The Wildlife Conservation Section of the DNR Wildlife Resources Division administers a small-grants program for wildlife viewing projects in the state. Funding is provided by Georgia’s Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund.

These grants help develop and improve wildlife-viewing opportunities that increase public awareness and appreciation of nongame wildlife, rare native plant species and natural habitats. The program emphasizes species and habitats considered conservation priorities in Georgia’s State Wildlife Action Plan.

Wildlife viewing is big in Georgia. More than 2.4 million residents and visitors took part in 2011. From feeding birds to visiting public lands for wildlife photography, they spent an estimated $1.8 billion. Nationwide, the number of people involved in wildlife viewing increased from 71.8 million in 2011 to 86 million in 2016.

Grant Updates

The application period for 2023 is closed. Details on the 2024 cycle will be available here this fall.

• Proposal instructions
• File a proposal
• What's next if you receive a grant
• Previous projects

Questions? Contact Rick Lavender, (706) 557-3327 or rick.lavender@dnr.ga.gov.