Sustaining Prairies Fund

The Sustaining Prairies Fund is a grant initiative managed by the Grassland Heritage Foundation (GHF), an organization dedicated to the preservation of native prairies in eastern Kansas. GHF accomplishes its mission through education, stewardship, and land protection. This grant program is designed to support existing prairie gardens and plantings, particularly those located at schools, churches, or other community sites. Its focus is to ensure that these spaces remain ecologically viable and educationally useful, especially for engaging younger generations with prairie ecosystems. The primary purpose of the Sustaining Prairies Fund is to maintain and improve native prairie habitats that have already been established. The fund acknowledges that initial enthusiasm for creating prairie gardens may wane over time, leading to neglect. To address this, the program offers financial assistance to help sustain these spaces. Acceptable uses of funding include weed and shrub removal, professional consultations on prairie management, and expenses related to prescribed burns. Additionally, applicants may use funds to support student engagement programs, purchase tools for maintenance, or compensate youth participants. Applications that seek to enhance the use of prairie spaces for educational purposes are particularly encouraged. Example uses include providing gear like rubber boots or jumpsuits to facilitate student access, developing educational signage or curriculum, and hosting events such as “prairie day” open houses. Funds can also be used to purchase teaching aids like nets, magnifiers, or field guides. Applicants are encouraged to think creatively within the defined parameters of prairie management and utilization to improve community awareness and engagement with native ecosystems. Eligible applicants must already have a prairie garden or restoration area in place that predominantly features native prairie species. New prairie establishment is not covered by this program. The grant supports a variety of site sizes, from small pollinator gardens to larger prairie reconstructions. Projects must be located in northeastern Kansas, reflecting GHF's regional focus. Proposals should demonstrate a clear plan for using the funds within one year of receipt and must include a follow-up essay describing the impact of the funding for publication in GHF’s newsletter. The fund offers grants ranging from $500 to $1,000. Applications are currently open for the 2025 program, with two application deadlines: January 15 and July 15, 2025. All submissions must be sent via email to info@grasslandheritage.org with “Sustaining Prairies Fund” in the subject line. The application form is available for download from GHF’s website. While no matching funds are required, successful applicants will be expected to complete their project within a year and contribute a short written report on the outcomes. Support for this fund is made possible by Susan Lordi-Marker, a dedicated advocate for prairie preservation and long-time GHF supporter. Her contribution underscores the program’s emphasis on long-term ecological stewardship and youth education. For any questions regarding the application or eligibility, applicants are encouraged to contact the Grassland Heritage Foundation via the provided email address or mailing address at PO Box 394, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66201.

Include creative plans that engage young people or improve the use of existing prairie spaces.