Building Wildlife Research Capacity in Montana
GrantID: 8424
Grant Funding Amount Low: $30,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Wildlife Habitat Research Initiative in Montana
Montana's vast natural landscapes are home to diverse wildlife habitats, but climate change and human activity pose serious threats to these ecosystems. A recent report from the Montana Department of Natural Resources indicates that many of Montana's critical wildlife habitats are already experiencing shifts due to changing climate conditions, threatening the balance of local biodiversity. This situation creates an urgent need for focused research to understand these challenges and inform relevant policies.
Local researchers and early-career scientists in Montana face significant barriers in accessing funding for wildlife studies. Many young professionals are motivated to address the pressing environmental issues but lack the resources necessary to conduct impactful research. Additionally, there is a noticeable gap in support for researchers transitioning into conservation biology, as established funding mechanisms often overlook early-career initiatives in the context of wildlife research.
The Wildlife Habitat Research Initiative addresses these prevalent barriers by providing targeted funding for research that emphasizes the identification and preservation of critical wildlife habitats in Montana. This program is designed to support young scientists looking to collaborate with local wildlife agencies and conservation organizations, ensuring that their findings contribute directly to habitat conservation strategies at both state and federal levels.
Eligible candidates for this initiative include early-career researchers and assistant professors whose work aligns with the objectives of identifying and conserving key wildlife habitats impacted by climate change. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with established wildlife agencies in Montana, such as the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department, to enhance the applicability and reach of their research findings. The funding aims to include multiple facets of wildlife research, from habitat assessment to species monitoring, with a focus on producing actionable insights.
The initiative aims to yield outcomes that are critical for the conservation of Montana's unique wildlife ecosystems. By empowering new research efforts, the program seeks to produce data that informs land-use policies and wildlife conservation strategies relevant to Montana's diverse landscapes, which include grasslands, forests, and mountainous regions.
These outcomes are vital for Montana, as the state’s economy heavily relies on its natural resources and outdoor recreation. Research findings will not only support conservation measures but also enhance the state's reputation for preserving its natural heritage. By collaborating with local stakeholders and focusing on evidence-based strategies, the Wildlife Habitat Research Initiative fosters a renewed commitment to conserving Montana's biodiversity amidst the challenges of climate change, ultimately safeguarding the landscapes that define this state.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
