Watchable wildlife grants
This granting opportunity seeks to help develop Watchable Wildlife Grants, funded through the Wildlife Conservation Fund and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to help develop wildlife-viewing and nature-based experiences in Nebraska. The intent of these grants is to help the public build appreciation and stewardship for natural resources through an experience.
A maximum of $6,000 is available per proposal. A 25% match is required, which may include an in-kind match. Potential projects include but are not limited to viewing site development, events, infrastructure, interpretive signs, equipment and plan development.
Eligible projects
- Non-profit, governmental, and for-profit entities are all eligible to apply. If the application is by a for-profit entity, the applicant must describe how the project is not designed for the sole benefit of profit of the organization or company.
- The proposal must distinguish if the majority focus is on game and/or nongame species, as related to wildlife-observation.
- The project must develop ways to improve wildlife observation.
- The project must have a net positive impact on natural resources and wildlife.
- The project must promote stewardship and appreciation of local natural resources.
- A project that is already completed prior to completion of the grant process is ineligible.
- Computers, software, and items of similar nature are ineligible.
- A project funded previously will not be funded.
Amount
- Maximum of $6,000 per proposal.
- A 25% match is required.
- In-kind match is acceptable.
Timeline
- Deadline to submit proposals is October 23, 2022.
- Grants will be reviewed by a Nebraska Watchable Wildlife Committee.
- Awarded projects will be announced in November 2022.
- Projects must be completed, with final reports and invoices submitted by June 2, 2023.
- No extensions will be granted for these funds.
Grant application
- Complete the Grant Application Form and email any required additional materials to Olivia DaRugna olivia.darugna@nebraska.gov.
- See the application and the sample budget sheet for more details under the below Resources button.
- To receive a grant award, a contract between the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the recipient will be established (allow 3–4 weeks).
- Watchable Wildlife Grants are a reimbursement program, and must show receipts, established match, and a final report in order to receive reimbursement.
- Depending on the nature of the project, an interim report may be required describing project progress including photos if applicable.
- Projects must be available for site visits from Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff.
- Projects must give credit to the Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission when appropriate.
- A final report is due upon project completion, with a deadline of June 2, 2023.
- There will be no ability to extend these funds past the June 2, 2023 deadline.
1) Wildlife Observation Value:
- Does this project provide a reasonable opportunity for people to observe wildlife?
- Does it provide an observation experience that is not damaging or disruptive to wildlife?
- Does this project reasonably relate to game and/or nongame species and habitats?
2) Education Value or Content Value:
- Does it educate people on recreation opportunities at this location appropriately?
- Does this project educate people about what they are experiencing?
3) Reach/Participation:
- How many people are likely to be impacted by this project annually?
- What is the target audience of this project?
- How will this project recruit individuals to participate?
- How will it encourage more nature-based recreation?
4) Integration:
- How will this project impact or integrate with the region or local communities?
- Does your project promote a larger region or your community as a tourism destination?
- Are partners engaged in this project?
5) Capacity Building:
- Is this a new development or a new component of an existing endeavor?
- Does this project encourage new partnerships or secure new funding sources?
6) Sustainable:
- Will this project be maintained in the future? How?
- What is the expected lifespan of the project?
- Is this something that will require this grant annually in order to continue?
Awarded Projects 2022-2023
| Organization | Project | Award Amount |
| Crane Maintenance Trust Inc. | Wildlife Viewing Area Enhancements | $2,400 |
| ESU #3 (Gifford Farm) | Nature Trail & Platform Project | $5,516.35 |
| Hastings Middle School | Wetland Observation Deck | $6,000 |
| Bluebirds Across Nebraska | Chimney Swift Tower | $4,083.65 |
| Neil Dankert | Moth Addition to Nebraska Lepidoptera | $6,000 |
| Niobrara State Park | Grouse Viewing Blind | $5,615 |
| Burchard Lake WMA | Prairie Chicken Blind Improvements | $500 |
| E. T. Mahoney State Park | Bird Viewing Pond | $6,000 |
| Smith Falls State Park | Nature Trail Signs | $2,392 |
| Wildlife Education Division | Neighborhood Nature Fest | $1,493 |
