Watchable Wildlife Grants

The Watchable Wildlife Grants, funded through the Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, aim to develop and enhance wildlife-viewing and nature-based experiences throughout Nebraska. The primary objective of these grants is to encourage public engagement with natural resources, fostering a sense of stewardship and appreciation for wildlife through meaningful experiences. Grants are available to support a variety of projects, including the development of viewing sites, interpretive signage, events, infrastructure, and related equipment or planning initiatives. The application period for the 2025 grant cycle runs from August 4, 2025, to October 3, 2025, with a submission deadline of October 3 at 5:00 p.m. CT. Applications will be reviewed by the Nebraska Watchable Wildlife Committee, and awarded projects will be announced in November 2025. Grant-funded projects must be completed by May 4, 2026, with all final reports and invoices submitted by that date. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must complete their projects, submit receipts and required documentation, and then receive reimbursement. Each proposal can request up to $6,000 in funding, with a required 25% match, which can include in-kind contributions. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, individuals, and for-profit businesses. However, for-profit applicants must demonstrate that their project benefits the public and is not solely designed for financial gain. Projects must focus on improving opportunities for wildlife observation, promoting appreciation for local natural resources, and ensuring a net positive impact on wildlife and the environment. Previously funded projects and projects completed before the grant cycle concludes are ineligible. Additionally, computers, software, and similar items cannot be funded. Applicants must enter into a contract with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission upon receiving a grant award, a process that takes approximately 3–4 weeks. Depending on the project's nature, interim progress reports may be required, along with site visits by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff. Projects involving permanent structures, such as viewing decks, must undergo an environmental review to assess potential impacts on listed species or cultural resources. Educational or interpretive signage projects must include an outreach event as part of their implementation. Project proposals will be evaluated based on several criteria, including wildlife observation value, engagement potential, reach and participation, integration with local communities, capacity building, and financial sustainability. Strong proposals will demonstrate an ability to provide meaningful wildlife-viewing experiences without negatively impacting wildlife, encourage public engagement, and contribute to broader community education and tourism initiatives. Successful projects will also illustrate financial sustainability beyond the grant period and involve additional partnerships or funding sources. Applicants must submit a budget sheet as part of their application, detailing proposed expenses and match contributions. Since the program is reimbursement-based, applicants must cover costs upfront before receiving funding. For projects involving permanent structures, environmental review results must be submitted alongside the application. Questions about eligibility or project scope can be directed to the Watchable Wildlife Biologist at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.