The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Watchable Wildlife Grant Program. Established in 2021 and funded through proceeds from the state’s Wild on Washington: Bald Eagle license plate sales, this program supports the development and promotion of wildlife viewing opportunities across Washington State. The grant seeks to foster stewardship of Washington’s natural environment by encouraging the public to engage with wildlife in meaningful and accessible ways.

This funding opportunity is open from April 1, 2025, through May 30, 2025, with applications due by 11:59 PM Pacific Time. An optional virtual information session was held on April 3, and a recording will be posted in the FAQ section of the program’s webpage. Projects must take place on publicly accessible lands and should promote opportunities for communities to view, learn about, and engage with wildlife. Special consideration will be given to projects co-developed with or led by underserved or marginalized communities and those that incorporate equity and justice values.

Eligible applicants include individuals, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools and universities, local and county governments, and federally recognized tribes. WDFW employees are not eligible. The grant may not be used for habitat restoration as a primary focus, data-driven community science, overhead administrative costs (e.g., salaries or facility rent), or projects located outside of Washington State. Funding may be used for project-specific contracted work and transportation expenses.

The total grant pool for this cycle is $30,000. Each award must request a minimum of $5,000, and up to the full amount may be requested, though partial funding is possible. Funded projects must be completed, and all associated costs incurred and invoiced, by June 25, 2027. Projects must demonstrate clear deliverables and may include such examples as interpretive signage, accessible wildlife viewing structures, education programs, community bird walks, or the development of wildlife viewing trails.

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF, including all required responses and supplemental materials such as budgets, maps, and supporting images. Proposals are reviewed competitively between June and July, with funding decisions announced by mid-August. Grants are reimbursement-based, and funding will be distributed following project completion and verification. For additional questions or application submission, applicants should contact Kelsey Hansen, Watchable Wildlife Coordinator, at kelsey.hansen@dfw.wa.gov or 360-890-0544.