The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering the Highlands Conservation Act - Base Funding Round, a federal grant opportunity aimed at supporting land conservation projects in the Highlands Region, which includes Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants, specifically the Lead State Agencies designated by each state's Governor, may request funding for up to 50% of the total cost of land conservation initiatives that protect high-value natural resources. This program is crucial for the permanent protection of land and resources in the Highlands, with an estimated total program funding of $5,850,000, and individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $1,462,500. Interested parties should submit their applications electronically by December 31, 2024, and can contact Jay Rasku at jason_rasku@fws.gov for further information.