California Forest Improvement Program

The California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) is administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and is designed to encourage investment in the management and improvement of forest lands across the state. The program is part of California Climate Investments, a broader statewide initiative funded through Cap and Trade revenues aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while supporting economic development, public health, and environmental quality. CFIP also receives funding from additional state and federal sources, which may introduce varying requirements depending on the funding stream used for a specific project. The primary purpose of CFIP is to promote sustainable forest management practices that enhance the productivity, resilience, and ecological health of California forest lands. The program seeks to ensure a reliable supply of high quality timber, support related employment opportunities, and protect and enhance forest ecosystems for future generations. Beyond timber production, the program emphasizes improvements to wildlife habitat, soil stability, and water quality, reflecting a comprehensive approach to forest resource stewardship. CFIP provides cost share assistance to eligible landowners, including both private and public ownerships with forest holdings ranging from 20 to 5000 acres. The program supports a wide range of forest management activities under the supervision of a Registered Professional Forester. Eligible activities include preparation of forest management plans, reforestation, site preparation, tree planting, installation of tree shelters, stand improvement practices such as thinning and pruning, and follow up treatments including mechanical or herbicide interventions. The program also supports conservation practices that improve fish and wildlife habitat. However, certain activities are explicitly excluded, including broadcast or controlled burning, along with other practices outlined in the CFIP User Guide. Applications are submitted through a structured process that requires coordination with a Forestry Assistance Specialist assigned to the geographic region of the proposed project. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with the specialist prior to submission to confirm eligibility, funding availability, and application requirements. The application package includes multiple required forms such as the CFIP application, agreement documents, project budget, environmental checklist, and supporting documentation. Only the most current versions of these forms are accepted, and submissions using outdated materials are rejected. CFIP operates on a recurring solicitation cycle with multiple application deadlines throughout the year. Solicitation periods close on January 2, April 1, and October 1. Applications are reviewed and scored at the local level before being considered for funding. Projects are ranked competitively, and funding is awarded to the highest scoring proposals until the available funds for the solicitation period are exhausted. Applications that are not funded may be carried forward to the next solicitation cycle, but those that fail to secure funding after one year are returned to the applicant with feedback. Each solicitation period may release up to two million dollars in funding, though the exact number of awards varies based on project size and available funds. The program does not specify a fixed award ceiling or floor, as funding is determined by project scope and cost share calculations. There is no explicit match requirement stated, though the cost share structure implies that applicants contribute a portion of project costs. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the program via email or work directly with their assigned Forestry Assistance Specialist.

Contact your Forestry Assistance Specialist early to confirm eligibility and funding availability; ensure all forms are the newest versions as outdated submissions are rejected