San Diego River Conservancy’s Directed Grant Program
San Diego River Conservancy’s Directed Grant Program supports local organizations’ conservation, restoration, and public access projects to protect river resources and strengthen climate and wildfire resilience.
Funder: San Diego River Conservancy
Due Dates: Rolling (Directed Grant concepts) | July 11, 2025 (Prop 4 Round 1) | April 30, 2027 (Prop 4 Round 2) | April 27, 2029 (Prop 4 Round 3)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2,000,000 per proposal; awards subject to state funding availability
Summary: Supports multi-benefit conservation, habitat restoration, public access, and climate, wildfire, and forest resilience projects.
Key Information: Contact the Conservancy before submitting a concept proposal; full applications are by invitation.
Description
The San Diego River Conservancy’s Directed Grant Program funds local assistance projects that protect and enhance river resources while providing environmental and community benefits. Funding approved through the Budget Act of 2021–22 supports land acquisition and conservation, resource protection, nature-based solutions, native habitat creation or restoration, recreation, public access, and climate, wildfire, and forest resilience.
The program seeks multi-benefit projects that improve watershed health, water quality, wildlife habitat and corridors, and public enjoyment of open space. Other goals include reducing flood and fire risk, removing invasive plants, completing the San Diego River Trail, and preserving cultural, Tribal, and historical resources. The Conservancy’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan guides project selection. Its April 2025 guidelines also address Proposition 4 funding for wildfire resilience, biodiversity protection, nature-based climate solutions, and increased public access.
