Natural Areas Research Grant

The Natural Areas Research Grant, formally known as the Allison Cusick and Daniel Rice Research Grant Program, is administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Natural Areas and Preserves (DNAP). This program is rooted in the Division's mission to preserve Ohio's unique natural heritage by protecting and restoring its most critical land and water resources. The grant is named after two pioneering figures in the field of Ohio's natural sciences: Daniel Rice, the first Chief Zoologist, and Allison Cusick, the first Chief Botanist. Their contributions to the study and preservation of Ohio’s flora and fauna laid the groundwork for the state's modern ecological research and conservation efforts. This grant program is designed to support scientific research that enhances understanding and informs conservation of Ohio's aquatic and terrestrial biological resources. Research topics may include the study of native animals, plants, fungi, and the ecological processes that sustain these systems. Of particular interest is work that addresses the occurrence, distribution, and ecology of species, as well as projects examining the impacts of invasive species within Ohio ecosystems. The funded research serves educational, scientific, and conservation purposes, contributing to the long-term stewardship of the state’s natural assets. Eligible applicants include individuals affiliated with Ohio-based organizations such as universities, colleges, school districts, park districts, nonprofit conservation groups with 501(c)(3) status, and botanical or natural history societies and clubs. Multiple proposals may be submitted from a single affiliation. This inclusive eligibility ensures a broad range of scientific expertise and encourages both professional researchers and students to contribute to Ohio’s environmental knowledge base. The grant offers up to $5,000 in funding per project. Funds may be used for research-related expenses including equipment, supplies, and travel necessary for fieldwork. However, funds cannot be used for overhead, travel to meetings, or any costs not directly associated with the objectives of the proposed project. This is a reimbursement-based grant, meaning costs are reimbursed after project deliverables are submitted and approved. Awardees are required to submit a final report and budget summary by March 31 of the year following the grant period. All publications or presentations resulting from the funded work must acknowledge DNAP and be submitted to the Division as PDFs. To apply, applicants must submit a typed proposal using the official Grant Proposal Form beginning December 15, with the final deadline for submission being February 1 at 11:59 pm EST each year. Proposals must be sent electronically in MS Word or PDF format to [email protected]. The subject line should read “DNAP Research Grant,” and the file name must follow a specific format: “lastname-firstname-DNAP-Grant-2022.” Required materials include a proposal (not exceeding two pages), a cover letter, a CV, and preferably letters of recommendation supporting the applicant's qualifications and the importance of the proposed project. Proposals must also include a detailed budget and timeline. Questions about the program can be directed to Rick Gardner, the Chief Botanist at DNAP. The program runs annually, with each cycle beginning in December and closing in February. The grant supports a wide range of studies, as evidenced by previously funded projects, such as genetic assessments of endangered species, habitat inventories, and ecological analyses across Ohio's preserves and watersheds. With its targeted funding and clear conservation objectives, the Natural Areas Research Grant serves as a vital instrument in advancing Ohio’s ecological research and biodiversity preservation efforts.

Conservation genetic assessment of smooth greensnakes (Opheodrys vernalis) in Ohio.; A dendrological and successional analysis of the three major vegetation types of the Davey Woods State Nature Preserve, Champaign County, Ohio; Inventory of Carolina willow (Salix caroliniana) in southwestern Ohio.; Using timelapse cameras to determine potential viability of timber rattlesnake populations in Southern Ohio.; Breeding bird & Odonate survey of the Scenic Rivers properties in the Little Beaver Creek watershed area.; A potential new nemesis for garlic mustard? Exploring the range and impacts of a newly arrived specialist aphid.; Assessing the presence of the state endangered, sparse-lobed grape fern (Sceptridium biternatum) in Ohio by ISSR-PCR;