The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program grant period is open. This is a competitive grant program through the USDA Forest Service whereby local governments, qualified nonprofit organizations and Native American tribes are eligible for grants to establish community forests through fee simple acquisition of private forest land from a willing seller.
The purpose of the Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program is to establish community forests by protecting forest land from conversion to non-forest uses. These community forests offer a diversity of benefits, including sustainable forest management opportunities, environmental services including clean air, water and wildlife habitat, forest-based educational programs, serving as models of effective forest stewardship and recreational opportunities for the public.
Wisconsin success story: Last year’s awarded projects included the Tyler Forks Community Forest, a 590 acre preserve in the Penokee Hills near Copper Falls State Park.
Read below for key details of the application period and review the full grant announcement for more information.
- Eligible applicants: Local governments, tribes, qualified non-profits
- Match: 50/50 match requirement of total project cost
- Award: Not to exceed $600,000
- Grant period: 2 years
- Due date: January 6, 2020