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GEORGIA (WALB) - The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GNDR) is now accepting applications for wildlife viewing grants.

The program provides funding for projects that preserve or expand spaces intended to view wildlife or natural habitats. Since 2018, the program awarded over $120,000 to various projects across the state, including projects in Tifton and Albany.

Grants can fund facilities, improvements and initiatives that benefit wildlife viewing sites. Funding comes from the Georgia’s Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund.

In 2021, the program awarded $2,097 for repairs and the extension of a nature bord walk at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC). In 2025, Chehaw Park and Zoo was awarded $5,000 to develop a Head Start and educational program focused on the rare Gopher Frog.

GDNR Wildlife Conservation Chief Matt Elliott said this program creates a strategy for conserving nature before it becomes endangered.

“Wildlife viewing is a rapidly growing recreational activity, and Georgia is one of the best places to do it. We appreciate the chance to help provide folks more and different ways to experience our state’s biodiversity.”

Statistics from the GDNR show over 4.8 million Georgia residents took part in viewing activities in 2022. That’s 57% of Georgians age 16 and older.

The deadline to apply for a wildlife viewing grant is Feb. 4, 2026. Click here for an application and to learn more about the program.

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