The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has awarded over $372,000 in grants to 11 projects focused on safeguarding Pennsylvania’s unique biodiversity, according to DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. The grants, distributed through the Wild Resource Conservation Program, aim to protect the state’s native plants, animals and their habitats.
“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,” Dunn said. The program focuses on three main categories: species surveys, conservation and management.
This year’s funded projects include initiatives to survey and enhance Pennsylvania’s fungal diversity, assess natural habitats for stream restoration and improve the health of threatened and endangered species. Further details about the projects can be found on the DCNR website.
Pennsylvania’s native wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, insects and plants, has benefited from the Wild Resource Conservation Program since 1982. The program aligns with the Shapiro administration’s commitment to environmental preservation. Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2024-25 budget reflects this commitment by including continued funding for conservation efforts, such as the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps program.
This local news story was reported with generative AI assistance.
