State Pheasant Fund

The State Pheasant Fund grant program is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as part of its Special Wildlife Funds Grant Program. This initiative is funded through state resources generated primarily from the sale of habitat stamps purchased by sportsmen and sportswomen. The program supports conservation-focused projects designed to enhance pheasant habitat and broader wildlife ecosystems across the state of Illinois. Oversight includes evaluation by a designated advisory committee, with final funding decisions made by the Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The core purpose of the program is to preserve, protect, acquire, manage, and improve habitat for wild pheasants and associated wildlife species. Funded projects are expected to contribute to habitat quality and connectivity across Illinois landscapes, including wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands, and woodlands. Eligible project activities include land acquisition, habitat restoration or enhancement on public or private lands, wildlife research, and public education efforts related to pheasants and hunting practices. These activities must directly support the conservation and sustainability of pheasant populations within the state. Funding for the program is entirely state-based, with an estimated total program funding of approximately 171000 dollars for the referenced cycle. While specific award amounts per project are not defined, funding is distributed competitively based on project merit and alignment with program goals. Grants operate on a reimbursement basis, requiring grantees to document expenditures before receiving payment. The grant period may extend up to 24 months, during which all approved project activities must be completed and funds fully expended. Any unspent funds must be returned to the department in accordance with grant terms. Eligibility is limited to appropriate not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities that have the expertise, equipment, and necessary permissions to carry out habitat-related work. Not-for-profit organizations must be properly registered and in good standing in Illinois, with a mission aligned to conservation, habitat development, or wildlife management. Applicants must also complete prequalification requirements through the Illinois Grant Accountability and Transparency Act system, including registration and compliance verification in the state’s grant portal. The application process requires submission through an online portal following successful prequalification. Applicants must prepare and submit a complete application package that includes required documentation such as a W-9 form, IRS determination letter where applicable, project maps, and a detailed project narrative. Additional materials such as price quotes, habitat management plans, and supporting documentation may also be required depending on the scope of the project. Applications must be submitted electronically within the specified application window to be considered. Applications are evaluated based on multiple criteria, including biological importance, geographic reach, habitat quality, feasibility, cost effectiveness, and the degree of public access provided. Additional consideration may be given to projects that include cost sharing or partnerships, although matching funds are not required. All applications are reviewed by department staff and the advisory committee, which provides recommendations to the Director for final approval. For the current cycle, applications are accepted from July 1 through August 1, as confirmed by the most recent 2026 program announcement. The program operates on an annual recurring cycle with consistent timing each year. Applicants are encouraged to begin preparation early due to required prequalification steps and supporting documentation. Questions and assistance are available through the program contact, Susan Duke, via email. Award notifications follow the review process after the application window closes, and selected applicants must execute a formal grant agreement before beginning project work.

Align project with habitat improvement goals and scoring criteria including feasibility and public benefit