Want to restore and care for nature in your community? If you have a vision for improving water quality, creating fish and wildlife habitat, getting rid of weeds, or restoring nature in the Portland metropolitan area, a Metro Nature in Neighborhoods restoration grant can help get your idea off the ground. Join us for this free workshop where you can learn more about the application process, have your questions answered and meet others interested in this work.
Grants are available for individuals, community groups, businesses, neighborhoods, nonprofits, schools and school groups, government agencies, faith groups and service groups with nonprofit or other tax-exempt status. Metro grants specifically support projects that include communities of color in the design, development, implementation and future benefits of proposed projects.
Thanks to a 2013 parks and natural areas levy approved by the region’s voters, Metro expects to award about $200,000 in restoration grants this year.
Grant recipients from last year are busy helping plant native species at Ross Island, improve water quality and amphibian habitat in Willow Creek, and restore habitat at the Sandy River Delta for fish, migrating birds and turtles -- all while engaging local residents in being stewards of their local natural areas.
Metro grants also expand partnerships to inspire new approaches to volunteer restoration. This year, APANO, Columbia Land Trust and Audubon are working together with private landowners in the Jade District to increase community stewardship and improve habitat.
Grant projects must involve at least three partners and be completed within two years. Metro grant funding must be matched by other sources or through in-kind contributions, such as materials and volunteer work.
How to apply
Fill out a simple application HERE by May 16 for habitat restoration grants up to $50,000.
Need help? Resources to help you with your applications
Want to be inspired? In 2015, Metro awarded $600,000 to15 organizations for local restoration projects. Read more about the projects here or see examples of successful applications here.