Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the application deadline?
The application must be received electronically by November 30 at 11:59:59 p.m.

2. How often are the grants distributed?
The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grants are distributed once per year.

3. When will I receive the money?
This grant is awarded on a reimbursement basis. Notification is made to the winners about February 1. Your school or organization must spend the money, and then submit the proper paperwork to receive reimbursement.

4. Can I use the money to plant a vegetable garden?
No. The funds may only be used to develop or enhance wildlife habitat.

5. I want to include some educational signs as part of my project. Do they qualify for funding?
No. Signs are not eligible for funding through this grant. Sign components do not qualify for funding, either.

6. If I am awarded a grant, can I apply again for more funding in subsequent years?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of times you can apply for the grant.

7. The weather conditions did not allow us to proceed as planned with our project. What should we do?
Contact the IDNR Division of Education at 217-524-4126 or dnr.teachkids@illinois.gov with any questions that you have regarding changes in the project. All changes to the project as proposed in the application form must be approved in advance by the IDNR Division of Education.

8. The plants that we want to purchase are now at a reduced cost. Can we buy more of them than originally planned?
Contact the IDNR Division of Education at 217-524-4126 or dnr.teachkids@illinois.gov with any questions that you have regarding changes in the project. All changes to the project as proposed in the application form must be approved in advance by the IDNR Division of Education.

9. We are going to have funds remaining from the grant award. Can we buy some items that were not in the original budget?
No.

10. What is the time frame for spending the funds?
The project must be completed and the final paperwork submitted by November 30 of the calendar year in which the funds are awarded.

11. I teach in a college. Am I eligible to apply for the grant funds?
No. The funds are only available to teachers, nature center personnel and youth group leaders for students of prekindergarten through grade 12.

12. Must we use native plants? We’d like to plant some tulips and rose bushes.
Native plants must be used. They are the best providers of native wildlife habitat and are adapted to the climate so they require the least care.