The Boulder County Strategic Fuels Mitigation Grant (SFMG) Program is designed to support strategic forest management and fire mitigation projects across Boulder County. Administered by Boulder County, this grant program seeks to mitigate wildfire risk by funding targeted fuel reduction projects in areas critical for community safety, watershed protection, and forest resilience.
The Spring 2024 awards reflect the program’s commitment to community-based projects that leverage partnerships and matching resources. Funding is awarded for projects that address critical water sources, high-risk communities, egress routes, and forest health, prioritizing locations that align with Boulder County’s Fireshed Focus Areas and POD (Potential Operational Delineations) boundaries.
Three major projects funded in Spring 2024 include the Arapaho Ranch Project, the Raymond/Riverside Fuels Reduction Project, and the Roaring Fork Forest Restoration Project. Each project brings together multiple partners and secures substantial matching contributions from sources such as Colorado State Forest Service grants, environmental foundations, private landowners, and federal programs like EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program).
Grants require applicants to provide matching funds, either through direct funding or in-kind contributions. All projects emphasize community safety, ecological resilience, and the protection of critical water infrastructure. Though the exact future application timelines are not outlined in the provided document, the structure indicates recurring rounds and continuing program support for new projects based on strategic priorities.
Questions regarding the program should be directed to Boulder County representatives, and full project reporting is expected to demonstrate outcomes and effectiveness in reducing wildfire risks and promoting long-term forest health.
