Grant Funding for Park Research
About the Friends of Steele Creek Park Research Grant
Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park has established a research support program to encourage research conducted at the park by students and other naturalists. Small grants are available each year on a competitive basis.
The Jon Harr Student Research Support Program honors the memory of Jon Harr, a longtime supporter of environmental education and stewardship at Steele Creek Park. Through this program, Friends of Steele Creek encourages meaningful student research and promotes scientific understanding of the park’s natural environment.
Grant Terms and Expectations
This annual small grant program supports original research projects that explore the park’s natural resources, ecosystems, or human-nature interactions. Proposals from middle school, high school, college, and graduate students are strongly encouraged, and all student applicants must work with an academic advisor.
Grant awards may be used for expendable supplies and durable equipment. Travel, salary, and conference costs are not typically covered.
Policy and Application for Grant Funding for Park Research
Grant Cycle Timeline
| Call for Proposals Opens | Aug 15 – Sep 15 | Application window opens to align with the start of the academic year. |
| Proposal Review Window | Sep 16 – Oct 14 | Committee evaluates proposals and selects awardees. |
| Award Notifications | Oct 15th | Applicants notified of approval/denial. Unfunded proposals receive feedback. |
| Rolling Application Window | Oct 16 – Dec 15 | First-come, first-served consideration if budget allows. |
| Project Research Window | Oct 15 – Apr 30 | Approved research takes place. Funding must be spent within 12 months. |
| Presentation & Final Report | May | Researchers deliver public presentations and submit written reports. |
| Archiving & Publication | June | Reports are posted online; published articles archived if applicable. |
Types of Research Encouraged at the Park
Student and independent researchers interested in conducting studies that enhance understanding, stewardship, or enjoyment of Steele Creek Park are encouraged to apply.
Funded research projects may include—but are not limited to—ecological surveys, environmental monitoring, behavioral studies, habitat assessments, or projects connecting people to nature.