The Wildlife Habitat Grant Program is an initiative managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) aimed at enhancing and improving wildlife habitat across the state. The program aligns with the goals outlined in the Wildlife Division’s strategic plan, specifically Goal 2 of the Guiding Principles and Strategies (GPS), which focuses on managing habitats to sustain wildlife populations in a changing environment. The program supports projects that contribute to habitat restoration, enhancement, or acquisition to benefit wildlife populations in Michigan.

The program provides financial assistance to a variety of applicants, including local, state, federal, and tribal governments, as well as for-profit and nonprofit organizations and individuals. Applications undergo an evaluation process based on predefined criteria detailed in the "Wildlife Habitat Grant Program" handbook. The selection process involves a review by the Department of Natural Resources staff, with final award decisions announced by the DNR Director.

To apply, applicants must submit a complete grant application along with all required documentation. Applications must be submitted through the MiGrants online system by the specified deadline. For 2024, the request for proposals (RFP) was released on January 31, and applications are due by March 18. Awards will be announced in the spring, and the project period begins upon execution of the grant agreement. Each project has a maximum duration of two years.

Funding for the program is generated from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses. Applicants can request a minimum grant amount of $15,000, while the maximum grant amount is determined by the total funds appropriated for the fiscal year, which is typically around $1 million. A minimum match of 10% is required, meaning applicants must contribute at least 10% of the total project cost from non-state funds.

Projects are assessed based on their potential to enhance wildlife habitats and their alignment with the program’s strategic goals. The evaluation criteria are outlined in the program handbook, which applicants are encouraged to review before applying. The authority for the program is established under Part 5 of Act 451, P.A. 1994, as amended.

For additional information, applicants can contact program representatives Clay Buchanan at 517-614-0918 or Chip Kosloski at 517-281-1705. Further details, including application materials and previous awardees, can be accessed in the Wildlife Habitat Grant Program handbooks available on the Michigan DNR website.