The Southwest Rivers Headwaters Fund 2025, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals aimed at the restoration and preservation of riparian and aquatic habitats in the headwaters of the Colorado and Rio Grande rivers. This program, supported by federal and private partners, seeks to enhance habitats for critical species through ecosystem-oriented restoration and conservation measures. Up to $1.3 million is allocated for this funding cycle, with an estimated 6-10 awards expected. Projects focusing on both the Colorado River and Rio Grande Headwaters Focal Areas are eligible, emphasizing improvements for species such as the North American beaver, Rio Grande cutthroat trout, and the southwestern willow flycatcher. Proposals are due by November 7, 2024, through NFWF’s Easygrants system.

Key program goals involve addressing the leading factors contributing to species decline, such as habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and hydrological disruptions. Priority activities include wetland and riparian restoration, promoting water availability through leasing or acquisition of water rights, enhancing connectivity of aquatic species' habitats, and reintroducing focal species like beavers in compatible areas. To aid agricultural and conservation groups, the fund also supports capacity-building grants for organizations implementing restoration and technical assistance, especially for climate-smart practices among underserved communities in the southwest.

Eligible applicants for this program include U.S.-based local, state, tribal, and federal government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. Proposed projects must deliver measurable outcomes that align with NFWF's conservation goals. Ineligible entities include international organizations and for-profit businesses. Projects may not use funds for political activities, litigation, or equipment procurement from restricted vendors, among other prohibitions. The program requires a minimum 1:1 non-federal match, which can include cash, in-kind donations, or volunteer contributions.

Applications must clearly outline the project’s need, expected conservation outcomes, technical approach, and partnerships. Proposals will be evaluated on alignment with program goals, technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, community involvement, and long-term sustainability. Additional considerations include a project’s ability to contribute to broader conservation plans, spatial data accuracy, and adaptability to environmental changes. Funded projects should include a detailed monitoring plan and have the potential for replication or adaptation by other communities or programs.

Submission requires applicants to register and complete their applications in the NFWF’s Easygrants online system. Assistance is available through tip sheets, a recorded webinar, and direct support contacts at NFWF for both content and technical questions. Grant selections will be announced by March 2025 after a review period running from November 2024 to March 2025.

For more details, contact NFWF program managers Kirstin Neff, Ramsey Raslan, or Emma Wigger, or the Easygrants Helpdesk for technical assistance.