Got a plan to revitalize or protect a wildlife habitat near you? Sitka wants to help.
The Bozeman, Mont., brand today sent out a call for applications to its Ecosystems Grant Program, a measure with a broad, environmentalist focus.
Successful applicants, Sitka said in a press release, will seek to “improve the state and function of an ecosystem through habitat restoration, biodiversity, conservation and working landscapes, while also supporting the growth of the hunting experience through access, education, and mentorship.”
The initiative has run at Sitka since 2019. You can find stories of previous successes on its website — for example, 2022 awardee Five Oaks Ag Research and Education Center. In short, the facility empowers young people interested in waterfowl habitat management by providing resources from on-site training to university scholarships.
Lindsey Davis, Sitka Gear’s new director of conservation and advocacy, leads the Ecosystems Grant Program this year. Her advocacy background includes representing constituencies including ranchers, farmers, underserved communities, native tribes, education institutions, businesses, and policy experts, the company said.
“Sitka’s focus on prioritizing whole ecosystems stands out not only in the hunting space, but in the outdoor industry as a whole. Our newly refined program pillars and priorities will allow Sitka to continue to make an impact in protecting wildlife and its habitats, while also ensuring the future of hunting and building new partnerships in the conservation arena,” said Davis.
The company did not elaborate on the stated refinement — nonetheless, the application window is open now. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $20,000, according to the online portal. Restrictions are generally few. Among them, grantees must be 18 or older and reside in either the U.S. or Canada.
Happy hunting.