Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding
The Forest Legacy Program offers competitive grants to help states and partners permanently protect private forest lands from development through conservation easements or land purchases, supporting public benefits and traditional forest uses.
Funder: Forest Service
Due Dates: September 11, 2026 (Full application) | September 21, 2026 (Forest Service internal review)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000,000 per project; minimum $5,000; typical award period is two years; estimated 12 awards.
Summary: Supports State Lead Agencies in permanently protecting privately owned forestlands threatened by conversion, through conservation easements or land purchases.
Description
The Forest Legacy Program (FLP), administered by the USDA Forest Service, provides competitive grants to State Lead Agencies for the permanent conservation of privately owned forest lands that are environmentally important and threatened by conversion to non-forest uses. The program aims to maintain traditional forest uses and public benefits such as wildlife habitat, clean water, recreation, and timber production by funding conservation easements or land acquisitions. Projects must align with state priorities as described in each State Forest Action Plan and demonstrate significant economic, environmental, and social benefits.
