Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program
This grant offers up to $1,000,000 for tribes, local governments, and nonprofits to acquire and conserve threatened forest land in Michigan and Wisconsin’s Lake Superior Basin, supporting community and habitat benefits.
Funder: Forest Service
Due Dates: December 8, 2026: Full application deadline — submit all application materials through Grants.gov by 11:59PM Eastern Time on December 8, 2026.
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per award; estimated total program funding $3,500,000; 4–6 awards expected; 2-year project period.
Summary: Supports the acquisition of private forest lands in Michigan and Wisconsin's Lake Superior Basin to establish community forests that enhance habitat connectivity, public access, and community benefits.
Key Information: 50% non-federal cost share required; land must be at least 75% forested, 5+ acres, and within the designated pilot area.
Description
This grant opportunity, administered by the USDA Forest Service under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, provides funding for the fee simple acquisition of private forest land within specified areas of Michigan and Wisconsin's Lake Superior Basin. The primary aim is to establish community forests that protect lands threatened by conversion to non-forest uses, enhance habitat connectivity for native species, and provide substantial community benefits such as recreation, education, and economic development. Projects must ensure public access and demonstrate meaningful community engagement and strategic conservation value within the Terrestrial Habitat Connectivity Pilot Area.
