Forest Legacy Grants
Forest Legacy Grants from CAL FIRE fund scientific project development and due diligence to conserve California’s threatened working forests and forested landscapes.
Funder: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Forest Legacy Program Capacity and Project Development) | October 13, 2026 (Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program)
Funding Amounts: $500,000 total; individual awards range from $50,000 to $150,000; project period through June 30, 2028.
Summary: Supports capacity-building and project development for conserving California’s working forests and forested landscapes at risk of conversion.
Key Information: Funding is for project preparation and due diligence only; not for easement or land acquisition.
Description
The Forest Legacy Grants, administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), are designed to protect environmentally important forest lands in California that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses. This solicitation specifically supports organizational capacity-building and the preparation and development of high-quality forest conservation projects, including due diligence activities required for future acquisition of conservation easements or fee title. Funding is not for land acquisition itself, but for developing projects that will later compete for federal or state Forest Legacy funds. The program aims to ensure long-term conservation of California’s forests, maintain sustainable timber production, wildlife habitat, recreation, watershed protection, and carbon sequestration.
