Prairie Biotic Research Inc., a volunteer nonprofit based out of Wisconsin, is offering at least 100 grants, up to $1,000 each, to those seeking to do research in natural history and experimental sciences in prairie and savanna habitats. Any U.S. citizen with a social security card may apply for the grant, and special consideration will be given to independent researchers that lack institutional support, graduate students and those seeking to conduct research in Iowa and Wisconsin. Despite these special cases, the grants tend to be very inclusive, as previous winners have come from 30 states and have researched topics as varied as insects, plants, animals, reptiles, slime molds, mycorrhizal fungi, spiders, snails, amphibians, birds, invasive species, effects of management and the human dimensions of conservation.

To apply, you must fill out a proposal form, which you can find at Prairie Biotic’s website under the “Small Grants” section, along with additional information and previous proposal winners. Proposals must be received in the mail by January 6, 2013, which is less time than you may think! Get on it!