The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) has announced the availability of up to $10 million in funding for Forest Legacy Grants.
These grants aim to conserve and protect environmentally significant privately-owned forestland across the state.
This initiative is part of California’s broader effort to conserve working forests, prevent their conversion to non-forest uses, promote sustainable and resilient forest practices, and encourage long-term stewardship.
These efforts align with the objectives of the California Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force.
The Forest Legacy Grant program operates on a competitive basis, offering funding to purchase or accept donations of conservation easements or fee titles from willing sellers.
This approach is designed to facilitate the long-term conservation of productive forest lands throughout California.
The application process involves a two-part system: an initial pre-application submission, followed by a full application for those who are successfully shortlisted.
The pre-application period runs from March 18, 2024, to April 16, 2024, with invitations for full applications sent out by May 7, 2024.
Full applications must be submitted by June 7, 2024, and will include a mandatory field visit by CalFire staff.
The Forest Legacy Grants, funded through the Budget Act of 2023, play a crucial role in preserving forests for future generations and contributing to California’s climate and carbon goals.
The protection afforded by these grants ensures continued benefits from the state’s forests, including wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, watershed protection, and support for sustainable wood product economies.
All projects funded under this grant must be completed by June 30, 2028, ensuring a focused and timely approach to forest conservation.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s latest funding initiative through the Forest Legacy Grants is a strategic move towards conserving California’s forestlands.
By providing substantial financial resources to protect privately-owned forests, California aims to maintain its natural landscapes and support the sustainability and resilience of forest practices.
This effort show the state’s commitment to environmental conservation and the critical role of forests in addressing climate change, preserving biodiversity, and sustaining local economies.
