three years, for projects that require sustained investment to achieve meaningful, long-term impact. ‍

Multi-year requests should demonstrate:

• A clear long-term vision with defined milestones that allow progress to be assessed prior to subsequent years of funding each year
• How the work will scale, adapt, or deepen impact over time
• Strong partnerships, stewardship plans, or systems-level outcomes
• A plan for sustainability beyond the grant period

What We Mean by Biodiversity

‍Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems and the complex relationships that sustain them. Biodiversity underpins ecosystem stability, climate resilience, and human well-being by providing essential services such as clean air and water, natural food systems, nature-derived medicines, and climate adaptation and regulation.

This grant recognizes that healthy natural ecosystems and sustainable native plant and animal communities are deeply interconnected — environmental degradation often exacerbates social inequities and instability of communities of habitats and ecosystems. Community-led solutions strengthen ecological outcomes.

Biodiversity Fund Priorities

Funded projects should demonstrate strength in several of the following areas. Not every project must address all principles, but competitive proposals will show clear alignment across multiple dimensions.

• Upstream & Preventative Focus
  • Projects address root causes rather than symptoms.
  • Prioritize prevention, restoration, and long-term solutions
  • Reduce risk and vulnerability for people, species, and ecosystems
  • Anticipate environmental and social change rather than reacting after harm occurs
• Collaboration & Community Voice
  • Projects are grounded in authentic partnership.
  • Build cross-sector collaboration (e.g., nonprofits, Tribal Nations, schools, governments, researchers, community groups)
  • Center the expertise and leadership of people with lived experience, including Indigenous knowledge and local ecological expertise
  • Share power in design, decision-making, and implementation
• Equity-Centered Impact
  • Projects advance equity for both people and place.
  • Prioritize historically marginalized communities and/or vulnerable species and ecosystems
  • Focus resources, decision-making power, or stewardship closer to impacted communities
  • Recognize how environmental harm and social inequity intersect
• Systems, Policy & Practice Change
  • Projects have transferability and relevance beyond a single site or program.
  • Improve institutional practices, policies, land-use decisions, or resource flows
  • Strengthen community-level systems related to housing, food security, climate adaptation, education, or conservation
  • Demonstrate potential for replication, scaling, or broader adoption
• Sustainability & Capacity Building
  • Projects plan for impact that lasts beyond the grant period.
  • Strengthen organizational, community, or ecosystem capacity
  • Build skills, infrastructure, stewardship, or long-term management plans
  • Promote ongoing care, monitoring, or adaptive management of natural systems
• Evidence of Change & Learning
  • Projects contribute to shared learning and understanding.
  • Use data, research, community knowledge, or storytelling to demonstrate impact
  • Measure ecological, social, or systems-level outcomes
  • Share lessons learned to inform future equity-, resilience-, and biodiversity-focused work