York and Lancaster Counties Habitat Improvement Grant

The York and Lancaster Counties Habitat Improvement Grant Program is managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and is designed to support environmental restoration efforts specifically in York and Lancaster Counties, Pennsylvania. This program is funded through two consistent sources: the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station and the Muddy Run Pumped Storage Project. As part of their respective Section 401 Water Quality Certifications, both facilities are required to contribute annually to habitat improvement initiatives. The Peach Bottom facility provides $100,000 per year, while the Muddy Run project contributes $50,000 annually through 2030, combining for a total of $150,000 each year to support local environmental projects. The program’s funding is intended for habitat improvement and sediment reduction projects. Eligible project types include forested stream buffers, wetland creation, dam removal, streambank restoration and maintenance, and best management practices for barnyards, pastures, and fields. Priority is given to stream buffers at least 50 feet wide and to projects focusing on wetland creation and dam removal. Applications that seek funding for construction are favored, though design proposals may also be funded if they present a high likelihood of future completion. Applicants must demonstrate a strong environmental mission and meet specific organizational criteria. Eligible entities include government agencies at the state and federal levels, conservation districts, councils of government, and nonprofits engaged in environmental research, conservation, education, or restoration. Nonprofits must have 501(c)(3) status, be registered with the Pennsylvania Department of State, and have existed for at least five consecutive years. The organization’s mission must include habitat or watershed conservation. The program does not allow applications from individuals or for-profit firms. The maximum award for any single project is $75,000. Funding may not be used for indirect administrative costs, and direct administrative costs are capped at 5% of the total award amount. Applicants are encouraged to secure matching funds through other grants or in-kind contributions such as volunteer labor or donated materials. However, PFBC funds or services from other PFBC programs cannot be used to fulfill the match requirement. The grant operates on a reimbursement basis, and all selected grantees must enter into a cooperative agreement with PFBC. Applications for the 2026 funding round must be postmarked by February 20, 2026. Proposals may be submitted either as one hard copy or one electronic copy. Applicants are required to label their submission with the program title in the subject line for proper routing. Selected projects are expected to be announced in May 2026. Questions regarding the program or the application process should be directed to Dave Dippold at ddippold@pa.gov or (814) 380-0457. The grant program is expected to continue issuing funds annually and follows a recurring yearly schedule.

Prioritize buffers of at least 50 feet, construction-ready proposals, and clearly define match sources.