Georgia DNR launches new grant program to protect historic battlefield land

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia Department of Natural Resources has launched a new grant initiative aimed at preserving Georgia’s historic battlefield lands.

The Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund Program will provide matching grants to eligible nonprofit organizations and state agencies for the acquisition and permanent protection of qualifying battlefield properties throughout the state.

According to DNR, eligible sites include battlefields identified in historic preservation reports from the National Park Service and the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission.

The state-funded program will offer annual funding cycles on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on available funding. Grants may cover up to 50% of the appraised value of eligible land acquisitions or conservation easements.

Applicants must provide a dollar-for-dollar funding match through cash contributions, donated land value or other approved sources.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations focused on historic land preservation and state agencies dedicated to protecting historical, cultural or natural resources.

Applications must be submitted through DNR’s online grants portal.