Small funds are available for studying the ecology, history, and use of the Greenbelt Forest Preserve. The Greenbelt Forest Preserve is a 255-acre preserve owned by the City of Greenbelt, Maryland. As established by City Code in 2003, the land is “preserved in a natural state for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.”  The City Council has established a fund to encourage research about the ecosystem and history of the Preserve, and improve stewardship of the Preserve.  The fund will be dispersed as reimbursable grants to researchers for certain types of expenses. Anyone can apply. Preference will be given to projects with outputs that enhance the ability of the city to manage the Preserve. Up to $2000 is available.

Projects might include:

• Studying the forest over time to document change;

• Surveying vegetation, invertebrate, or vertebrate animal populations;

• Mapping invasive species;

• Surveying stream aquatic life, water quality or pollution;

• Reviewing documents to trace the history of land use within the Preserve;

• Surveying attitudes about the Preserve from citizens/users;

• Studying the impact of adjacent land uses and land management practices on the Preserve; or

• Other ecological, social, or historical research.

See Sec. 12-159: City Code: https://www.greenbeltmd.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=7734

Request application from forestpreserve@greenbeltmd.gov