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Nominations open: Priority U.S. Trees Conservation Awards

Deadline: 15-Apr-2026

The Priority U.S. Trees Conservation Awards provides grants of $3,000–$10,000 to U.S.-based institutions for the collection and propagation of threatened tree species. The program targets underrepresented taxa, encourages data sharing, and promotes adherence to best plant conservation practices over an 18-month project period. Eligible organizations include non-profits, government bodies, and educational institutions.

Overview

The Priority U.S. Trees Conservation Awards support U.S. institutions in protecting at-risk tree species. The program focuses on increasing the representation of priority taxa—species found in five or fewer ex situ collections—through collection, propagation, and collaboration among conservation organizations.

The initiative emphasizes biodiversity preservation, adherence to best plant conservation practices, and data sharing to improve long-term survival outcomes for threatened trees.

Key Partners

The program is delivered through a collaboration of leading conservation organizations:

  • ArbNet
  • Botanic Gardens Conservation International-US (BGCI-US)
  • The Morton Arboretum
  • NatureServe
  • United States Botanic Garden

These partners collectively strengthen conservation strategies and ensure standardized practices across funded projects.

Funding Details

  • Award Amounts: USD $3,000–$10,000 per project
  • Project Scope: Must involve at least three priority taxa
  • Purpose: Support collection and propagation efforts for designated tree species

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Non-profit organizations
  • Government agencies at local, state, or federal levels
  • Educational institutions

Ineligible applicants:

  • Individual researchers
  • Private entities not classified as non-profits

Projects must focus exclusively on priority U.S. tree taxa. Collection permits must be secured before applying.

How the Program Works

  1. Identify Priority Taxa: Select species underrepresented in ex situ collections (found in five or fewer collections).
  2. Prepare Collection Permits: Submit required documentation before applying.
  3. Submit Application: Include project plan detailing collection, propagation, and data-sharing strategies.
  4. Grant Award and Project Duration: Successful projects receive funding for an 18-month period.
  5. Follow Conservation Standards:
    • Use best practices for species survival in the wild
    • Share data with state botanists
    • Accession collections formally and upload to the BGCI Plant Search database

Why It Matters

  • Enhances the survival of threatened tree species in the U.S.
  • Increases genetic diversity in managed collections
  • Promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing among conservation organizations
  • Strengthens national efforts to safeguard biodiversity

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without necessary collection permits
  • Proposing projects that focus on non-priority taxa
  • Failing to plan for data sharing or accessioning collections
  • Underestimating the 18-month project timeline

FAQ

1. What are “priority taxa”?
Priority taxa are threatened U.S. tree species that are underrepresented in ex situ collections, typically found in five or fewer collections nationwide.

2. Can individuals apply for this grant?
No, only U.S.-based institutions such as non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions are eligible.

3. How long is the funded project period?
Each awarded project has a duration of 18 months from the date the grant is received.

4. What are the key requirements for funded projects?
Projects must follow best conservation practices, share data with state botanists, and ensure all collections are formally accessioned and uploaded to the BGCI Plant Search database.

5. How much funding can be requested?
Grants range from $3,000 to $10,000, supporting projects involving at least three priority tree taxa.

6. Is collaboration with other institutions required?
While not mandatory, collaboration is strongly encouraged to improve conservation outcomes and data sharing.

7. Are collection permits required before applying?
Yes, all necessary permits must be submitted prior to application.

How to Apply

  1. Confirm eligibility of your organization
  2. Identify priority U.S. tree taxa for your project
  3. Obtain all necessary collection permits
  4. Prepare a detailed project plan including collection, propagation, and data-sharing strategies
  5. Submit the grant application through the program portal
  6. Upon approval, implement the project according to the 18-month timeline, ensuring compliance with conservation standards

Conclusion

The Priority U.S. Trees Conservation Awards provides crucial funding to protect threatened tree species while promoting collaboration, standardized conservation practices, and data sharing. Institutions can strengthen biodiversity preservation in the U.S. by applying for these grants and following best practices to ensure long-term species survival.

For more information, visit ArbNet.