Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has launched the Habitat Acquisition Grant 2026–27 to support long-term conservation of fish and wildlife habitats in British Columbia. Grants fund the acquisition of lands with high ecological value, public recreational access, and minimal infrastructure, with annual funding of approximately $500,000. Applications focus on large, ecologically important properties that strengthen landscape-level connectivity and conserve wetlands, grasslands, and other key habitats.
About the Habitat Acquisition Grant
The Habitat Acquisition Grant aims to secure high-value habitats for fish and wildlife in British Columbia. The program prioritizes land purchases that:
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Provide public access for fishing, hunting, and non-motorized outdoor recreation
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Conserve wetland, grassland, and other ecologically important habitats
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Include large properties supporting multiple fish and wildlife species
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Protect ungulate winter ranges and other areas identified as critical habitats
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Strengthen landscape-level connectivity with nearby protected areas, conservation lands, or Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
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Conserve intact ecosystems requiring minimal restoration
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Maintain minimal infrastructure, prioritizing conservation values where infrastructure exists
The program is part of HCTF’s ongoing efforts, which have contributed over $20 million toward the purchase of more than 150 conservation properties, securing approximately 24,000 hectares of valuable habitat.
Who Is Eligible?
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Applications are limited to fee simple land purchases in British Columbia
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Crown and public lands, including tenures such as trapping or guide outfitting, are not eligible
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Conservation covenants are no longer eligible
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Properties must demonstrate public access and conservation priorities
Funding Details
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Annual budget: $500,000
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Typical projects funded: 2–3 per year
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Funding may cover:
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Direct acquisition costs
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Initial management costs
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Property management endowment contributions
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Matched funding: Not required, but contributions from other funders are encouraged
Project Priorities
Eligible acquisition projects should focus on:
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Public access for recreation (fishing, hunting, non-motorized outdoor activities)
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Ecological value and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, and species habitats
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Large-scale properties with high biodiversity and connectivity potential
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Minimal infrastructure, with priority on conservation management
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Strengthening connections with existing protected areas or conservation lands
How to Apply / How It Works
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Identify Eligible Land
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Ensure the property meets ecological and recreational priorities
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Confirm the land is available for fee simple purchase
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Prepare Application
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Include clear conservation goals
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Describe public access provisions
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Detail any existing infrastructure and its management or removal plan
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Submit Application
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Applications are reviewed by the HCTF Board
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Funding decisions are based on ecological value, public access, and alignment with conservation priorities
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Grant Award and Project Management
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Successful projects receive funding for acquisition and initial management
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Ongoing management plans ensure conservation values are prioritized
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Proposing projects on Crown, public lands, or conservation covenants
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Failing to demonstrate public access for outdoor recreation
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Prioritizing infrastructure over conservation values
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Applying without a clear ecological benefit or connectivity plan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What types of land are eligible?
Fee simple private lands in British Columbia that support conservation priorities and public access.
2. Are Crown or public lands eligible?
No, these are not eligible under this program.
3. Is matched funding required?
No, but additional contributions from other funders are preferred.
4. How much funding is available per year?
Approximately $500,000 annually, typically funding 2–3 projects.
5. Can conservation covenants be funded?
No, conservation covenants are no longer eligible.
6. What must applications include?
Provisions for public access, ecological value assessment, and infrastructure management plans.
7. Does the program support initial management costs?
Yes, initial management and property management endowment contributions are eligible.
Conclusion
The Habitat Acquisition Grant 2026–27 offers a strategic opportunity to protect ecologically valuable lands in British Columbia while ensuring public access and recreation. By prioritizing connectivity, intact ecosystems, and minimal infrastructure, the program strengthens long-term conservation of fish and wildlife habitats, helping secure a sustainable future for the province’s natural resources.
For more information, visit Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
