HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Wild Resource Conservation Program (WRCP) grants. This initiative provides funding to advance critical research and conservation projects aimed at protecting the state’s native wildlife, plants, and ecosystems.
The WRCP is specifically designed to safeguard non-game species, including many that fall outside the scope of conventional conservation programs. By focusing on vulnerable animals, native plants, and invertebrates, the program aims to strengthen biodiversity across Pennsylvania.
“These grants fuel the kind of science-driven, hands-on conservation work that helps protect Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable wildlife and plant species,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “The Shapiro Administration is committed to maintaining our Commonwealth’s rich biodiversity for future generations — and this program is a key part of that mission.”
Grant Priorities for 2025
The 2025 WRCP grant program prioritizes several key areas, including surveys and habitat management for species at risk. These efforts target Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable plants and animals, such as the Allegheny woodrat, northern harrier, green salamander, and state-listed native plants. Conservation initiatives will also focus on rare invertebrates, such as Gammarus amphipods and 12 regional stonefly species.
Additional funding priorities include genetic research on native species, such as grapes and mountain mint, and habitat restoration projects to support declining bird populations, including the wood thrush, a key species of concern.
Rebecca Bowen, DCNR’s chief of Conservation Science and Ecological Resources, emphasized the importance of the program. “The 2025 grant round is focused on supporting recovery and implementation efforts for Pennsylvania’s rare, threatened, and endangered species,” Bowen stated. “The Wild Resource Conservation Program is unique in that it allows Pennsylvanians to directly support the protection of non-game wildlife and native plants.”
A Program Rooted in Conservation
Established in 1982, the WRCP has been instrumental in funding research and protection measures for Pennsylvania’s rich natural heritage. This includes work on bird and mammal species, amphibians, reptiles, insects, wild plants, and fungi. Unlike many other initiatives, WRCP focuses on species often overlooked in mainstream conservation efforts but vital to maintaining ecological balance.
The program is primarily funded through two unique public contribution mechanisms. Pennsylvanians can support the initiative through purchases of the Eastern Hellbender license plate or by contributing via the state’s voluntary tax check-off. These fund-raising efforts directly funnel resources into scientific studies and habitat restoration projects.
Proven Impact
Last year, the program allocated $372,000 in grant funding to support field research and conservation efforts, including projects aimed at protecting Pennsylvania’s imperiled fungi, restoring habitats, and preserving state-listed plant species. This year’s initiatives are expected to expand on these successes, advancing efforts to combat biodiversity loss and safeguard critical ecosystems.
Commitment to Pennsylvania’s Biodiversity
With the WRCP’s streamlined focus on species recovery and habitat management, DCNR underscores the administration’s dedication to protecting the state’s natural resources. From restoring sensitive habitats to addressing population declines of at-risk species, the program plays a pivotal role in conservation efforts that benefit Pennsylvania’s diverse ecosystems.
Looking forward, these grants will continue to support cutting-edge science that strengthens ecological health and ensures the survival of Pennsylvania’s native wildlife and plant species. With this year’s grant round now open, conservation teams and researchers are poised to take important steps in preserving the Commonwealth’s biodiversity for generations to come.
How to Apply
Applications are open through 4:00 PM on July 7, 2025, via DCNR’s online grant portal. Proposals supporting DCNR’s Wildlife Action Plan or other conservation priorities are encouraged, even if not specifically listed.
Visit DCNR’s website for grant criteria, priority species, and application details.
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