Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : September 14, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Jennifer Wykle, Wildlife Resources Section (304) 637-0245 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

DNR Accepting Applications for Cooperative and Research Grants Program

  The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Section is accepting applications for grants that support research, conservation or education projects.

  “These projects are designed to enhance our knowledge and protection of the state's nongame wildlife, native plants and natural habitats,” according to Curt is I. Taylor, Wildlife Resources Section Chief. Nongame wildlife includes species that are not typically taken for sport, fur or food. The application deadline is October 1.

  This grant program has two categories. One category funds projects that benefit nongame wildlife or botanical resources in some aspect of education, conservation, species protection, habitat management or enhancement. The second supports scientific research that will lead to increased knowledge about the population status or natural history of a species in greatest need of conservation, or greater understanding of the status of ecological communities.

  Nongame wildlife generally includes animals such as frogs, lizards, snakes, c ray fish, insects, songbirds and other species that comprise the basis of the food chains of all habitat types. Species diversity and ecosystem health affect forest resources. These are resources that people depend on for clean water, air, productive soils, as well as for raw materials.

  All formally organized clubs and organizations in West Virginia ; individuals affiliated with state or private colleges, universities, school systems, industry, research and other profit or non-profit organizations; federal, state or local government agencies; and private individuals are eligible to submit proposals. Full-time DNR employees may not apply for funding.

  “For many of these species, little is known about their distribution, life history and habitats in West Virginia . This is an important opportunity for the Wildlife Diversity and Natural Heritage Program to acquire much-needed data to help conserve and manage these species and their habitats,” said Taylor .

  To apply, contact the DNR to receive the Cooperative & Research Projects booklet and application forms. All proposals must be submitted or postmarked on or before October 1, 2005 . Contact Jennifer Wykle , the Research Grants Coordinator at (304)637-0245, or WVDNR PO Box 67, Elkins WV 26241 or jenniferwykle@wvdnr.gov to receive a booklet or if you have additional questions concerning the application process or the proposal acceptance criteria. You can also download the booklet at www.wvdnr.gov/Wildlife/ResCoopGrant.shtm .

**DNR**