SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va.—   Applications for grants that support research, conservation or education projects are being accepted by the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources WVDNR through its Wildlife Diversity Unit. 

“These projects are designed to enhance our knowledge and protection of the state’s nongame wildlife, native plants and natural habitats,” said DNR Wildlife Resources Section Chief Curtis Taylor. Nongame wildlife includes species for which people do not hunt, trap or fish, and generally includes animals such as songbirds, frogs, lizards, snakes, crayfish and insects. All proposals must be submitted or postmarked on or before Nov. 20.

The WVDNR grant program has two categories: One 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 and productive soils, as well as for raw materials.”

Applications may be submitted by  formally organized clubs and organizations in West Virginia, persons affiliated with state or private colleges, universities and school systems, industry, research and other profit or non-profit organizations, federal, state or local government agencies, and private individuals are eligible to submit proposals. 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.  You may also contact Patty Fordyce at 304-637-0245 or pattyfordyce@wvdnr.gov to receive the booklet or if you have additional questions concerning the application process. 
 

AP Video