Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Rescue
Can you apply?
This grant is for California-based organizations and landowners seeking to restore monarch butterfly and pollinator habitats. Nonprofits, government agencies, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners on California property are eligible. Both prairie restoration and overwintering habitat projects qualify. Technical assistance is available to all grant recipients.
Activities must occur on private or public lands within California. Projects should focus on monarch breeding, overwintering, or related pollinator habitat. Restoration and enhancement work on existing or degraded sites is supported. Applicants should demonstrate land access and commitment to habitat protection.
This grant is for California-based organizations and landowners seeking to restore monarch butterfly and pollinator habitats. Nonprofits, government agencies, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners on California property are eligible. Both prairie restoration and overwintering habitat projects qualify. Technical assistance is available to all grant recipients.
Activities must occur on private or public lands within California. Projects should focus on monarch breeding, overwintering, or related pollinator habitat. Restoration and enhancement work on existing or degraded sites is supported. Applicants should demonstrate land access and commitment to habitat protection.
Program description
Eligible activities under this program include: Provide grants for the restoration or enhancement of California prairie and other appropriate breeding habitat for monarch butterflies and pollinators on private and public lands. Provide grants for the restoration or enhancement of overwintering monarch butterfly habitat on private and public lands. Provide technical assistance to grant recipients, including farmers and ranchers, regarding restoration and enhancement of breeding, overwintering, and other appropriate monarch butterfly habitat.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for California-based organizations and landowners seeking to restore monarch butterfly and pollinator habitats. Nonprofits, government agencies, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners on California property are eligible. Both prairie restoration and overwintering habitat projects qualify. Technical assistance is available to all grant recipients.
Activities must occur on private or public lands within California. Projects should focus on monarch breeding, overwintering, or related pollinator habitat. Restoration and enhancement work on existing or degraded sites is supported. Applicants should demonstrate land access and commitment to habitat protection.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Application form (California Wildlife Conservation Board specific form)
- Project narrative and restoration plan
- Budget and budget justification
- Site maps and photographs
- Land access documentation or agreements
- Proof of nonprofit status (if applicable)
Program contact
- 📧 scott.mcfarlin@wildlife.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-217-6345
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 7 | 1 | 14% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Nonprofits, government agencies, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners with California property can apply. Both private and public land projects are eligible.
What types of projects are funded?
Grants support restoration and enhancement of monarch breeding habitat, overwintering sites, and prairie habitat. Projects benefit both monarchs and other pollinators.
Is there a deadline?
This program uses rolling acceptance. Deadlines and application windows are not fixed; check with the Wildlife Conservation Board for current timelines.
How much funding can we receive?
Award amounts are not specified in the program details. Contact the Wildlife Conservation Board for typical grant ranges and funding limits.
Do I need to provide matching funds?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant. You do not need to match or contribute additional funding.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact the Wildlife Conservation Board early to clarify current deadlines and application windows for rolling programs.
- Document existing habitat conditions and land access agreements before applying. Site photos and maps strengthen proposals.
- Emphasize long-term maintenance plans and how your project benefits both monarchs and other native pollinators.
- Connect your project to California's climate and conservation priorities. Habitat restoration aligns with state environmental goals.
- Leverage technical assistance offered by the program. Work with the agency to refine your restoration approach before final submission.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications lack specific habitat restoration timelines or maintenance commitments. Proposals underestimate project costs or omit detailed budget justification. Applicants fail to demonstrate secure land access or long-term stewardship capacity.
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