Conservation License Plate Grant Program

The Conservation License Plate Grant Program, managed by the New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources (NHDHR), supports the preservation of publicly owned historic resources throughout New Hampshire. Often referred to as the “Moose Plate” Program, it was established through RSA 261:97 and is funded by the sale and renewal of specialty license plates featuring a moose design. Proceeds are directed to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, which then allocates a portion to NHDHR to enhance conservation efforts for historically significant sites and artifacts. This initiative is part of a broader state strategy to protect valuable natural and cultural assets and supplement existing preservation efforts. Grants through this program are awarded in amounts up to $20,000 and are specifically designated for the preservation of historic buildings, structures, bridges, cemeteries, and archaeological sites that are publicly owned and either listed or eligible for listing on the New Hampshire State or National Registers of Historic Places. Qualifying properties must belong to state, county, or local governments, or to nonprofits operating within publicly owned buildings. Projects must adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, ensuring consistent preservation quality and historical integrity. The Conservation License Plate Grant does not support work on privately owned properties, archaeological research, new construction, engineering studies, collections acquisition, or any work completed prior to grant approval. Likewise, organizations may only submit one application per grant cycle and may not apply to multiple DNCR divisions for the same project. Additional ineligible uses include administrative costs, lobbying, fundraising, and work on moved properties that are no longer eligible for historic designation. Each application must include a contractor estimate for the proposed work, though the contractor may differ from the one selected to carry out the project. To begin the application process, eligible organizations must submit an "Intent to Apply" form, which is reviewed by the NHDHR to determine eligibility and alignment with program requirements. Only those approved through this step may proceed to submit a full application. The review process includes evaluation by a panel comprising NHDHR staff, other DNCR representatives, and preservation professionals. Evaluations consider the historical significance of the site, the necessity and clarity of the project goals, archaeological impacts, community support, and public benefit. While the program typically runs annually, NHDHR has announced that the Conservation License Plate Grant Program will not open a funding round for the year 2025. Prospective applicants are advised to monitor announcements in future years for the next available opportunity. When awarded, grant-funded projects must commence no earlier than October 1 of the award year and must be completed within two years. Payments are issued in two parts: up to 50% upon grant agreement approval and the remainder upon project completion. Regular progress reports are required every six months, and a final report is necessary to release the concluding funds. For technical inquiries or help discussing potential project ideas, applicants may contact Benjamin Wilson via email at benjamin.h.wilson@dncr.nh.gov. Additional information, including the grant manual and a list of previous award recipients by location, is available on the NHDHR website.