The Illinois Native Plant Society has announced its 2020 Research Grant and Survey Grant Programs.

Students, citizen scientists, conservation groups and institutions are alerted to consider applying for a grant ranging from $500-$1500 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, as well as research on threats to native plants and communities, such as invasive species. Laboratory research as well as projects focused on research relating to education about or restoration of native plants and plant communities will be considered. Projects involving student research or volunteers will be given special consideration. All projects must demonstrate how they support the mission of the Illinois Native Plant Society.

Applications must be received by January 31, 2020. Awards will be announced by March 31, 2020.

INPS is also excited to initiate a new, second grant program this year: the Survey Grant Program. This grant up to $1500 will fund searches for Illinois Endangered, Threatened or Rare species for which current data is inadequate to assess their status and for which field surveys and recovery recommendations are needed. INPS is working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to develop a priority list for the surveys. Experienced botanical field surveyors, either independent or associated with an institution, are invited to apply for this grant. Partnerships are encouraged. Interested parties should watch the INPS website for the December on-line launch of full application details and deadlines/timelines.

INPS is grateful to be able to expand its Grant Programs this year thanks to contributions from membership fees, generous donations to the Grant Programs, proceeds from the Annual Gathering, and support from the Central Chapter for a grant conducting studies within the Central counties.

To learn more about the Illinois Native Plant Society and for details about the grant application process, click here