Maryland Natural Resources Grants

The Anne Arundel County Government and Chesapeake Bay Trust have partnered to fund forestry projects and land protection in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. This grant program, with a deadline of August 1, 2024, offers grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 for a duration of two years. The overarching goal is to implement cost-effective reforestation and greening initiatives while increasing protected forested land. This aligns with the Chesapeake Bay Trust's mission of restoring and protecting the Chesapeake Bay, as increasing tree cover and green areas directly contribute to improved water and soil quality, reduced erosion, and filtered airborne pollutants, all of which benefit the health of the Bay watershed. The program targets areas within Anne Arundel County, excluding the City of Annapolis. The primary beneficiaries are the residents and the natural environment of Anne Arundel County, as the projects aim to improve air and water quality, mitigate erosion, reduce summer temperatures and ozone pollution, and ensure valuable ecological services like habitat, water quality, and flood control for the future. The desired impact is a healthier, more sustainable environment through increased tree cover and protected forested lands. The program prioritizes reforestation/afforestation of protected lands, permanent protection of forested lands, and reforestation/afforestation and protection of uneased and unforested lands. Track 1 focuses on projects providing ecological benefits through riparian buffers, contiguous forest tracts, and wildlife habitat. Track 2 supports acquiring, executing, recording, and monitoring permanent conservation easements to protect existing tree canopy, particularly ecologically valuable sites. Track 3 allows for reforestation/afforestation on unprotected land, contingent on placing a permanent conservation easement, deed restriction, or long-term protective agreement. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in acres of reforested and protected forested land within Anne Arundel County. By expanding tree cover, the program anticipates a reduction in erosion, an improvement in water and soil quality, and a decrease in airborne pollutants such as particulates, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. Additionally, the initiative is expected to lower summer temperatures, thereby reducing ozone pollution and energy consumption. The protection of forested lands will ensure long-term ecological services like wildlife habitat, sustained water quality, and effective flood control, contributing to the overall resilience and environmental health of the county.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Maryland schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to enhance environmental education and engage students in hands-on learning experiences that promote environmental stewardship.

This grant provides funding for community organizations and local governments to engage in environmental outreach, education, and restoration projects aimed at improving water quality and ecological health in the Jones Falls watershed of Maryland.

This funding program provides financial support to community-based organizations that empower youth aged 12 to 20 through established, youth-led urban greening initiatives focused on social and environmental justice in select states.

The City of Greenbelt's ARPA Nonprofit Recovery Grant offers a one-time funding opportunity for eligible nonprofit organizations to address negative impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This grant, made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, aims to support the continuity of operations and critical services provided by Greenbelt-serving nonprofits. While the description doesn't explicitly state a "foundation mission" or "theory of change," the grant's objective to aid nonprofits in their recovery aligns with a broader community resilience and support strategy in the wake of the pandemic. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are Greenbelt residents, with a specific focus on marginalized members of the community and those served by programs in areas like education, science, human rights, veteran support, community development, arts & culture, youth development, senior support, natural resources, racial equity, and human services. The impact goals are to restore and sustain vital nonprofit services, address revenue reductions and operating expenses, and ultimately help the Greenbelt community recover from the pandemic's economic and social challenges. Priority for funding will be given to programs that advance education and science, serve the underprivileged, defend human and civil rights, benefit veterans, combat community deterioration, promote arts & culture, address youth development needs, support seniors/aging in place, conserve natural resources, advance racial equity & justice, and provide human services to marginalized community members. Eligible uses of funds are broad, including programming, events for Greenbelt residents, broadband infrastructure, rental and utility assistance, equipment purchase, digital advertising, technology, contracted services, insurance, program expenses, supplies, COVID-19 related expenses, and payroll assistance. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the grant description, the expected outcomes include the sustained operation of critical nonprofit programs, the ability of organizations to address revenue shortfalls and increased expenses due to COVID-19, and the continued provision of essential services to Greenbelt residents, particularly in the priority areas. The overall strategic priority is to leverage ARPA funds to ensure the stability and effectiveness of the nonprofit sector in Greenbelt as it continues to navigate and recover from the pandemic's repercussions.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to U.S. states, territories, and eligible Indian tribes for implementing approved plans to prevent and manage invasive aquatic species.

This program provides funding to various organizations and community groups in Maryland to plant and maintain trees, improving urban environments and combating climate change.

The Community Parks and Playgrounds Program (CPP), administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), provides funding to assist Maryland’s incorporated municipalities and Baltimore City in developing and enhancing public parks and green spaces. This initiative is grounded in the state’s commitment to improving access to outdoor recreational areas, particularly for children and underserved communities. Funded primarily through Maryland’s State General Obligation Bonds, the program supports both the revitalization of existing parks and the creation of new public recreation spaces. These investments aim to promote community well-being, environmental sustainability, and equitable access to recreational infrastructure. The CPP program accepts project proposals from incorporated municipalities and Baltimore City for a broad range of eligible activities. These include the development of new parks, rehabilitation or expansion of existing park infrastructure, installation of playground equipment, creation of nature-oriented recreational features, development of trails and water access points, and acquisition of land intended for new parks. While land acquisition projects are eligible, the program prioritizes capital investments directly tied to park development and improvement. In addition, inclusive playground projects are encouraged and should follow guidance issued by the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council and Department of Disabilities. Applicants must meet several requirements to be considered eligible. Projects must comply with all relevant local, state, and federal laws, be publicly accessible, and remain open without discrimination. The applicant must have legal rights to develop the proposed site, demonstrate readiness to proceed promptly following state approval, and ensure the project's longevity—development projects must remain functional for at least 20 years. Furthermore, applicants must show capacity for long-term project maintenance. For projects involving land acquisition, two independent appraisals are required, and properties acquired must remain in public recreational use in perpetuity. The proposal review and selection process is competitive. DNR staff evaluate each application based on alignment with program goals, compliance with eligibility requirements, and prior grant performance. Projects recommended by the DNR are submitted to the Department of Budget and Management for possible inclusion in the Governor’s budget proposal. Upon legislative approval, the projects proceed to the Board of Public Works and the State Clearinghouse for final authorization. Funding is distributed on a reimbursement basis, although in some cases, advance payment may be considered after state approval. Applications for FY 2027 are due by Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Submissions must be sent via email to laplocalgrants.dnr@maryland.gov, and applicants are encouraged to consult with their assigned Program Administrator before submission to ensure eligibility and completeness. DNR staff will also host two virtual grant workshops via Google Meet to support applicants—on June 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. and July 16, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Award notifications are expected to be issued in May or June 2026, contingent upon state budget approval. Contact information is provided for three regional program administrators: Tiffany DePaoli (tiffanyr.depaoli@maryland.gov | 667-270-0786), Katelyn Mayberry (kate.mayberry@maryland.gov | 443-883-5800), and Michael McQuarrie (michael.mcquarrie@maryland.gov | 410-279-8147). Each administrator is responsible for specific counties and applicants are encouraged to reach out to the appropriate contact for support. Further information and updates are available on the program’s official website.

This program provides financial support to farms and agricultural businesses in Garrett County, Maryland, to enhance their marketing efforts and boost local agricultural economic activity.

This program provides financial assistance to Maryland farmers and watermen for purchasing and installing cold storage equipment to improve product quality and expand their operations.

The Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI) is offering its 2024 Infrastructure Grant Program, which aligns with its mission to support the viability and sustainability of historically underserved farmers and ranchers. This program aims to foster projects that enhance farm viability, create new markets for local agricultural products and services, develop innovative uses for existing farm infrastructure, add value to farm products through processing, packaging, or marketing, and optimize the use of on-farm and natural resources. Additionally, the grant supports cultural and heritage projects dedicated to preserving and continuing specific agrarian traditions, reflecting RAFI's broader commitment to a resilient and equitable food system. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are historically underserved farmers and ranchers, as defined by NRCS, who are in at least their fourth full growing season and have operated their current farm for at least two years. The program specifically targets "livelihood" farmers and ranchers who depend on agriculture for their financial support or are pursuing a long-term career in farming. Eligibility extends to individual farmer owners/co-owners or farm cooperatives, provided at least 50% of the cooperative members meet the individual eligibility criteria. The grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are available to farms located in specific states: AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, SC, TN, or VA. Funding priorities are given to proposals demonstrating a high expected impact on farm viability and sustainability, strong project feasibility, and comprehensive planning, including a clear plan, detailed budget, timeline, and all necessary supporting documentation. RAFI also prioritizes farmers who derive a significant portion of their household income from farm operations, individuals with financial need, or those located in economically disadvantaged areas. Projects that tangibly benefit the surrounding community and farms utilizing agroecological and/or ancestral farming practices are also highly favored, reflecting RAFI's strategic priorities for holistic agricultural development and community engagement. The expected outcomes of the Infrastructure Grant Program include increased farm viability and sustainability for historically underserved farmers, the establishment of new and diversified markets for local products, and the preservation of valuable agricultural traditions. Through these grants, RAFI aims to support projects that lead to concrete improvements in farm infrastructure, expanded income streams for farmers, and a stronger connection between agricultural practices and community well-being. By focusing on these outcomes, RAFI reinforces its theory of change, which posits that targeted financial support and capacity building for underserved farmers will lead to a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable agricultural landscape.

This program provides funding for research aimed at improving watershed restoration practices to enhance water quality and habitat in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, targeting both non-profit and for-profit organizations that collaborate effectively.

This award recognizes and rewards Maryland landowners engaged in farming, ranching, or forestry who demonstrate exceptional voluntary conservation practices that enhance soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Maryland farmers and agricultural organizations for innovative practices that improve soil health and promote agroforestry initiatives.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and local governments in Maryland for non-construction projects that research, document, and promote the state's historic and cultural resources.

This program provides funding for projects that enhance Maryland's heritage and promote tourism within its certified heritage areas, supporting both nonprofit organizations and government entities in preserving local culture and boosting economic development.

This program provides funding to local governments, land trusts, and nonprofits to create and improve public greenspaces in underserved communities across Maryland, enhancing public health and livability.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, to enhance ecological restoration and conservation through tree planting and the protection of forested lands.

This grant provides funding to non-profits, schools, and government agencies to develop environmental education projects that empower students and communities to protect Chesapeake and coastal ecosystems.

This grant provides funding to local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to implement sustainable urban greening projects that improve stormwater management and enhance community green spaces.