Revitalizing Northern Great Plains Grasslands and Longleaf Pine Forests

The Bezos Earth Fund’s $60 million grant to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) supports the restoration of two of the most biodiverse and imperiled U.S. landscapes: the Northern Great Plains grasslands and longleaf pine forests of the Southeast. 

In 2024-2026 the partnership funds 80–100 local projects that implement conservation practices to revive areas affected by habitat loss, climate pressures, and land-use change.

By working closely with farmers, ranchers, and local restoration groups, the grant focuses on sustainable land management practices such as prescribed burning, sustainable grazing, and planting native trees and grasses. 

These efforts enhance habitats for species like the black-footed ferret, gopher tortoise, and red-cockaded woodpecker, while supporting safe wildlife corridors for migrating pronghorns and mule deer.

Additionally, more than 1,250 private landowners are receiving technical assistance to develop land management plans, adopt restoration practices, and access financial resources. 

Altogether, this work will restore and improve management on 1.6 million acres across the Northern Great Plains and longleaf pine forests, with the goal of sequestering 7–10 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent over the next 30 years, advancing biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.