Common Ground Grant Program

The Chaffee County Common Ground Grant Program is administered through a partnership between Chaffee County Community Foundation, Chaffee County, and the Chaffee County Citizens Advisory Committee. The program is designed to allocate public funds through a competitive grantmaking process that supports environmental resilience, agricultural sustainability, and responsible recreation management within Chaffee County. The initiative reflects a locally driven funding mechanism aligned with voter-approved priorities and county-level planning frameworks, emphasizing long-term stewardship of natural resources and community wellbeing. The primary purpose of the program is to fund projects that strengthen forest health, reduce wildfire risk, conserve agricultural lands, and manage the impacts of increasing outdoor recreation. These objectives are grounded in protecting water quality, enhancing wildlife habitat, and preserving the rural character of the region. The program supports both planning and implementation activities across multiple categories, including forest health, agriculture and rural landscapes, and recreation. Eligible projects may occur on both public and private lands, provided they demonstrate clear community benefit and alignment with county goals. Funding for the 2026 to 2027 cycle totals 450000 dollars and is distributed through competitive awards ranging from a minimum of 5000 dollars to a maximum of 100000 dollars. Most awards are expected to fall below 50000 dollars, with only a limited number exceeding that threshold and subject to more rigorous review. All funded projects must be completed within a single year, specifically between January and December 2027, as multi-year funding is not permitted in this cycle. While matching funds are not strictly required, strong preference is given to projects that leverage additional funding through cash or in-kind contributions, with higher preference for those exceeding a one-to-one match. Eligibility varies by funding category but generally includes government entities and nonprofit organizations with relevant expertise, particularly those recognized as IRS-certified 501c3 organizations. Certain categories, such as agricultural operations, also allow individual landowners engaged in active agricultural production to apply directly. Projects on public lands require demonstrated support from relevant land management agencies, while projects on private lands must show broader community value. All applicants must ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including land use codes and environmental review processes. The application process is conducted through an online grant portal and requires submission of a complete proposal, including a detailed project plan, timeline, and budget in a prescribed format. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes, alignment with program goals, and readiness to implement the project, including securing necessary permits and permissions. For larger requests exceeding 50000 dollars, applicants must also demonstrate prior experience managing projects of similar scope and scale. Additional application materials may include organizational documentation, evidence of partnerships, and supporting data. Applications for the 2026 to 2027 cycle open on July 20 and close on August 28 at 11:59 pm. Following submission, applications undergo staff review, followed by evaluation by the Citizens Advisory Committee, including potential site visits and multiple review meetings through the fall. Final funding recommendations are made in late November, with approval by the Board of County Commissioners in early December and notifications issued before the end of the year. Fund disbursement begins in January 2027 upon execution of grant agreements. Award recipients are required to complete biannual reporting throughout the grant period, with reports due in July 2027 and January 2028. These reports must document progress and outcomes, and failure to comply may impact eligibility for future funding. The program is expected to recur annually, following a similar summer application timeline and year-end award cycle, making it a consistent funding opportunity for organizations working in environmental conservation, agriculture, and recreation management within Chaffee County.

Align projects clearly with county plans and program goals; demonstrate measurable outcomes; leverage matching funds to strengthen competitiveness; ensure all permits and documentation are secured before submission