Wisconsin Rare Plant Preservation Fund

Preserving Wisconsin’s most precious and imperiled plants

The Wisconsin Rare Plant Preservation Fund was established to support projects that protect Wisconsin’s rare plants and lichens through monitoring, inventorying, and preservation. Grants range from $500 to $1,000.

Grantmaking Priorities:

• Projects that involve monitoring, inventorying, or preservation of Wisconsin’s rare plant or lichen species listed on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Natural Heritage Working List.
• Projects that leverage resources and partnerships.

Eligibility:

• Applicant must be one of the following: a public charity with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II status); a federal, state, or local governmental unit, an American Indian nation or tribal community; or an accredited school, college, or university. The following types of organizations are not eligible for funding: individuals; businesses; section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations; section 501(c)(4) organizations; section 501(c)(7) organizations; private foundations; and private operating foundations. Individuals interested in funding must work with a nonprofit or other qualified exempt organization of their choice.
• Indirect costs are not permitted.
• Preference will be given to projects that demonstrate matching funds.
• Projects involving invasive species removal, gardening, or education are not eligible.
• Projects must benefit rare plants in Wisconsin.

How to Apply:

1. Determine if your project addresses our grantmaking priorities and meets our eligibility requirements.
2. Contact the fund’s donor advisor, Jim Bennett (Jim.Bennett@wisc.edu), to discuss your project.
3. Complete the application (paper copies of applications are not accepted). Please reference the specific plant or lichen species your project will support in your application.
4. Include proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter). For projects that take place on a State Natural Area include a letter of support from Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ State Natural Areas program. For projects on other public properties include a letter of support from the property manager.
5. Submit all materials to Lindsey at NRFgrants@WisConservation.org by February 1st. 
6. Applicants will be notified within six weeks.