F25AS00290 FY 2025 Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund Traditional Conservation Grants Program Region 6

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), through the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund, is accepting applications for its FY 2025 Traditional Conservation Grants Program under funding opportunity number F25AS00290. Administered through FWS Region 6, this opportunity supports conservation projects that promote the recovery of species listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as well as candidate, eligible unlisted, and recently delisted species. Region 6 includes the states of Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. The program encourages cooperation with states and territories by funding the development and implementation of state-led programs that directly benefit species recovery. The goal of the Traditional Conservation Grant Program is to fund high-priority recovery actions that lead to tangible conservation outcomes. Eligible projects may involve habitat enhancement, species surveys, research, propagation, outreach, and monitoring activities that support the long-term viability of targeted species. While priority is given to federally listed species with established recovery plans, funding is also available for species that meet specific eligibility criteria, such as those with positive findings under ESA petition reviews or that appear on the National Listing Workplan. The grant program emphasizes measurable conservation outcomes and strategic alignment with FWS recovery plans or other relevant management strategies. Eligibility is restricted to U.S. state agencies that have signed or will sign a cooperative agreement with the FWS under section 6(c) of the ESA. These agencies must conduct conservation activities for species already listed in their cooperative agreements. While only state agencies can receive funding, other organizations such as conservation groups or counties may participate as subgrantees under a state's application. All projects must be voluntary and comply with applicable ESA requirements. Land acquisition projects are not eligible, and FWS personnel costs (FTEs) may not be included in project budgets. A permit may be required for certain types of wildlife handling, and pre-award costs may be reimbursed only if explicitly approved. The estimated total funding for this opportunity is $756,753, with up to eight awards expected. Individual awards can range from $1,000 to $756,753. A 25% non-federal cost share is required for most applicants, though projects involving two or more states qualify for a reduced match of 10%. U.S. territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, are exempt from the cost-share requirement. Matching funds can be in cash or in-kind contributions. Applicants must demonstrate that proposed budgets are necessary, realistic, and compliant with federal cost principles. Applications must be submitted electronically via GrantSolutions.gov no later than 11:59 PM ET on September 19, 2025. The anticipated project start date is September 30, 2025, with a maximum project period of three years. Extensions may be granted up to 12 months if justified. Application packages must include SF-424 and SF-424A forms, a project narrative, a project abstract summary, and budget justifications. If applicable, an SF-LLL lobbying disclosure form must also be submitted. Applications will be evaluated for eligibility, merit, technical feasibility, cost realism, and alignment with ESA recovery priorities. The final award decisions will be made by the Regional Director, with potential for further review by the FWS Director and Department of the Interior. Applicants are encouraged to engage early with FWS contacts and confirm their SAM.gov registration status. Questions may be directed to Angela Burgess at angela_burgess@fws.gov or by phone at 303-236-4263. Award notices will be distributed via GrantSolutions and will outline reporting and compliance responsibilities under federal law.

Narratives should align with ESA recovery actions and demonstrate direct benefits to species or habitat. Reviewers favor cost-effective, outcome-driven proposals.