WVDNR Accepting Applications for Cooperative Research and Management Grants


The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Diversity Unit is accepting applications for grants that support research, conservation or education projects.

“These projects are designed to enhance our knowledge and protection of the state’s nongame wildlife, native plants and natural habitats,” said Curtis I. Taylor, Chief of the WVDNR’s Wildlife Resources Section.  Nongame wildlife includes species that are not typically taken for sport, fur or food, and generally includes animals such as frogs, lizards, snakes, crayfish, insects, songbirds and others.

The WVDNR grant program has two categories. The first category supports scientific research that will lead to increased knowledge of the population status or natural history of a species of concern or greater understanding of the status of ecological communities. The second category funds projects that benefit nongame wildlife or botanical resources through some aspect of education, conservation, species protection, or habitat management and enhancement.

“Species diversity and ecosystem health affect all aspects of our lives,” Taylor said. “These are resources that people depend on for clean water, air, productive soils, as well as for raw materials.”

Applicants eligible to submit proposals may include formally organized clubs, organizations in West Virginia, persons affiliated with state or private colleges or universities, school systems, industry, research and other profit or non-profit organizations, federal, state or local government agencies, and private individuals. Full-time DNR employees may not apply.

The application booklet and guidance materials can be found on the Wildlife Diversity Web pages at www.WVDNR.gov, or contact Patty Fordyce at 304-637-0245 or patty.s.fordyce@wv.gov to receive the booklet or to get additional information.  All proposals must be submitted or postmarked on or before January 10, 2014.

Announcement developed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.