Press release by Lancaster Conservancy on 29 May 2026

Now Accepting Proposals

Applications are due July 1, 2026

Lancaster Conservancy and its partners are excited to announce that they are accepting applications through July 1 for the 2026 Susquehanna Riverlands Conservation Landscape (SRCL) Mini-Grant Program. This program provides small competitive grants, ranging from $2,500 to $25,000, towards projects that advance the SRCL mission.

The SRCL is a collaboration of communities and organizations working to protect land, steward natural and cultural resources, connect people with natural spaces, and promote sustainable economic development. Susquehanna Riverlands, which includes municipalities along the Susquehanna River in Lancaster and York counties, is one of eight conservation landscapes in Pennsylvania where partners work together to protect natural assets and improve quality of life for community members.

Are you proposing or working on a public-facing project in the SRCL that will improve habitat/trail connectivity, promote sustainable river access, benefit ecosystem health, or facilitate community partnership/collaboration?

If yes, consider applying for a 2026 Mini-Grant! Among the many potential project ideas is funding to assist with hiring a consultant for professional services – including planning – before applying for a bigger implementation grant, interpretive or wayfinding signage, or accessibility improvements.

Two grant applications for the work of one!

This year, they are again partnering with the Lancaster Clean Water Partners, who manage the Clean Water Fund, to streamline application questions and timelines. Organizations with projects that may be a good fit for BOTH the Clean Water Fund and the Susquehanna Riverlands Mini-Grant programs can now more easily apply to both! Check out the info session recording or read their joint info sheet to learn more! 

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Jenn Teson Pitts at jteson@lancasterconservancy.org to discuss their project before applying.

Mini-grant funding is financed by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, Environmental Stewardship Fund, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. Mini-grants may not be used as a match for other DCNR-funded projects.

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