Working Forest Initiative (ForestsWork)
The Working Forest Initiative (ForestsWork) from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs supports science-based forest stewardship, habitat, and climate planning for Massachusetts landowners and municipalities.
Funder: Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Due Dates: Rolling (first-come, first-served basis; applications accepted year-round until funds are exhausted)
Funding Amounts: Private landowners: $500–$700 (Foresters for the Birds) + $1,140+ (Stewardship Plan) depending on acreage; Municipalities: $1,000–$40,000 (Community Woodland Grant, 75/25 match)
Summary: Supports Massachusetts woodland owners and municipalities with technical and financial assistance for forest stewardship, bird habitat, and climate planning.
Key Information: Minimum 10 acres of woodland required for private landowners; funding is limited and awarded until depleted.
Description
The Working Forest Initiative (ForestsWork) provides a suite of cost-share and technical assistance programs to help private woodland owners and municipalities in Massachusetts manage their forests for ecological, economic, and recreational benefits. Programs include the Forest Stewardship Program, Foresters for the Birds (bird habitat assessment), Climate Forestry, and the Community Woodland Grant for municipalities. The initiative is designed to maximize forest health, wildlife habitat, climate resilience, and long-term stewardship through the development of professional management plans and targeted habitat or outreach projects.
