Virginia Land Conservation Foundation accepts applications for $13.5 million in land conservation grants

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The Virginia Land Conservation Foundation (VLCF) is accepting applications for $13.5 million in land conservation grants.

The foundation provides grants to support conservation for farmland preservation, forestland preservation, historic area preservation, natural area preservation, and open spaces and parks.

According to the foundation, a total of $16 million for fiscal year 2025 was approved in the state budget adopted in May. Of that amount, $4 million goes to the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, leaving $12 million in Virginia Land Conservation Foundation grants.

Another $1.5 million from interest and previously awarded VLCF projects that came in under budget or have been withdrawn was added to that amount. 

The foundation said the program provides 50-50 matching grants for localities and nonprofit conservation entities. State agencies and federally or state-recognized Indigenous tribes may receive 100%. 

The deadline to apply is 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 28.

A virtual workshop for potential applicants is planned. Details about the workshop, the grant manual and the application are posted on the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s website.