State offers opportunity to support wildlife
Funds support monitoring efforts of several endangered species, including the Eastern hellbender.
File photo
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission invites 2025 North Carolina taxpayers to donate all or part of their state tax refund to the N.C. Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Fund. Donations support research and conservation projects for the state’s most vulnerable wildlife.
“Funds donated through the tax-checkoff program are matched by federal grants for species of greatest conservation need,” said Dr. Sara Schweitzer, assistant chief of NCWRC’s Wildlife Management Division. “A $100 donation is matched by $186 in grant funding, significantly expanding conservation efforts across the state.”
In Western North Carolina, donations will help address impacts from Hurricane Helene on species such as the Eastern hellbender, bog turtle, gray bat, Carolina northern flying squirrel and high-elevation migratory birds. Funds also support surveys, monitoring and habitat restoration for rare species statewide, including in drought-impacted Sandhills areas.
Taxpayers can participate by checking Line 30 on their state income tax form or selecting the fund in online tax software. Those without a refund may donate directly through the N.C. Wildlife Diversity Endowment Fund.
