Illinois Native Plant Society 2022 Grants Announced

Research Grant and Survey Grant

Students, citizen scientists, and conservation groups are invited to consider applying for an INPS Research Grant for up to $2500 to fund one-year projects. The grant is for research-focused studies on Illinois native plants such as life history, reproductive biology, demography, genetics, comparative site inventories, community ecology; research on threats to native plants and communities, such as invasive species, are acceptable. Laboratory research on native plants, as well as projects focused on research relating to education about or restoration of native plants or communities, will be considered. Projects involving student research or trained volunteers will be given special consideration. All projects must demonstrate how they support the mission of the Illinois Native Plant Society.

INPS is also pleased to continue its new second grant for 2022: the Survey Grant. This grant for up to $5000 will fund searches for Illinois Endangered, Threatened or several rare plant species for which current data is inadequate to assess their status and for which field surveys and recovery recommendations are needed. INPS worked with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to develop a priority list of species for the surveys. Experienced botanical field surveyors, either independent or associated with an institution, are invited to apply for this grant. Partnerships are encouraged.

Full application details and forms for the Research Grant and the Survey Grant will be posted on-line by late November. Check our website at https://www.illinoisplants.org/grants/

Applications must be received by January 31, 2022. Awards will be announced by March 31, 2022.

INPS is grateful to be able to continue its grant program in 2022, thanks to contributions from membership fees, generous donations to the Grant Program, proceeds from the Annual Gathering, and also support from the INPS Central Chapter for one grant conducting studies within the Central Illinois counties.