Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today announced the award of more than $372,000 to 11 projects dedicated to protecting Pennsylvania’s native biodiversity.

“Protecting our vulnerable species from climate change, human development, and other threats is a priority, and the Wild Resource Conservation Program plays a key role in achieving this goal,” said Secretary Dunn.

Administered by DCNR, the Wild Resource Conservation Program works to safeguard the Commonwealth’s non-game animals, native plants, and their habitats. Grants are awarded in three categories: species surveys, conservation, and management.

The 2024 grant round includes projects aimed at growing and surveying Pennsylvania’s fungal diversity to assessing natural habitats for stream restoration and improving threatened and endangered wildlife, flora, and fauna. For more details on the specific projects, visit DCNR’s website.

Established in 1982, the Wild Resource Conservation Program supports research and protection efforts for Pennsylvania’s diverse native wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and plants. Pennsylvanians can contribute to the program through the Eastern Hellbender license plate or via the tax check-off program.