Call for 2026 Local Conservation Fund projects now open

Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP), which works in partnership with both the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) and the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) to administer the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund (CVLCF), and the RDCK Local Conservation Fund (RDCK LCF), is now accepting applications for 2026 projects.

Applications can be submitted by non-profit organizations and Indigenous nations for projects within the participating areas. Eligible areas in the Columbia Valley are shown here. In the RDCK, projects must take place within Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, or H.

Community groups and individuals can partner with an eligible organization to apply. The deadline for applications is 4:30 p.m. PT on October 31, 2025. If you have a new project idea, it is highly recommended that you contact KCP’s Local Conservation Fund Manager prior to submitting an application to discuss your project idea.

To learn more about the LCF and how to apply please visit https://kootenayconservation.ca/local-conservation-funds/#LCF. For phone or email inquiries, contact KCP Interim Program Director Kendal Benesh at 1.844.775.2722 ext. 203 or kendal@kootenayconservation.ca.

NEW for 2026: In preparation for the annual call for proposals, we hosted a special information session for Local Conservation Fund applicants on September 9. This short webinar was recorded, and is a great opportunity to learn more about Local Conservation Funds in your area, how they work, and what you need to apply for funding. You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/GW9gDsias1w

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Kendal Benesh
Interim Program Director
Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP)
kendal@kootenayconservation.ca