State Natural Resources Grants

The Effectiveness Monitoring Committee (EMC) is seeking project proposals that: (1)   Address one or more of the EMC’s Research Themes and Critical Monitoring Questions and; (2)   Address natural resource protection issues that are important for California forestlands. The critical monitoring questions are organized under 12 Research Themes. Four prioritized critical questions were determined by vote amongst the current EMC members at the beginning of each calendar year:  Are the FPRs and associated regulations effective in...  Question 1h: managing WLPZs to reduce or minimize potential fire behavior and rate of spread? Question 6c:  managing fuel loads, vegetation patterns and fuel breaks for fire hazard reduction? Question 6d: managing forest structure and stocking standards to promote wildfire resilience? Question 12a: improving overall forest wildfire resilience and the ability of forests to respond to climate change (e.g., in response to drought or bark beetle; reducing plant water stress) and variability, and extreme weather events (evaluate ecosystem functional response to fuel reduction and forest health treatments)? I.       FUNDING AVAILABILITY. Funding available for newly proposed projects is anticipated as follows: $973,392 over three FYs beginning in 2024/25, comprising: $173,232 in FY 2024/25; $375,160 in FY 2025/26; and $425,000 in FY 2025/26. II.     AWARD LIMITATIONS. Applicants requesting more than the stated annual amount available for funding will not be considered. In the case that EMC funding for the full three years is awarded to one new project, project solicitation may not occur in the subsequent two FYs. While the EMC may choose to fund projects that span multiple FYs up to the annual funding cap, the EMC generally prefers to fund multiple research projects annually. Proposers should keep this in mind when developing their project and annual budget requests. Longer-term projects (greater than three years) may re-apply for funding for additional years through the competitive grants process advertised in the EMC’s Request for Proposals. Annual allocations are dependent upon demonstrated progress towards project completion pursuant to the project schedule and workplan.  a.      ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES. Eligible projects will test one or more specific FPRs or other rule or regulation under the Board’s jurisdiction and which addresses one or more of the EMC’s Research Themes and Critical Monitoring Questions. Proposed projects must clearly apply to management activities on private timberlands in California. Projects on public land may be eligible for EMC funding provided they clearly apply to the activities and systems that also exist on non-federal timberland. b.      ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS. Eligible applicants are local, state, and federal agencies including federal land management agencies; institutions of higher education; special purpose districts (e.g., public utilities districts, fire districts, conservation districts, and ports); Native American tribes; private landowners; for-profit entities; and non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations.

The Urban Forestry Catastrophic Storm Grants program, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to support the repair, removal, or replacement of trees within urban areas that have been damaged by catastrophic storm events. A catastrophic storm is defined as damage to urban forests caused by snow, ice, hail, wind, or tornado, for which the governor has declared a state of emergency. This grant is not for damage resulting from insect infestation, disease, forest fire, drought, or flooding. The program's core objective is to aid communities in recovering and restoring their urban forests after severe weather. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are cities, villages, towns, counties, tribes, and 501(c)(3) organizations in Wisconsin that have experienced damage to their urban forests as a direct result of a declared catastrophic storm event. Private property owners are not eligible for this funding. A key eligibility criterion is that the urban forest damage must have occurred in an area with a minimum of 100 residents per square mile, as determined by the Wisconsin Demographic Services Center based on U.S. Census Bureau data. The impact goal is to assist these eligible entities in mitigating the visual, ecological, and safety hazards posed by storm-damaged trees, thereby contributing to the resilience and health of urban environments. The grant prioritizes costs directly related to damaged tree repair, removal, or replacement within the geographic area covered by the state of emergency. Eligible costs include regular wages and fringe benefits for personnel working on tree-related tasks, as well as expenses for services, supplies, equipment, or facilities used for these activities. Overtime costs are not eligible, and any costs reimbursed by other funding sources, such as federal disaster assistance or insurance, are also excluded. The focus is on documented, reasonable, and necessary expenditures directly stemming from the catastrophic storm. Expected outcomes include the restoration of damaged urban tree canopies, improved public safety through the removal of hazardous trees, and the enhancement of urban environmental quality. Measurable results would involve the number of trees repaired, removed, or replaced, the total acreage of urban forest impacted by grant activities, and the financial investment made in urban forest recovery efforts. The grant's duration is one year, with individual grants ranging from $4,000 to $50,000, providing immediate support for post-storm recovery.

The Monterey Peninsula Foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations to benefit the community within specific focus areas: arts & culture, community & environment, education, health & human services, and youth. This aligns with the Foundation's mission to address the community's most pressing and unmet needs by fostering creative responses and building local support for essential services. The Foundation's strategic approach emphasizes identifying and funding initiatives that demonstrate strong management capacity, clear project evaluation plans, and a commitment to collaboration among service providers. The target beneficiaries of these grants are residents of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties, served by eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, public K-12 schools, and public agencies. The impact goals are centered around providing quality services and programs, supporting important community resources, and strengthening infrastructure across whole communities. The Foundation seeks to achieve measurable results through robust project evaluation and outcome measurement, ensuring that funded initiatives effectively address identified community needs. The Foundation prioritizes applications that offer innovative solutions and show promise for sustained local support. They look for organizations with a broad base of funding support, indicating community engagement and financial stability. Their theory of change is rooted in empowering effective organizations to deliver impactful services and build resilient communities. Exceptions to the one-grant-per-applicant rule are considered for emergencies or one-time significant community-wide benefits, highlighting the Foundation's responsiveness to critical needs. The types of support offered include operating support, program support, and capital support, providing flexibility for organizations to deliver services, run programs, or invest in infrastructure. The grant period for a single-year grant is October 1 to May 31 (8 months). The Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that uphold principles of non-discrimination and financial accountability, excluding funding for activities solely promoting religious doctrine, academic research, endowments, fundraising campaigns, political purposes, or organizations that have been in operation for less than three years.

This grant provides funding for projects in California that utilize tire-derived aggregate for various applications, such as retaining walls, stormwater management, and landfill enhancements, aimed at promoting sustainable waste tire recycling.

This program provides funding to various organizations and individuals in New York State for forestry projects that promote environmental sustainability and improve forest health.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is accepting grant applications for the Land and Water Conservation Fund program until September 13, 2024. The program provides 50 percent reimbursement to selected outdoor recreation projects sponsored by political subdivisions and other public agencies. Eligible projects include the development and/or acquisition of outdoor facilities for public recreation. Applications will be reviewed for eligibility according to the LWCF guidelines and the 2021 Kansas Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). Applications should include all required documentation and meet the needs identified in the 2021 Kansas Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). A checklist is included to ensure project sponsors have met all requirements. Incomplete or late applications will result in withdrawal from funding consideration. Federal Standard Forms (SF-424) for Budget Information and Compliance Assurance are also required.

The Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program (WFLGP) WFLGP program [PDF] is a cost share program offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is designed to assist woodland owners in protecting and enhancing their woodlands. This program reimburses woodland owners up to 50% of the cost of eligible practices. Grant amounts are based on the type of project and number of acres to be completed.

The District of Columbia Department of Human Services (DHS), Family Services Administration (FSA), is offering a grant for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to provide Emergency Shelter and Supportive Services, Non-residential Counseling and Case Management, and Education and Outreach. This grant aligns with the federal Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) state grant, which DHS administers in partnership with the DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCCADV). The program's mission is to prevent incidents of family, domestic, and dating violence, and to provide comprehensive support for survivors and their dependents. This directly aligns with the broader goal of fostering community safety and well-being by addressing the root causes and immediate needs related to violence. The target beneficiaries of this grant are survivors of family violence, domestic violence, or dating violence, and their dependents. This includes children exposed to violence, underserved populations, and victims from racial and ethnic minority populations. The impact goals are to provide immediate shelter and supportive services, offer access to community-based programs, and deliver specialized services that address the unique needs of vulnerable groups. The program aims to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals and families impacted by violence, enabling them to heal and rebuild their lives. The grant prioritizes three key categories: Shelter and Supportive Services, Non-residential Counseling and Case Management, and Education and Outreach. The funding allocation reflects these priorities, with the largest portion dedicated to Shelter and Supportive Services ($567,522.20), followed by equal amounts for Non-residential Counseling and Case Management ($101,343.25) and Education and Outreach ($101,343.25). These categories are designed to provide a holistic approach to addressing violence, from immediate crisis intervention to long-term prevention and recovery. The strategic priorities are to establish, maintain, and expand programs that effectively prevent violence and support survivors. Expected outcomes include a reduction in incidents of family, domestic, and dating violence, increased access to immediate shelter and supportive services for survivors, and enhanced community-based programs. Measurable results would involve tracking the number of individuals served, the duration of shelter provided, the utilization of counseling and case management services, and the reach of education and outreach initiatives. The theory of change posits that by providing comprehensive and culturally appropriate services, the program can empower survivors, prevent future violence, and foster safer communities for all. The total estimated program award funding for this grant is $770,209.00, with an award period from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. Eligibility criteria specify that entities must be a local public agency or a nonprofit private organization (including faith-based, charitable, community-based, tribal, and voluntary associations) with a documented history of effective work concerning family, domestic, or dating violence. Partnerships of two or more agencies or organizations, including one with the described experience and another with a demonstrated history of serving populations with culturally appropriate services, are also eligible.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities, schools, nonprofits, and volunteer groups in Michigan for projects that improve urban forestry, such as tree planting, management plans, and educational initiatives.

The FY25 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program is a $5 million fund aimed at helping fire departments across the Commonwealth purchase essential safety equipment that meets NFPA and OSHA standards, with applications open from September 19 to October 17, 2024.

The Regional Site Readiness Program’s Planning Grant, funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, offers $100,000 to $500,000 to local governments, economic development organizations, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and private landowners for planning and due diligence activities aimed at preparing industrial and manufacturing sites for future development across all counties in Illinois.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is offering grants to local governments and Soil and Water Conservation Districts to assist in the initial planning of non-agricultural nonpoint source water quality improvement projects. The grants are also available for regulated MS4 Operators for mapping. The program supports projects like upgrading wastewater treatment systems and streambank stabilization. Applicants seeking planning grants for wastewater treatment systems should refer to the NYS DEC/EFC Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant Program. The program also focuses on projects affecting environmental justice and disadvantaged communities, and includes a variety of eligible report categories such as green infrastructure, stormwater retrofits, and stream culvert repair.

This funding opportunity provides $5 million each to two eligible regions in New York State to improve school food infrastructure, promote local farm products in school meals, and support workforce development in related fields.

The Renewable Resource Grant and Loan Program (RRGL) is designed to support the conservation, management, development, and preservation of Montana's renewable resources. The program offers funding primarily for public facility projects like water, wastewater, and solid waste development, as well as projects related to irrigation rehabilitation, dam repair, and forest enhancement. Eligible applicants are divisions of state government, tribal governments, and other local political subdivisions, with funding available in the form of grants or loans for feasibility studies, construction plans, and implementation efforts.

Project WINGS is an innovative program aimed at transforming electrical and gas transmission rights-of-ways into vibrant wildlife habitats within Georgia. By providing cash grants of up to $1,500 over three years, along with professional wildlife management advice, the program encourages landowners, leaseholders, hunting clubs, wildlife organizations, and government entities to manage these corridors for the benefit of both non-game and game species. Eligible rights-of-ways include those under Georgia Power, Georgia Transmission, MEAG Power, Savannah Electric, and AGL Resources. Common practices supported by the program include chemical control of exotic plants, planting of annual or perennial plants, and encouraging native vegetation through disking or mowing. Applications for the program are accepted annually from May 15 through July 15 at Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) offices. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: May 15th to July 15th.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to county governments in Kern and Los Angeles Counties for training programs that prepare workers to safely cap abandoned oil wells, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

This grant provides funding to public agencies for the development and improvement of boat launching facilities, including ramps and parking areas, to enhance access for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities in New York State for developing or expanding food scraps recycling programs to promote sustainable waste management and reduce landfill waste.

The Budget Act of 2022 (Senate Bill 178, Skinner) and Government Code section 12100.140 et seq. established an Export Training program within GO-Biz. The program is one-time funding for competitive grants to service providers to develop or scale export training programs and curricula. Respondents to this Request for Proposal (“RFP”) must demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and ability to provide such training. The key purpose of this program is to fund export training programming that supports California small business owners, provides access to export services for underserved businesses, advances immigrant integration and supports immigrant entrepreneurs, and includes training programs in languages other than English wherever possible. Additionally, this program may consider funding export training programs that are aimed at developing an export-capable workforce should there be sufficient program funding. Organizations are strongly encouraged to collaborate on applications and to utilize each other's resources effectively. Program Objectives:• Equip new-to-export businesses with comprehensive knowledge of global markets and essential international trade knowledge.• Provide ongoing assistance to current exporters, aiding them in sustaining and broadening their presence in foreign markets.• Cultivate a fresh cohort of businesses eligible for the California State Trade Expansion Program, preparing for participation in export promotion activities, including trade shows.

This program provides no-interest or low-interest loans to municipalities in Illinois for the cleanup of contaminated sites that have already been assessed and have an approved remediation plan.