NFWF Awards $3.6 Million in Grants Through Walmart's Acres for America Program
On December 15, 2025, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) announced the allocation of $3.6 million in grants through its Acres for America program, a significant partnership with Walmart (WMT). This funding is set to protect over 145,000 acres of vital wildlife habitat across five states, bolstering a total conservation impact of $59.6 million when combined with $56 million in matching funds from public and private sources.
Acres for America: A Model of Conservation
The Acres for America initiative has been a driving force in landscape conservation in the United States for more than two decades. This program not only aids in the conservation of vital wildlife habitats but also enhances public access to outdoor recreation. The projects funded by these grants promise substantial benefits for local communities and regional economies.
“For more than 20 years, Acres for America has been a cornerstone of landscape-scale conservation in the United States,” stated Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. “These projects sustain and enhance wildlife populations while also creating opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and other types of outdoor recreation.”
Key Projects Funded This Year
This year’s funding supports a diverse range of projects aimed at preserving essential wildlife habitats across the nation:
- Florida: The Alachua Conservation Trust will conserve a 4,636-acre tract within the Lochloosa Wildlife Corridor, connecting over 87,000 acres of previously protected land.
- Maine: Partnerships including the Forest Society of Maine will protect 78,000 acres of forestland that supports crucial wildlife habitats and migratory routes.
- Michigan: Collaborators will conserve an 8,850-acre privately owned forest, ensuring sustainable management of its timber and wildlife.
- North Carolina: The Foothills Conservancy will work to secure 12,000 acres of mountainous forestland, enhancing public access and water quality protection.
Walmart's Commitment to Conservation
The Acres for America program was launched in 2005 when Walmart made a ten-year, $34.5 million commitment to conserving wildlife habitats. The initiative has since exceeded expectations, leading to the protection of over 2 million acres across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
“Acres for America was built on the idea that conserving diverse, high-value landscapes benefits both wildlife and communities,” said Hunter Hart, Senior Vice President of Walmart Realty. “This year’s projects demonstrate how large-scale conservation works, delivering lasting environmental and recreational value for future generations.”
Impact of the Program
Over the past 21 years, the NFWF has funded 131 projects through the Acres for America program, leveraging Walmart's $73 million investment into a conservation impact exceeding $1 billion. This partnership reflects a significant commitment by Walmart (WMT) to sustainability and community enhancement.
For additional details on the grants awarded under the Acres for America program, visit the official NFWF page.
About the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Chartered by Congress in 1984, the NFWF is the nation’s largest conservation foundation, dedicated to sustaining, restoring, and enhancing the nation’s natural resources for future generations. To date, NFWF has funded over 23,300 projects resulting in a conservation impact of $11.3 billion.
About Walmart
Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a leading omnichannel retailer focused on helping consumers save money and live better. In fiscal year 2025, Walmart reported revenue of $681 billion and employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. The company continues to prioritize sustainability and community involvement aimed at enhancing people's lives.